The Beginning of the End

The Senate Armed Services Committee voted Thursday to end "don't ask, don't tell," the controversial policy barring openly gay men and lesbians from serving in the military.

The measure, which passed 16 to 12, includes a provision ensuring that no change would take effect until after the Pentagon completes a study about its impact on troops, due to Congress Dec. 1.

The House was scheduled to vote late Thursday or Friday on an identical measure. Lawmakers there expect it to be approved, and the full Senate would vote on it next month.

The provision, which lawmakers are attaching to a $726 billion defense funding bill, would take effect only if the Defense Department study determines that changing the policy would not affect the military's ability to fight wars or recruit soldiers. ...

"We believe changing a major social policy in the middle of two wars would be a mistake and distraction," said American Legion National Commander Clarence E. Hill.

Duane J. Miskulin, national commander of AMVETS, said Congress should wait to act until after the Pentagon completes its study of how to implement a repeal. "We can't simply overturn 'don't ask, don't tell' and deal with any unintended consequences after the fact while trying to fight two wars," Miskulin said. ~ By Perry Bacon Jr. and Ed O'Keefe Washington Post Staff Writer Thursday, May 27, 2010; 6:57 PM

You know what I think? I think those soldiers fighting in those two wars have seen so much more horror and have such bigger issues to deal with right now that who the person waiting back home for their buddy is really ain't gonna matter. These straight men and women aren't children playing dress-up or Elliot Ness and Al Capone in the backyard. The are soldiers. Grown and all. And have more to worry about right now than if the guy at their back or the woman at the wheel is gay or straight. Stop using them as an excuse to not do what's right. Trust me, they don't need your protection nearly as much as you wish they did.

Those are Pobble Thoughts. That and a buck fifty will get you coffee.

Addendum: The House has voted to repeal. And shame on you, John McCain.