Congress repeals “don’t ask, don’t tell”

And so ends the 17-year-old “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy as the Congress voted 65-31 in favour of allowing gays and lesbians to serve openly in the US military.

President Obama vowed during the 2008 election campaign to end the ban, which he denounced as unfair, unwise and a violation of basic human rights.

The bill went through despite Republican attempts to erect procedural roadblocks to delay the vote.

More than 13,000 men and women have been expelled from service under “don’t ask, don’t tell,” which allowed gays to join up as long as they kept their sexual orientation secret.

Opponents of the move argue that lifting the ban will undermine order and discipline and harm unit unity.

Once the bill is signed the Pentagon will have time to educate service members and prepare for the policy change.

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