Don't Ask - Don't Tell

It is time to end Don't Ask, Don't Tell and let all men and women who want to serve our Country serve regardless of sexual orientation. Don't Ask, Don't Tell dominates the news right now as well as our politicians. We have so many more important things that need to addressed in our Country. Let's get working on them. Obama said he was going to end it so just do it, keep your promise.

Gay and Lesbians have served in the Military since the beginning of the Military and they served our Country well. Some died for our freedoms. No, we never really heard about their sexual orientation but now, some are coming forward and want to be recognized and accepted for who they are as well as continue to serve our Country.

There is a book from Vietnam called "Dispatches" and the writer (Michael Herr) states something as to being at a fire base and it is very quiet except for the two Marines making love in the sleeping bag )if my memory serves right). He didn't say screwing, fucking, queer Marines. He said "Making Love".

I served this Country in Vietnam and yes, I know a few men who "Made Love" to another man. I've thought about it for many times since returning. My conclusion is that it was just that, Making Love. Were they gay? I don't know - and it doesn't matter. What matters is that there were two individuals in a war zone far from home, living in a horrible situation. Yet they found friendship, warmth, kindness and tenderness  for that brief moment.

Yesterday I asked a fellow Vietnam Veteran what he thought. He said he didn't care about it at all - the only thing he cared about was that whomever he fights with watches his back as he does theirs. Enough said.

And in closing I want to mention the recent suicides this Country is facing of young gay and lesbian women. The individuals are being bullied, taunted, chased, physically and mentally abused, etc. In the current situation they can't even look to the future as they have no protections at work and if they wanted to serve this Country - forget that. Try to put yourself in those young peoples shoes. Sexual Orientation should not be an issue nor should race, religion, etc. What really matters is the person and that he or she is respectful, treats others with respect and that those same courtesies are returned. We all need to take care of each other and do the right thing.