Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy
Here's some additional information on the changes to "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" expected to be outlined today by Defense Secretary Robert Gates, according to the AP:
"Guidelines to be announced Thursday call for testimony from third parties to be given under oath. The discharge of enlisted personnel must be approved by officers who hold a rank equivalent to a one-star general or above, according to military and defense officials familiar with the plan… The goal is to ensure that the law is applied fairly and consistently across the military and that flimsy testimony from third parties is eliminated, the officials said. The plan is considered a stopgap measure until Congress decides whether to repeal the 1993 law…Gay rights groups say the plan to require high-level scrutiny for discharges under 'don't ask, don't tell' is a step in the right direction but add that Congress must still act to lift the ban.'Service members would still be leaving the services under 'don't ask, don't tell' every day, so what we need is repeal,' said Aubrey Sarvis, executive director, Servicemembers Legal Defense Fund."
Rachel Maddow reported on the changes and what they might mean for discharged service members Victor Fehrenbach, Mike Almy, and Dan Choi, who have appeared on her show.
Watch Rachel's segment, AFTER THE JUMP…
