News

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."