DOD DADT Repeal Report - Do It!

“Based on all we saw and heard, our assessment is that, when coupled with the prompt implementation of the recommendations we offer below, the risk of repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell to overall military effectiveness is low. We conclude that, while a repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell will likely, in the short term, bring about some limited and isolated disruption to unit cohesion and retention, we do not believe this disruption will be widespread or long-lasting, and can be adequately addressed by the recommendations we offer below. Longer term, with a continued and sustained commitment to core values of leadership, professionalism, and respect for all, we are convinced that the U.S. military can adjust and accommodate this change, just as it has others in history...

We recommend that, in a post-repeal environment, gay and lesbian Service members be treated under the same general principles of military equal opportunity policy that apply to all Service members. Under the Military Equal Opportunity program, it is DoD policy to
“[p]romote an environment free from personal, social, or institutional barriers that prevent Service members from rising to the highest level or responsibility possible. Service members shall be evaluated only on individual merit, fitness, and capability.” This policy goes hand-in-hand with Service-level policies and basic military values that call for treating every military member with dignity and respect.”

Report of the Comprehensive Review of the Issues Associated with a Repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" - Department of Defense General Counsel, the Honorable Jeh Charles Johnson; and Commanding General US Army Europe & The Seventh Army, General Carter F. Ham - excerpts from chapter 1 - Executive Summary, November 30, 2010.