OutServe Magazine — targeting gay and lesbian service members — has announced it has received approval to distribute its publication on Army and Air Force military bases beginning in September.

The upcoming September 20th Repeal Issue of the magazine will honor the gay, lesbian, and bisexual men and women “who have proudly served their nation,” OutServe announced. The release of the issue coincides with the day the Pentagon plans to formally end enforcement of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy that bans gays from serving openly.

“This marks an incredible time in the history of our military,” said JD Smith, co-director of OutServe who goes by a pseudonym while “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” is still in effect.

“Gay, lesbian, and bisexual service members once had to conceal their true identities. By featuring their pictures and their stories, we are signaling that time has passed. It is time for these military members to be honored for their extraordinary commitment and sacrifice in defense of our country,” said Smith, in a statement.

OutServe magazine has also launched an interactive website where readers can comment, share articles and order both digital and print versions of the magazine. The website will also feature exclusive videos and member blogs not found in the print edition.

OutServe is the association of actively-serving LGBT military personnel. With over 4,000 members and 42 chapters worldwide, it is one of the largest LGBT employee resource groups in the world.

Tags: Don't Ask Don't Tell, Military, OutServe

Filed under: National Headlines