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FORT CARSON, Colo. (AP) -- Army Chief of Staff Gen. George W. Casey says he sees "anxiety" in the armed forces over how any change in the don't ask, don't tell policy would be implemented.

During a visit to Fort Carson on Thursday, Casey said the military must look hard at how a new policy would be put into force and alleviate those concerns.

He also says it's important to give everyone in the armed forces an opportunity to be heard on the issue without being penalized.

President Barack Obama wants change a 1993 law that bans openly gay servicemen and women, saying it unfairly punishes people who want to serve. Congress would have to rewrite the law.

Defense Secretary Robert Gates has ordered a comprehensive study on how to lift the ban without hurting the forces.

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