At midnight of 19 September the 18 year old law “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT) was repealed. Read ADM Papp's message about DADT. For more coverage go to the Coast Guard Compass, the official blog of the U.S. Coast Guard.

Follow up:

Shipmates,

As of today, the repeal of the law known as “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” is final. Accordingly, all Coast Guard policies relating to it are no longer in effect; our remaining policies are sexual-orientation neutral. Additional guidance detailing changes to existing manuals and instructions will follow via ALCOAST.

We will continue to Respect all our Shipmates today, just as we did yesterday, and we appreciate your continuing leadership as our Service implements this policy change.

A signed letter version of this message is available here: http://www.uscg.mil/seniorleadership/DOCS/2011-09-20;%20DADT%20Letter.pdf

Semper Paratus!

Admiral Bob Papp, Commandant

Master Chief Mike Leavitt, Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard