Gay in America - Don't Ask, Don't Tell Finally Certified

On Friday, July 22, President Barack Obama finally signed the certifcation of the Don't Ask, Don't Tell Repeal.  Certification comes after the Joint Chief of Staff and the Secretary of Defense stated that the military is ready to accept gays and lesbians to openly serve in the military.  Final repeal will happen 60 days after July 22 and then the Don't Ask, Don't Tell law will officially be off the books and history.

Some Background

Since last December when the President signed the repeal, the US Armed Forces have been providing training to its troops to prepare for open service. Most troops don't seem to think it will be a big deal - why? Because gays and lesbians have already been serving, just not openly. Most people, especially young troops have said that they have known at least one gay person and have served with that person with no problem.

Training was provided through videos, live training sessions, and question and answer sessions. Troops have been very receptive and professionalism has been emphasized to all troops. Even Barry Goldwater stated that "you can be gay and still shoot straight." The bottom line is that most don't care as long as the troop involved is good at his or her job.

A Personal Interest

I have a personal interest in the repeal and certification of DADT. You see, I have served for the last 7 years in the Air Force. I wasn't in a relationship until right before I left for Iraq. My wife and I have had a wedding ceremony at our local church, but have been fearful to legally get married because I was afraid I would lose my job.

Now, we are looking forward to going to New York and getting married! Neither one of us has been to the Big Apple so we are enjoying planning our trip and get officially married.

What This Means for Me and My Family

Even though my wife and I will be able to officially get married after September 20th, she will still not receive the full benefits of a military wife.  Due to the federal Defense of Marriage Act, she will still not have access to a military id card, medical benefits, insurance or would even be able to receive my body if I were to die in combat.  Our children are not entitled to my GI Bill benefits, which would be great to pass down to them!  But, because of this federal law, my wife and family are still considered second class citizens.  Our hope is that this law will be repealed as well and the Respect for Marriage Act would be accepted.

Still Being Careful

Even though I can't be kicked out for being gay in the military, I will still be careful.  We live in the South and it is still taboo to be gay and there are those with strong feelings against it.  So, I will be excited to put my family photos on my desk and answer the questions from those brave souls that are willing to ask.  But, I will try to be respectful as well, just as I want people to be respectful of me and my family. 

Looking Forward to the Future

My family and I are looking forward to the future and grateful for those who have already accepted us just as we are.  We are a family working hard like others and wanting to be treated as equally as those around us.  My service to our country is no different than those who are heterosexual and I'm so glad that it is recognized as such. Thank you to all who have been gracious to me and my family.  We look forward to what the future has in store and still serving as a military family!