News and Events => People news => Topic started by: Shana A on September 20, 2012, 10:46:45 AM Return to Full Version
Title: The Silent Soldiers Who Are Still ‘Unfit to Serve’
Post by: Shana A on September 20, 2012, 10:46:45 AM
Post by: Shana A on September 20, 2012, 10:46:45 AM
The Silent Soldiers Who Are Still 'Unfit to Serve'
It's now OK to be gay in the U.S. military, but The Advocate spoke with several transgender people on why policy means they must remain in the closet.
BY Sunnivie Brydum
September 19 2012 3:53 PM ET
http://www.advocate.com/politics/military/2012/09/19/meet-silent-soldiers-who-are-still-called-unfit-serve (http://www.advocate.com/politics/military/2012/09/19/meet-silent-soldiers-who-are-still-called-unfit-serve)
Toni Blessing served eight years as a petty officer in the U.S. Navy, and he loved his job. He would also love to re-enlist, not only for the camaraderie but also for the steady paycheck and reliable benefits. That last part is especially important because Blessing and his partner are now raising a son and could certainly use the consistent health insurance.
When Blessing left the service in December 2004, fellow crewmen referred to him as "the ideal sailor," Blessing said, and he boasted a stellar service record. During his exit interview, Blessing's commanding officer said he couldn't understand why someone like him was getting out of the service and asked for an explanation.
"I told him I'm transgender, and unfortunately the military sees that as a problem," said Blessing. "I need to live my life as who I am, and I can't be me and be in the Navy."
It's now OK to be gay in the U.S. military, but The Advocate spoke with several transgender people on why policy means they must remain in the closet.
BY Sunnivie Brydum
September 19 2012 3:53 PM ET
http://www.advocate.com/politics/military/2012/09/19/meet-silent-soldiers-who-are-still-called-unfit-serve (http://www.advocate.com/politics/military/2012/09/19/meet-silent-soldiers-who-are-still-called-unfit-serve)
Toni Blessing served eight years as a petty officer in the U.S. Navy, and he loved his job. He would also love to re-enlist, not only for the camaraderie but also for the steady paycheck and reliable benefits. That last part is especially important because Blessing and his partner are now raising a son and could certainly use the consistent health insurance.
When Blessing left the service in December 2004, fellow crewmen referred to him as "the ideal sailor," Blessing said, and he boasted a stellar service record. During his exit interview, Blessing's commanding officer said he couldn't understand why someone like him was getting out of the service and asked for an explanation.
"I told him I'm transgender, and unfortunately the military sees that as a problem," said Blessing. "I need to live my life as who I am, and I can't be me and be in the Navy."