A DADT question

[TexasProgresive]

-prior to DADT was there a law that prevented gays from serving in the armed forces or was it just some sort of policy?

Clinton wanted to open the way for gays to serve and this was the best he could get. So with DADT repealed can the armed forces go back to the way things were pre-DADT?

I posted this as a reply in GD, but had 2nd thoughts that it might get a better answer here. Thanks.

[MineralMan]

1. Prior to DADT, it was a policy, and part of the UCMJ. DADT was a

poorly-designed attempt to counter that policy. The repeal makes it very clear that GLBT members of the military have equal status. There is no way to go back to the previous policies.

[DURHAM D]

2. Yes - there was a rule.

In fact - there was a box to check.

Just a reminder, DADT was originally designed to allow homosexuals to serve under structured conditions. Originally the bill was called Don't Ask, Don't Tell, Don't Pursue, Don't Harass.

The military used/abused/misused the provisions to their own ends. For that reason I remain concerned about the way forward as I am not aware of any affirming language that states "Gays and Lesbians MUST be allowed to serve openly in the military".

In short, I don't trust the military. Right now with Gates and Mullen we have good leadership. Gates will retire soon. I am worried about future brass and entrenched homophobia and fear they might reset to policy prior to 1993 - not necessarily wholesale but selectively.