West Point alums react to 'don't ask, don't tell' repeal

After President Barack Obama signed into law Wednesday a bill that repeals the ban on gays in the military, some West Point graduates are heralding the about-face as a civil rights victory. Knights Out,

News 12 Staff

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May 22, 2014, 7:22 PM

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Updated 3,921 days ago

After President Barack Obama signed into law Wednesday a bill that repeals the ban on gays in the military, some West Point graduates are heralding the about-face as a civil rights victory.

Knights Out, a group of gay and lesbian West Point alumni, is celebrating the landmark bill as a major achievement for the gay community.

"We have been fighting for equality for all," says Candice Banks, of Knights Out.

Officials say more than 13,000 men and women have been discharged under the military's "don't ask, don't tell" policy since it was enacted 17 years ago.

Obama signs 'don't ask, don't tell' repeal

The ban will remain in effect until implementation plans are completed and top commanders certify that the change won't affect America's military readiness.