HD37 Dems: Fwd: UPDATE: Don't Ask, Don't Tell

----- Forwarded Message -----
From: "Mark Udall" <info@udallforcolorado.com>
To: "Vorry Moon" <vcmoon@comcast.net>
Sent: Thursday, March 18, 2010 2:59:17 PM GMT -07:00 US/Canada Mountain
Subject: UPDATE: Don't Ask, Don't Tell

Dear Vorry,

I wanted to send you a quick update on my efforts to repeal the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" (DADT) law. The Senate Armed Services Committee, on which I sit, is continuing to hold hearings to figure out the best way to implement repeal.

But I know we still have to convince my colleagues to vote to end DADT, and that repealing the outmoded law is in our national security interests. That's why I published an op-ed yesterday, detailing why we must repeal DADT.

Below is an excerpt:

This month, America enters our eighth year of fighting simultaneous wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Our troops have carried an enormous burden with honor and professionalism. We owe each and every one of them our gratitude.

Many have spent multiple tours of duty in combat. Despite the need for trained and dedicated individuals willing to serve, since 9-11, at least 5,800 service members have been discharged simply because of their sexual orientation. Doing so has damaged our military readiness and placed our troops under unnecessary strain.

One way to reduce this strain and make our country safer is to repeal the current ban, known as "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," which prevents gay service members from openly serving in our armed forces. That's why I have joined other Senators in the introduction of legislation to repeal this ban. While our legislation would repeal the law this year, it also would ensure that the Pentagon continues its ongoing review to determine the best methods for implementing the repeal.

I hope you'll read the entire piece by clicking here.

And if you haven't yet, please sign our petition urging members of Congress to repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell."

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,