Pentagon Gives White House Advice on Transgender Military Service On Friday, Defense Secretary James Mattis The Pentagon did not reveal details about the recommendation, but Reuters reported a top U.S. general said transgender troops should not be removed from the military. Back in July 2017, Trump declared he wanted a ban on transgender individuals in the military, which prompted the Pentagon to assemble a panel to review and study the issue closely. Trump's motion reversed and Obama-era policy that allows transgender individuals to openly serve. The final policy announcement will be made on March 23rd.