War troops to undergo 'don't ask' repeal classes

CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (AP) — A U.S. general in Afghanistan says Marines under his command will undergo training to prepare for the repeal of the military’s ban on openly gay troops before they return home.

Maj. Gen. Richard Mills told reporters in a teleconference call from Helmand Province that Marines coming off the battlefield will undergo formal classes, discussion groups and “extensive” training to make sure each individual understands the new rules.

It was the first time the Marines Corps has revealed specific details on how it plans to train troops for the repeal of “don’t ask don’t tell.” The Marine Corps was the most resistant to the change, according the Pentagon’s military-wide poll.

Mills says educational material for the training has been distributed to senior officers and it includes setting up scenarios and handling ethical discussions.

Mills says the classes’ instructors will be trained in the next month or so.