In my opinion, I have to disagree with what the reasons the author has presented in her article. As a current member of the United States Army Reserve Unit, it is clear that I have more insight on this subject than civilians. The author presents only a few arguments, declaring banning homosexuals from the military is unconstitutional and that it is inhumane. Although both arguments are true, the author fails to recognize the downside of openly accepting gays into the military.
First of all, I have no ill feelings toward homosexuals. People could kiss, love, and marry the same sex if one desires it. I accept this philosophy and have never discriminated against any gay men or women. With that said however, accepting gays openly into the military causes several problems. First, soldiers are not authorized to sleep in the same building or tent with the sex that they are attracted to. Straight men are not allowed sleep near women and vice versa. Where will gay soldiers sleep is beyond me. Extra building and rules restricting sexual tensions among soldiers will require more time and money. Also, being around gay soldiers might make other soldiers uncomfortable. One might confuse a gesture of friendship or bro-mance with sexual harassment, thus destroying trust and unity in the military. A group of straight soldiers taking a shower in the latrine can’t say that they feel comfortable when a gay soldier walks in.
The army life is very different from the civilian life because soldiers can’t just get over it. Yes, it is unconstitutional, but not inhumane. Many soldiers accept homosexuals and they certainly don’t live in fear. No one is asking and no one is blaming. Openly announcing gay soldier would only create problems and tension.
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