WASHINGTON (WTVR)–For the first time ever, the Pentagon will host an event to salute gays in the military, in honor of gay pride month, reports the Associated Press.
The “don’t ask, don’t tell,” military rule forbid troops from discussing their sexual orientation, until the rule was repealed in September 2011. The Associated Press said that under that law, more than 13,000 serving lost their jobs.
Defense Secretary Leon Panetta told Pauline Jelinek, with the AP,that he feels it’s important to recognize the service of gays in the military. The military also hosts other celebrations honoring racial or ethnic groups.
June is the month that gay pride is celebrated around the globe.
Military officials have not yet said what the event will be.
