The US Senate has taken a key step towards allowing gay people to serve openly in the military.
Senators decided by 63-33 to advance a bill overturning the "don't ask, don't tell" policy for a final vote, which is expected soon.
Repeal is now said to be certain as the House of Representatives has already backed it. President Barack Obama, who supports the repeal, welcomed the vote.
Opponents argue that the change will damage troop morale at a time of war.
More than 13,000 service members have been dismissed under the 1993 law forbidding gay people in the military from acknowledging their sexual orientation.
Saturday's procedural move precludes delaying tactics under Senate rules, clearing the way for a final vote. BBC News
