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Dorr’s About Face

Robert Dorr, an Air Force veteran, and a frequent contributor to the opinion section of the Military Times, has done a stunning about face. In a 2003 opinion column in the Air Force Times about the National Security Agency's decision to mark June as Gay and Lesbian Pride Month for the agency, Dorr said this about "Don't Ask, Don't Tell:"

In my opinion, homosexuality is incompatible with military service. Gay Americans always have served in the armed forces. They fought battles and suffered sacrifices. They deserve to be honored for their service. But private behavior should remain private.

Contrast that opinion with today's. In a column in a May 2007 issue of the Air Force Times, Dorr talks about those lesbian, gay and bisexual service members he knows, and highlights the story of TSgt Leonard Matlovich. He then salutes the service of all Americans by saying this:

I was wrong.

America has changed and become more tolerant. But even before America changed, I was wrong.

If I can change, so can you: It’s time to lift a ban that was never needed and welcome qualified gay Americans who wish to serve.

We salute you, Mr. Dorr, for standing up for equality and fairness for all Americans. Thank you for standing up for what's right. Take the time to thank Mr. Dorr for his service and his courage. Email him at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) and let him know your thoughts. Better yet, send a letter to the editor (along with your name, address, daytime phone, and rank) in support of Mr. Dorr's about face at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address). As more leaders -- civilian and military alike -- stand up in support of lifting the ban, the closer we are to the day when all Americans can serve, regardless of sexual orientation. - Rebecca Sawyer

Labels: in the news, veterans

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05-16-07