Harvard University will welcome ROTC back to campus now that Congress has repealed a ban on gays and lesbians serving openly in the military, university president Drew Faust said.
The move will end a four-decade standoff between one of the nation’s most prestigious universities and its armed forces. The tension began over the Vietnam War and continued in recent years as university administrators, faculty, and students objected to what they saw as discrimination against gays and lesbians.
Faust, the daughter of a decorated World War II veteran, said she expects to begin talking with military officials about bringing the program back to campus soon. Faust has repeatedly said that the “don’t ask, don’t tell’’ policy was the final barrier to reinstating the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps.
“I look forward to pursuing discussions with military officials and others to achieve Harvard’s full and formal recognition of ROTC,’’ she said in a written statement. “I am very pleased that more students will now have the opportunity to serve their country.’’
A Pentagon spokeswoman said it is too early to say whether the decision could result in a ROTC unit being established on campus, but student interest and the military budget are two potential factors.
Full Story: After 4 decades, Harvard opens door to ROTC – The Boston Globe