Reform of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' near

NORTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP) - Defense Secretary Robert Gates announced Tuesday that he's looking for a "more humane" interpretation of the 1993 "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy that prohibits homosexuals from serving openly in the military.

It's a controversial policy that President Obama pledged to overturn when he got into office. But he, nor congressional leaders, have made made moves to repeal it.

David Axelrad, of Easthampton, told 22News that "I think it's kind of sad that we ever needed it in the first place. It should have never been an issue."

The law, as it's written now, would allow someone to be expelled from the military even if a third party revealed their sexual orientation.

Jeff Wheelock, one of the owners of Pride and Joy in Northampton, told 22News that "I think it's unjust. I think if you want to serve in the military, you should be allowed to serve in the military." He added "I think a lot of people would be surprised to know, if they found out, how many people have already served in the military."

Other critics of the policy say that it's unfair that convicted felons can serve in the military while those who are gay, lesbian, or bi-sexual cannot serve openly.