Katie Couric's Notebook: Don't Ask

Since 1993, more than 12 thousand men and women have been kicked out of the military because they did tell. The bill's sponsors say that hurts national security, especially when troops are stretched so thin.

But they face an intense battle from those who argue changing the rules now, during war, would undermine readiness. They fear morale would suffer if soldiers knew a buddy is gay.

Whatever Congress decides, one thing will not change. Gays and lesbians will still serve in uniform, fighting for our freedom, whether or not they have the freedom to acknowledge who they really are.

That's a page from my notebook.

I'm Katie Couric, CBS News.