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Historic Overturn of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” Could Impact Veterans

"Don't Ask Don't Tell," which was the law banning gays from openly serving in the military, is no longer in effect. The law was first passed in 1993 and forced gays to keep their sexual orientation private or risk being separated from the military, which for some, became a veterans disability issue.

CBS News reports officials from the Pentagon have given every assurance their ability to wage wars and recruit will not be affected by the repeal. Had that been a valid concern, the repeal may never had been possible.

Soldiers have been reminded to "treat each other fairly." The transition is not expected to be as difficult as previously believed as more than 95% of the military has already "undergone training in the new law." The military is ready for the repeal, and has been accepting applications for service from recruits that are openly gay. Those applications, however, could not have been processed prior to the law's repeal.

All "pending investigations, discharges and other administrative proceedings" that were being processed under the Don't Ask Don't Tell law have been brought to a halt. Although people will no longer be discharged due to their sexual orientation, the military's complete ban on public displays of affection will remain in effect for every soldier.

If you are a disabled veteran who has been denied disability compensation or have not yet applied for benefits from the VA, a South Florida disability attorney from LaVan & Neidenberg is ready to help. To learn if you are entitled to certain programs and benefits contact our veterans disability rights firm today - 1-888-234-5758.