Secretary of Defense Robert Gates to Armed Services Committee Chairman Ike Skelton:
Therefore, I strongly oppose any legislation that seeks to change this policy prior to the completion of this vital assessment process. Further, I hope Congress will not do so, as it would send a very damaging message to our men and women in uniform that in essence their views, concerns, and perspectives do not matter on an issue with such a direct impact and consequence for them and their families.
Excuse me, Sec. Gates, but where was your concern for the "views, concerns, and perspectives" of servicemembers on the "issue with such a direct impact and consequence for them and their families" that was the decision to go to war? Did you demand a year-long study, and seek to manipulate Congress into not authorizing military force until after it was complete? Did you ask the troops what they thought when you authorized torture? How about when you decided to "surge" thousands of servicemembers without adequate rest? What about stop-loss? What about denying benefits to veterans with PTSD? Where was the study on that? Was that not an "issue with such a direct impact and consequence for them and their families"?
And where the hell do you get off claiming that DADT repeal has a consequence for servicemembers' families? What exactly are you trying to imply about gay people, Mr. Gates?
And Mr. Gates, it takes a hell of a lot of chutzpah for an executive branch official, speaking on behalf of the military, to tell Congress what legislation it may or may not pass. As if it's not enough to insult servicemembers, veterans, military families, and every out gay person in the country, you're also insulting Congress and the idea of civilian control of the military. You're saying that the opinions of military servicemembers should override the will of elected officials fulfilling a mandate granted them by the American people. And that, sir, is beyond the pale.
Oh, and by the way, where is your oh-so-sincere concern for the "views, concerns, and perspectives" of gay and lesbian servicemembers? You know, the ones you won't even allow to speak or testify without being discharged? Or do they not matter to you?