The U.S. House of Representatives voted on May 27, 2010, to end the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy that prohibits gays and lesbians from serving openly in the military. It's a significant step forward for President Barack Obama's campaign promise.

The vote was on a compromise plan that stops short of repealing the policy outright. The vote allows the policy to be repealed after military commanders complete a study and certify that the move would not be disruptive.

The House vote was 234 to 194. Most Democrats voted for it, while most Republicans voted against it. There were a few who broke ranks: Five Republicans supported the measure, while 26 Democrats opposed.

The full Senate has yet to vote on the matter, but a committee has approved a measure similar to the House plan, which is an amendment to a defense policy bill.

This doesn't yet repeal the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, but it's a significant step. The promise remains In the Works.