Following outrage from social conservatives like hate group leader Tony Perkins of the Family Research Council and anti-gay military crusader Elaine Donnelly, the Chief of Navy Chaplains Rear Admiral Mark Tidd has (likely temporarily) revoked guidance it issued allowing ue of base facilities for same-sex marriages in states where it is legal, and allowing Navy chaplains to perform such services.
Despite the decision, military officials said Tuesday night that the Defense Department may still eventually permit gay troops to use military chapels in states that recognize homosexual marriages for same-sex weddings after President Obama lifts the ban on openly gay service members known as “don't ask, don't tell.”
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Tidd said he issued the revised guidance after chaplains asked about same-sex marriage ceremonies during mandatory training sessions about the end of “don't ask, don't tell.”
But he reversed course late Tuesday, saying he was suspending his guidance “pending additional legal and policy review” and closer coordination with the Army, Air Force and Coast Guard.
Servicemembers Legal Defense Network released a statement in support of Tidd's earlier decision, saying it was entirely consistent with the administration's position on DOMA.
Expect this to be addressed at today's meeting of the House Armed Services Committee, along with the amendments from the GOP which hope to derail repeal efforts.
More on that to come but you can get caught up below.
Previously…
GOP Proposes Amendment to 'DADT' Repeal to 'Protect' Religious Homophobes [tr]
GOP Serves Anti-Gay 'DADT' Amendments to House Defense Panel [tr]
