Ros-Lehtinen Press Release On 'Don't Ask Don't Tell'

Republican Ileana Ros-Lehtinen issued a statement for repealing "Don't Ask Don't Tell."

Ros-Lehtinen Supports Repeal of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' Policy

(WASHINGTON) - U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Ranking Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said today that she will support the repeal of the U.S. Defense Department's Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy which bars gays and lesbians from serving in the military. Statement of Ros-Lehtinen:

"Since the policy was announced 15 years ago, thousands of talented men and women, some with critically important skills, have been drummed out of military service. Many more continue to serve with distinction, contributing greatly to the defense of our country. But they are never free from the fear that their careers and lives could be ruined for reasons that have nothing to do with how well they do their job.

We've wasted a great deal of time and effort trying to enforce this failed policy. At a time when our armed forces are under unprecedented strain, we should welcome all those, regardless of sexual orientation, who ask nothing more than to serve their country."

Ros-Lehtinen is taking a position unpopular in her party. Good for her.