Cedar Valley Inclusion
diversity Text | Matthew Wilde
“D
on’t ask, don’t tell” is history. In the minds of state and local military officials, it’s been a nonissue for quite some time. The government policy established in 1993 forbid openly gay, lesbian or bisexual people from serving in the military. It also prohibited the military from asking potential and current service members about their sexual orientation and allowed homosexuals to serve — without fear of harassment or discrimination — as long as they remained in the closet. Congress passed legislation late last year to repeal the rule. President Barack Obama, along with top military leaders, certified the armed forces were ready for the change in July. It went into effect September 20. Iowa military officials applaud the action, saying more diversity in the military is a good thing. Plus, it could be a boon for recruiting. Col. Greg Hapgood, spokesman for the Iowa Army National Guard, said the military is a microcosm of society, meaning homosexuals have always served. However, keeping quiet about one’s sexuality isn’t as big of a deal today as it was decades ago, Hapgood said, and discrimination of any form isn’t tolerated. Today’s soldiers are more worried about protecting the country than if a fellow service member is gay or straight, he said.
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At right: Capt. Forrest Moore, company commander of the Waterloo U.S. Army Recruiting Company.
big step forward
Photo by Dawn Sagert
in military takes a