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Don't ask, Don't tell, Don't pursue, Don't harass

September 22, 2001

Contrary to recent headlines, neither President Bush nor Pentagon leaders have repealed or suspended "Don't Ask, Don't Tell, Don't Pursue, Don't Harass."

What HAS happened is this: President Bush issued Executive Order 13223 on September 14, 2001 authorizing, but not ordering, the Secretary of Defense to consider issuing a stop-loss order. The Secretary of Defense has, in turn, authorized the Service Secretaries to consider issuing a stop-loss order in each Service. The Service Secretaries will make that decision in the next two to four weeks. A stop-loss order may or may not include suspension of gay discharges.

C. Dixon Osburn, Executive Director of Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN), stated that "service members should continue to operate with the understanding that 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' remains in effect. The gay ban has not been lifted."

Service members who want more information on how any mobilization may impact them should contact (SLDN) Servicemembers Legal Defense Network at (202) 328-FAIR (3247).

ATTENTION SERVICE MEMBERS: Under Article 31 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice, you have the right to remain silent and to consult with a defense attorney if you are investigated. Say nothing. Sign nothing. Get legal help.

Call SLDN: (202)328-FAIR or (202-328-3247)