Retired officers urge 'don't ask' repeal

WASHINGTON, Nov. 30 (UPI) -- Twenty-eight retired U.S. generals and admirals have released a letter calling for an end to the military's "don't ask, don't tell" policy.

The letter urged the U.S. Congress to repeal the law, which allows gay men and lesbians to serve in the military so long as their sexual orientation is kept a secret, and allow homosexuals to serve openly, The New York Times reported Friday.

"We respectfully urge Congress to repeal the 'don't ask, don't tell' policy," the letter said. "Those of us signing this letter have dedicated our lives to defending the rights of our citizens to believe whatever they wish."

The officers wrote that an estimated 65,000 gay men and lesbians are currently serving in the military and the number of gay veterans has surpassed 1 million.

"They have served our nation honorably," the letter read.

The letter arrives on the 14th anniversary of the legislation that put the policy in place and coincides with planned rallies on the National Mall by groups opposed to the provision.