"Don't ask, don't tell" hype is everywhere!
December 13, 2010
Don't ask, don't tell hype is everywhere!
When DADT was passed into law, people were outraged. They were concerned about the impact on readiness, morale and welfare. In the years since DADT (and the years before it), we have served alongside homosexual Soldiers. Sure, they couldn't admit who they were. It was a big "secret" that everyone knew. In all those years we shared open-bay showers, we shared rooms, we ate together, went to the field together and occupied tactical vehicles together.
By now I think most Soldiers have realized the impact, or lack thereof, that gay Soldiers have had on our organizations and in our formations. Society has shifted in the new generation and come to accept cultures and lifestyles that were taboo twenty years ago. In civilian life most of us know someone or are related to someone who is gay. That was always true, it was just never talked about. As we, as a people, learn to accept our gay friends and or family members, we begin to also accept it in others we don't know too.
There are and will continue to be Soldiers who are not yet accustomed to the thought of equality for homosexuals. The same is true for other factors that engender hate I.E. racists, sexists, religious bias etc...a small percentage of hold-outs will remain in the years to come, but the Army will ensure proper training is conducted and monitored to bring the masses on board. This is no big deal, just as DADT was no big deal. The impact on readiness, morale and welfare will be nil.
I believe in the sanctity of marriage between a man and woman, I am a Christian and I practice values consistent with those beliefs. I am one other thing though - an American! America is the embodiment of acceptance. We represent every culture and lifestyle in the world. We live mostly peaceful as one nation with one common goal. We will adapt to this change - if and when it comes.
Gay men and women serve, fight and die alongside us. I'm okay with them not having to hide or lie about who they are.
Until next time,
Terry
Brittany
Dec 13, 2010 10:52 PM