By PAULINE JELINEK and LOLITA C. BALDOR
WASHINGTON – More than a million U.S. troops-roughly half the armed forces-have been trained on the new law allowing gays to serve openly in the military. Military officials say they see no adverse impact on the force so far.
Despite dire warnings that repealing the 17-year-old ban would roil the nation’s armed forces and undermine fighting ability, no problems have emerged that would block the repeal later this year. President Barack Obama promised repeal, but left exact timing to the Pentagon.
Pentagon officials say there’s been no widespread resistance; no mad rush for the door by those opposed, and- importantly- no drop in recruiting. Officials spoke on condition of anonymity because the Pentagon is still assessing when it will be ready to completely end the policy.
