WASHINGTON -- The Human Rights Campaign and other LGBT groups are commending U.S. Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta for releasing a historic video message to members of the military commemorating Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month, which takes place each June.

This marks the first Pride season in which service members can openly participate.

"Don't Ask, Don't Tell" was repealed in December 2010, and repeal was implemented last September.