Marines Vow to 'Step Out Smartly' on Repeal of Military Gay Ban

WASHINGTON, Jan. 31, 2011 -- The top two leaders of the U.S. Marine Corps say Marines will "step out smartly" to implement a repeal of the "don't ask, don't tell" policy towards gays in the military, now that the law has been changed, despite previous publicly expressed opposition to ending the military's ban on openly gay troops.

Marine Commandant Gen. James Amos and Marine Corps Sergeant Major Sgt. Major Carlton Kent appeared in a video message to Marines released Friday night, shortly after senior Pentagon officials outlined how the Pentagon would begin implementing a repeal of the policy this year.

Amos and Kent said they expect Marines to follow the new orders – that will eventually allow service members to publicly identify as gay or lesbian – "with dignity and respect."

"The Marine Corps exists to defend our nation," said Amos. "We are a nation of laws. We are committed by our oath and core values to obey these laws. Our success as Marines has always been grounded in the quality of our leadership, from general officers to small unit leaders."

"The Marine Corps is a diverse force and all have earned the privilege to wear the eagle, globe, and anchor. As Marines, we are confident that you will continue to treat each other with dignity and respect," said Kent.