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U.S. Army Captain: Repeal DADT

U.S. Army Captain Matthew J. Fecteau’s letter to the editor in today’s online edition of The Valley Breeze in Pawtucket, RI (“Repeal ‘Don’t ask, don’t tell’) says that lifting the ban on open service would not only respect service members but would also strengthen military readiness in a time of war.

"I want to repeal the 'don't ask, don't tell' policy not merely for privacy reasons, but to ensure we have most able-bodied people in positions they so rightly deserve. As a military officer, I want the best soldier possible no matter their sexual orientation, that includes senior officers. Our failure to ensure the best-qualified people fill the most critical positions is of the utmost concern considering the shortage of soldiers in both Afghanistan and Iraq."

Captain Fecteau recognizes what more and more service members, especially the younger generation of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans, understand: Sexual orientation has nothing to do with completing the mission.

"All and all, I honestly do not care about someone's sexual orientation. A professional organization is just that, a professional organization. Sexual orientation should have no impact on our a fighting force. Once, while on patrol in the heart of Sadr City, (Baghdad, Iraq), the Iraqi contractors began to riot. I did not care to ask the sexual orientation of my counterpart, as honestly, it did not matter so long as he can carry a rifle and save 'my ass.' Sexual orientation should not be high on the list of military priorities especially during a time of war. Repeal 'don't ask, don't tell.'"

To read more, click here.

Military culture is steadily shifting in favor of open service, and a clear majority of Americans on both sides of the political aisle agree with President Obama, Secretary Gates and Admiral Mullen on the need for repeal. Now it’s time for the Senate to catch up. Both your senators need to hear from you. Contact your senators today and tell them to do what’s right for all service members and vote for DADT repeal.

09-01-10 By Paul DeMiglio, Senior Communications Manager |