WASHINGTON -- Marines Corpswide are attending training for the repeal of “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” and have been since February. Though the repeal was signed by the president, the law is still in effect until 60 days after the repeal is certified.
According to a Pentagon spokesperson, most of the Marine Corps should be trained by May 31. Training Department of Defense -wide will be tailored to individual services in accordance to their mission and core values.
“Service members are being informed of the change in policy and expectations for behavior,” said a Pentagon spokesperson. “Members involved in certain functions such as administrative, legal and investigative may receive additional training focused on specific changes to their specialty. A clear focus on leadership, professionalism, discipline and respect will enable this change in policy to be executed with minimal disruption to the force."
The changes apply to Marines in both active duty and reserve components, and all will be expected to uphold the core values of honor, courage and commitment, as well as dignity and respect regardless of sexual orientation.
“As we implement repeal, leaders at all levels will reemphasize the importance of maintaining dignity and respect for one another throughout our force,” said Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. James F. Amos. “We are Marines. We care for one another and respect the rights of all who wear this uniform. We will continue to demonstrate to the American people that discipline and fidelity, which have been the hallmarks of the United States Marine Corps for more than 235 years, will continue well into the future.”