SLDN Warns Troops: Don't Come Out (Yet)

The Servicemembers Legal Defense Network has issued a warning that gay troops should not consider coming out just yet. Via press release:

"We need the media’s help to let troops know they remain at risk under the law even after the President signs the bill. The Pentagon just released new guidence that made clear “Don’t Ask” may still be the law for some time to come. We respectfully renew our call for Defense Secretary Robert Gates to use his authority to suspend all ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ investigations during this limbo period. Until the President signs the bill, until there is certification, and until the 60-day implementation period is over, no one should be investigated or discharged under this discriminatory law. Certification and the implementation period must be wrapped up no later than the first quarter of 2011. The bottom line: for now, gay, lesbian, and bisexual service members must remain cautiously closeted," said Aubrey Sarvis, Army veteran and executive director for Servicemembers Legal Defense Network.

Read more on this issue of certification and implementation.