This policy, which lasted from 1993 to 2011, barred LGBTQ service members from serving openly and resulted in the discharge of thousands who revealed their sexual orientation.
The announcement is part of broader government efforts to address decades of discrimination. The issue traces back to 1951, when Article 125 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice criminalized consensual same-sex activity. In 1993, former President Bill Clinton’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy allowed LGBTQ personnel to serve as long as they kept their sexual orientation private. It wasn’t until 2011 that Congress fully repealed the policy, enabling open service for LGBTQ members, and in 2013, the UCMJ was revised to decriminalize consensual same-sex relationships, limiting Article 125 to nonconsensual acts.
This recent upgrade of discharges follows a review initiated by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin last year. The Pentagon estimates that around 13,500 service members were discharged under “don’t ask, don’t tell,” with many receiving less-than-honorable discharges that affected their military benefits and civilian job prospects. Now, 96% of those affected have received honorable discharges.
Not all of the 13,500 cases required review; some individuals had already been discharged, others served insufficient time for benefits, and some were ineligible for upgrades due to other violations. Defense Secretary Austin emphasized the Pentagon’s dedication to honoring all who have served, stating, “We will continue to honor the service and the sacrifice of all our troops, including the brave Americans who raised their hands to serve but were turned away because of whom they love.”
This decision also aligns with President Joe Biden’s recent pardons for service members convicted under repealed military policies, highlighting ongoing efforts to rectify historical injustices.
