The Pentagon has recently announced that hundreds of veterans who were dismissed from the U.S. military under the now-repealed “don’t ask, don’t tell” (DADT) policy have received honorable discharges after a yearlong review. This policy, in effect from February 1994 to September 2011, prohibited openly gay and lesbian individuals from serving in the military and resulted in the discharge of over 13,000 service members.
Christa A. Specht, a legal policy director at the Defense Department, indicated that while most of those discharged had been honorably separated, approximately 2,000 received less than fully honorable characterizations.
Following the repeal of DADT, former service members who were discharged due to their sexual orientation could appeal for an upgrade to an honorable discharge, allowing them access to full military benefits. However, many affected individuals were not aware of their eligibility to appeal.
To address this issue, the Defense Department initiated a “proactive review” of cases involving those discharged under DADT. This review aimed to ensure that veterans were informed about their options and to rectify past injustices.
Pentagon Upgrades Discharges for Hundreds of Veterans Affected by “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” Policy
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin reported that over the past year, 851 cases were proactively reviewed, with an impressive 96.8% qualifying for “relief.” In total, more than 800 veterans are now recognized with an honorable discharge.
Austin emphasized the bravery of LGBTQ+ Americans who have served the country and noted that under President Biden’s leadership, significant steps have been taken to correct the wrongs inflicted by DADT and similar policies.
The announcement follows the Pentagon’s commitment to conduct a thorough review of discharges related to DADT. The policy not only led to the discharge of service members but also impacted a larger legacy of discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals in the military.
From World War II until 2011, historians estimate that around 100,000 service members were forced out of the military because of their actual or perceived sexuality, highlighting a long history of exclusion.
The Pentagon’s recent actions reflect a broader effort to address and rectify the injustices faced by LGBTQ+ veterans. With nearly 96% of those previously discharged under DADT now receiving honorable discharges, this initiative marks a significant step towards acknowledging their service and sacrifices, offering a measure of closure and recognition for many who were unfairly treated.
