General James Amos, US Marine CorpThe head of the US Marine Corps, Gen. James Amos, pledged to lead the effort to integrate openly gay Marines, one day after the Senate voted to repeal “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”, a policy that discriminates against gay soldiers.

The Marines were the one branch of the military where service members were not solidly behind the repeal that would let gay members serve openly. But, on Sunday the General vowed to lead the transition “thus ensuring the respect and dignity due all Marines.”

“I, and the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, will personally lead this effort,” Amos said. “The Marine Corps will step out smartly to faithfully implement this new policy.”

The U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate each voted to repeal the policy. The law will now move to President Obama’s desk for signature.

“Fidelity is the essence of the United States Marine Corps,” continued the General. “Above all else, we are loyal to the Constitution, our Commander in Chief, Congress, our Chain of Command, and the American people.”

“On this matter, we look forward to further demonstrating to the American people the discipline and loyalty that have been the hallmark of the United States Marine Corps for over 235 years.”

(With info from Stars and Stripes)

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