The Pentagon revealed on Tuesday that over 800 military individuals have had their service records reclassified as honorable discharges, following previous discharges under the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy.
This move represents an ongoing effort to rectify historical injustices faced by LGBTQ service members.

Historically, the military’s stance on homosexuality was formally established with the 1951 Uniform Code of Military Justice, which classified consensual same-sex relations as a crime.
In 1993, then-President Bill Clinton instituted a significant policy change by introducing “don’t ask, don’t tell,” which permitted LGBTQ individuals to serve in the military as long as they kept their sexual orientation private.
This policy was dismantled in 2011, paving the way for openly LGBTQ individuals to serve openly in the armed forces, further legal adjustments to the UCMJ in 2013 limited criminalization specifically to nonconsensual sexual activities.

In June, President Joe Biden announced his plan to issue pardons for military personnel who had been convicted under previously repealed policies.
Under the previous “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy, many service members have faced discharges that did not allow them honorable status, thereby denying access to various military benefits, including educational opportunities.
Additionally, such discharges have also hindered their prospects when applying for jobs or loans.

Last year, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin directed a review of cases for former military personnel who might have been impacted by this policy.
According to Pentagon estimates, around 13,500 service members were discharged under “don’t ask, don’t tell.” With the recent review and the upgrade of records for the 800 service members, approximately 96% of those affected have now been granted honorable discharges.

It’s important to note that not all cases from the 13,500 personnel required evaluation; some did not serve the necessary time to be eligible for benefits, previously received honorable discharges, or obtained discharges through other processes.
Others may not qualify for an upgrade due to noncompliance with military regulations.

In a statement, Secretary Austin emphasized the ongoing commitment to honor the service and sacrifices of all troops, including those LGBTQ individuals who faced discrimination based on their sexual orientation.
“We will continue to strive to do right by every American patriot who has honorably served their country,” he affirmed.