On the recordSeptember 21, 2011
Mr. Speaker, I stand before you today under the dome of our Nation's Capitol to applaud the final repeal of the discriminatory policy known as Don't Ask, Don't Tell. The men and women who fight for our country as members of our Armed Forces fight for what's right, what's fair, and what's just. They fight without asking at what cost, without asking why and how long they must endure. This September 11 marked 10 years since that fateful day when our country was attacked. As I returned home from Chicago, boarded my plane and landed safely in Washington, I marveled at the dome that still sat, untouched by those who would do us harm, because of those who had no fear, those who gave their last full measure of devotion. And today, I'm emboldened further by the fact that these same soldiers who have continued to fight and die for our safety can now do so without having to hide who they are or who they love. Our soldiers fight for what's right, what's fair, and what's just. Finally, we have managed to provide the same to them. ____________________
