Chaplains can conduct nuptials for gays
Military chaplains may officiate at same-sex marriage ceremonies on
and off military bases, the Pentagon has announced, in a move that
closely followed the repeal of a ban on openly gay service members.
"A
military chaplain may participate in or officiate at any private
ceremony, whether on or off a military installation, provided that the
ceremony is not prohibited by applicable state and local law," wrote
Undersecretary of Defense Clifford L. Stanley.
Stanley's memo was
released September 30, only ten days after the repeal of the
Clinton-era Don't Ask/Don't Tell policy. Stanley also said a chaplain is
not required to lead or take part in such ceremonies "if doing so would
be in variance with the tenets of his or her religion or personal
beliefs."
