BY SARAH ROSS

WASHINGTON- Oregon’s U.S senators announced Wednesday they have added their support to a Senate bill repealing the military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy keeping gays from openly serving in the United States armed forces.

The announcement comes exactly a year after similar legislation was introduced in the House but failed to gain momentum.

“America is a nation committed to liberty, but you cannot have liberty without equality,” said Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore. “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell was a blow to liberty and our national security when I voted against it 17 years ago and I am glad to be part of the team working to repeal it today.”

Sen. Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., agreed.

“The very strongest fighting force demands that we recruit and retain those who have the skills and knowledge to fulfill their missions. Their private lives should have no bearing on their willingness or ability to serve,” said Merkley. “This legislation undoes an injustice that has kept far too many excellent Americans from wearing a military uniform.”

Their statements came from separate press releases issued on Wednesday.

The proposal, the Military Readiness Enhancement Act of 2010, would repeal the current policy preventing gays from openly serving in the military. It also would issue a policy of nondiscrimination based on sexual orientation, and re-instate Reserve Officer Training Corps programs at previously barred colleges and universities.

Military leaders such as Secretary of Defense Robert Gates and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen have voiced their support for a repeal, saying that they support the President’s position and will proceed accordingly.

Greg Leo, communications director for the Oregon Republican Party, spoke against the possible repeal, saying, “We think the military leadership is doing a good job in dealing with these policies and we would support the idea that the military commanders should make the decisions on these matters and not Congress.”

The proposal to repeal the policy surfaced during President Barack Obama’s 2008 presidential campaign.

The “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy was instituted by former President Bill Clinton’s administration in 1993 through a Department of Defense directive.