Today in History

US military ends its “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy and allows gay men and women to serve openly.

A truck loaded with explosives detonates by Marriott hotel in Islamabad, Pakistan, killing 45 and injuring 226.

US Pres. George W. Bush, addressing a joint session of Congress, declares a “war on terror.”.

British MI6 Secret intelligence Service building in London attacked by unidentified group using RPG-22 anti-tank missile.

South Ossetia declares its independence from George in the former Soviet Union.

Australia introduces a capital gains tax.

Suicide car bomber attacks US embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, killing 22.

Socialist Republic of Vietnam admitted to the United Nations.

In a pro tennis bout dubbed “The Battle of the Sexes,” Billie Jean King beats Bobby Riggs at the Houston Astrodome in Texas.

Hurricane Irene becomes the first hurricane known to cross from the Atlantic to Pacific, where it is renamed Hurricane Olivia.

Kristen Johnston, actress; won two Emmy Awards as Sally Solomon in 3rd Rock from the Sun TV series.

Scientists confirm that DNA holds hereditary data.

Dale Chihuly, sculptor known for his unique creations in blown glass.

Sofia Loren (Sofia Scicolone), first actress to win the Academy Award for Best Actress for a performance in a non-English language film (Two Women); received Cecil B. DeMille Award for lifetime achievements (1995).