Part 5/7:
The conversation took a broader turn as Gillibrand emphasized that the issues surrounding service members’ identities—such as being a mother or being part of the LGBTQ+ community—should not hinder their service. She recounted the detrimental effects of the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, which she claimed resulted in the loss of crucial personnel, including essential language speakers, at a time when such skills were invaluable.