{{In the US, Pentagon has officially extended some military benefits to same-sex partners, but said provisions like medical coverage would not be offered to gay troops’ spouses due to legal barriers.}}
US Defence Secretary Leon Panetta, who is due to retire this month, said the decision stemmed from the repeal 17 months ago of a ban on openly gay recruits serving in the military.
“It is a matter of fundamental equity that we provide similar benefits to all of those men and women in uniform who serve their country,” Panetta said in a statement.
“Today, I am pleased to announce that after a thorough and deliberate review, the department will extend additional benefits to same-sex partners of service members.”
The move, which defence officials had signaled last week, will provide same-sex partners with military identity cards, hospital visitation rights, access to youth and education programs and financial compensation in the event their military spouse dies, a Pentagon memo said.
“Extending these benefits is an appropriate next step under current law to ensure that all service members receive equal support for what they do to protect this nation,” Panetta said.
The number of same-sex couples affected by the decision is about 17,000 in the armed forces, including 5,600 active duty service members.
Aljazeera
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