[Page H4545]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                              {time}  1930
   COMMEMORATING 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF REPEAL OF DON'T ASK, DON'T TELL

  (Mr. LANGEVIN asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. LANGEVIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 10th 
anniversary of the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell.
  For over 18 years, this discriminatory policy resulted in the 
discharge of thousands of brave, honorable, and capable servicemembers, 
solely due to their sexual orientation.
  On December 22, 2010, the Don't Ask, Don't Tell Repeal Act was signed 
into law, and the policy officially ended 10 years ago today.
  As a longtime supporter of repeal, I was thrilled when years of 
advocacy and determination paid off in the victory for dignity and 
equality.
  LGBTQ servicemembers are an integral part of our Nation's defense, 
and they deserve our eternal support and gratitude for the sacrifices 
they make every day to keep us safe.
  Please join me in commemorating this historic day and in thanking all 
LGBTQ servicemembers and veterans for their service to our Nation.

                          ____________________