Honor Every Veteran
As Veteran's Day approaches, I look back at my recent experience at my 10-Year West Point Reunion which occurred a month ago. My partner and I had a great time meeting friends and old classmates and catching up with each other professionally and personally. It was great to see that the so many classmates and friends were supportive about our presence. I also spoke to many of them at the evening banquet about my volunteer work to repeal Don't Ask, Don't Tell and the progress that has taken place over the last few years and the number of Congressional Representatives who have decided to co-sponsor HR-1246. It was great to see that many of my classmates not only supported our presence at the reunion, but they stated that DADT was "a ridiculous policy" and "long overdue for repeal". Others stressed that it was a human issue that needs to be addressed.
The next day at the parade, to my surprise I saw the same people not dressed in civilian attire, but they were in there military uniforms. They were Captains and Majors, mid level officers who commanded soldiers and who were dedicated to the principles of Duty, Honor, Country. I was confident knowing that they were committed to serving another 10 years or more and a rewarding thought knowing that these leaders were attune to the changing views that gays and lesbians should serve and serve openly.
The Reunion Weekend left a lasting positive impression knowing that some of these members of the Long Gray Line will one day be the Army's future Generals. I'm convinced that the time is near where not only will every Veteran be honored but every service member in uniform is honored regardless of their sexual preference and identity.
On Veteran's Day, take a moment to think of ALL Service Members and the challenges they face every day. One day some of them will have a few less challenges to face everyday and they will take a moment to thank us.
-Former Army First Lieutenant Steve Boeckels
You may have missed:
Monday - Former Marine Sergeant Brian Fricke
Tuesday - Prior US Army Major Jeff McGowanLabels: honor every veteran, steve boeckels
11-07-07
1 Comments
Comments for this entry are closed.Anonymous on December 31, 1969 at 02.00 pm
Sir, I can tell you that I have many Ps that support repeal and open service and there are a few I have confided in. And that gay male cadets have a large and well-organized network (not so much the women, regrettably). <BR><BR>If change comes, I think the majority or a large minority of cadets will be very happy.
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