The "don't ask, don't tell" policy has prevented gay men from openly serving in the United States military.  Last week, a California judge, Virginia Phillips, struck down the policy, allowing open gays to join the forces.  Phillips says that "don't ask, don't tell" is a violation of gay military members' right to free speech and equal protection under the law.  The pentagon warns them, however, for the lift of the law may not withstand for long -- homosexuals wishing to join the military are enlisted, but warned in advance that the legal situation may quickly change.  Some gay activist groups are prompting gays to enlist to test the truth of the change.  President Obama has vowed to cease the policy, but advisors say this cannot be done without congressional action.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-11580459