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Retired Officers Come Out to Protest “Don’t Ask”
Seven retired military officers publicly came out of the closet Friday, hoping their actions will stir Congress to repeal "don't ask, don't tell" and force Gen. Peter Pace, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, to apologize for calling gays "immoral" this week.
The officers are all highly decorated and have earned numerous honors and commendations. They include Army Col. Stewart Bornhoft; Navy Capt. Joan E. Darrah, Naval Reserve Capt. Robert D. Dockendorff; Army Chaplain Col. Paul W. Dodd; Naval Reserve Capt. Sandra Geiselman; Army Col. E. A. Leonard and Navy Capt. Robert Michael Rankin.
"Our community has a long history of serving our country in the armed forces," the group said in a written statement.
"Today, there are more than 65,000 lesbian and gay troops on duty. Another 1 million gay and lesbian veterans, including the seven of us, have served in our fighting forces.
"Gen. Pace's remarks dishonor that service, as does the 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' law. Gen. Pace must offer an immediate and unqualified apology for his remarks and Congress must take action to repeal the ban on lesbian, gay and bisexual Americans who want to serve our country."
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