VIDEO, PHOTOS: Obama Signs "Don't Ask, Dont Tell" Repeal

An historic day. The President has signed DADT repeal into law.

The New York Times:

"No longer will tens of thousands of Americans in uniform be asked to live a lie or look over their shoulder," Mr. Obama said during a signing ceremony in a packed auditorium at the Interior Department here. Quoting the chairman of his joint chiefs of staff, Admiral Mike Mullen, Mr. Obama went on, "Our people sacrifice a lot for their country, including their lives. None of them should have to sacrifice their integrity as well."

For Mr. Obama, the ceremony — held at the Interior Department because the White House is tied up with holiday tours — marked yet another in a string of last-minute, bipartisan legislative triumphs, a surprising turnaround in the wake of the self-described “shellacking” his party took at the polls last month. ... For the gay rights movement, which has been frustrated with the pace of progress under Mr. Obama, Wednesday marked a celebratory turning point. “Thank you, Mr. President,” someone shouted, as Mr. Obama took the stage, prompting a round of other shouts: “Chicago’s in the house, Mr. President! You rock, Mr. President!” Mr. Obama pronounced himself overwhelmed.

The President is seen speaking to former Staff Sgt. Eric Alva, the first Marine injured in Iraq.

The White House invited Rod 2.0 and a number of bloggers and activists to the historic event. Given plans and the timing, we weren't able to fly to D.C. last night, but are proud and honored the White House reached out to so many people. The complete video, WHEN YOU JUMP ...

Comments

[Nathan James]

What a sweet moment in American history! It reaffirms my belief that our government DOES have moments of genuine decency. Yes, we DID!

[Cedric]

Yes a lot has happened in our lifetime and this one sits very well on top just below the U S electing a Man of Color for President. Now the reason I say that is because he is bi-racial.

[Eric]

FINALLY!!!!!!!!!
Now all they have to do is make DOMA act unconstitutional. And this country is one step closer to being a 'Perfect Union'!!

[Jacob]

Today I was a witness of historic importance in America's history. I can now see a day i will can able rightfully marry my boyfriend.

[FREELEO]

Amazing. I've witnessed the world change so much in my lifetime. This is a good day.

[me]

This is exactly way the LGBT community must work TIRELESSLY to elect more DEMOCRATS!!!!!!