WASHINGTON — The defense department is taking initial steps to lift Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, a military policy that bans openly gay and lesbian soldiers from serving.

Defense Secretary Robert Gates and Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, were expected Tuesday to discuss how the ban can be repealed without hurting the morale and readiness of the troops.

At the State of the Union Address Wednesday, President Obama vowed to repeal the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell by the end of the year.

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~ Quara Gant