Openly Gay Soldier Lt. Dan Choi Taken Back In Service
February 10th, 2010 - 8:42 pm ICT by GD ( 21 comments )By Ranjan Bhaduri
Feb 10, (THAINDIAN NEWS) In a recent development that may make the gay community happy, openly gay soldier Lt. Dan Choi has been taken back into service after being fired from U.S. Army. He came out clear about his sexual orientation sometimes back and according to the disputed “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy was discharged from duty. As a matter of fact, he declared his homosexuality without any hesitation and is known as a vocal supporter of same sex relationship and marriages. He has appeared on the popular Rachel Maddow Show. He is a part of the New York National Guard and that means he is not a full time military staff.
Lt. Dan Choi works as an Arabic translator. Luckily, he did not get any discriminating treatment from his commanding officer after coming out clean about his orientation. To the contrary, his commanding officer provided him the support he required at that time. He had no intention of discharging Lt. Dan Choi from his service. When Lt. Dan Choi got the discharge notification from the US army, he decided to appeal against the draconian law. However, the army has not completed the discharge procedure.
The voice against the DADT law in military is rising with time and a lot of army personnel feel it needs to be repealed immediately. The situation has improved after 2003. There are a huge number of soldiers in the army who are homosexual or bisexuals. Owing to this law, they have to live a closeted life. If their orientation is revealed, their career gets affected. Soldiers like Colonel Victor Fehrenbach or Lt. Dan Choi are extremely skilled and firing them for their sexual orientation can prove to be detrimental for the army.
- U.S. Senate votes to repeal 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' policy - Dec 19, 2010
- Gay soldier discharged from New York paramilitary - Jul 24, 2010
- Homosexual Californian Soldier Respectably Released From The New York Army National Guard - Jul 23, 2010
- Gay military rights advocate Lt. Dan Choi is back on active duty - Feb 10, 2010
- 'Don't ask, don't tell' Repeal moves forward - Jul 22, 2011
- Lady Gaga slams John McCain over 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' policy - Sep 18, 2010
- US court stalls acceptance of gay recruits into military - Oct 21, 2010
- Military Gay Ban On Its Way Out In USA - May 28, 2010
- Lady Gaga's tears + pride over new gay ruling for U.S. Army - Dec 20, 2010
- Gaga says 'equality is the prime rib of America' at Don't Ask Don't Tell rally - Sep 21, 2010
- US military welcomes end of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' law on Pentagon's orders - Oct 20, 2010
- Mike Mullen Somewhat Displeased With The American House Vote On The Repeal Of DADT - May 31, 2010
- Bollywood celebs slam Azad's comments on MSM - Jul 05, 2011
- President Barack Obama Heckled By Gay Rights Activists - Apr 24, 2010
- U.S. Senator Burris leads repeal of "Don't ask, Don't tell" policy - Mar 04, 2010
Tags: arabic translator, army personnel, colonel, commanding officer, draconian law, fehrenbach, gay community, gay soldier, hesitation, homosexuality, matter of fact, military staff, new york national guard, ranjan, same sex relationship, sexual orientation, soldiers in the army, u s army, us army, vocal supporter
February 10th, 2010 at 10:45 pm
I am all for keeping the DADT rule in place. Homosexuality is not normal, no matter how you want to spin it. As much as we hear about it, you’d think 50% of the population is gay. That simply not true. They are a VERY small % of the population, yet they expect to be treated like “everyone’s doing it”. If you want to be gay, be gay. But don’t try to force it on everyone else as perfectly acceptable, because it’s not with a majority of the population. And don’t try to label me as a homophobe or something. I’m not at all. I just simply don’t agree with the lifestyle.
February 11th, 2010 at 12:17 am
it is clear that your ignorance overwhelms your brain. what does being gay have anything to do with the job you do. I find it hard to believe you dont get that. It would be as if you were to be fired or not given a job because you like girls. Better yet, no brains! get a clue Steve and get out there. The small % you cliam is not that small. as far as gays trying to push it on you, place yourself ONE minute in someone their shoes and see how you like it.. having to hide holding hands, not being able to kiss the one you love in public etc, Just because you dont agree with it doesnt mean you can or wont understand it. Major difference! It’s 2010, cant believe there is still people like this out there. so narrow minded,ignorant. Live and let live I say!
February 11th, 2010 at 1:50 am
Wow, you’re so hip, and new age, Victor. I’m sure you’ll get you pat on the back from a bunch of people here. But there are some realities in the military (yes, I was in) that you don’t understand. When you are in the military, live on base, and in barracks, you generally live with a roommate, and share a shower with 2 men in the room next door. So you have 4 dudes sharing a shower…coming in and out whenever. If one or two of them is gay, that might cause a little bit of a uncomfortable area. It’s sounds great on paper, and so “21st century” what you’re saying. But you don’t have a “clue” about the reality of it. Sorry, I ain’t jumping on the bandwagon. I fought for my countries freedom for 6yrs, and have every right to have my own opinion, and express that opinion. Like I said, if they want to be gay, let em. You want to hold hands and kiss out in public…your choice. But when you are a heterosexual in the military, which most of us are, and are forced to be in a living environment (share bathrooms etc) with homosexuals…it’s a whole different story.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:40 am
Steve,
Guess what? Gay men are ALREADY showering with their straight bunkmates! They’re not asking for SPECIAL treatment, but to be treated the SAME! Just like women and blacks had to do in past history. Yeah, you may think interracial marriage also is abnormal (educated guess), but sensible minds have prevailed. Repealing DADT won’t change things, just like letting gays marry won’t “ruin” the institution of straight marriage. It’s absurd to think so. Why don’t you join us in the 21st century?
February 11th, 2010 at 2:47 am
Oh, and btw: I am not gay. I just have compassion and an open mind.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:58 am
“Gay men are ALREADY showering with their straight bunkmates!”
That may very well be happening. But I guarantee you a majority of them don’t know the person is gay…and that person doesn’t go around admitting it. That’s why DADT works, in a military environment. They don’t know the person is gay, so it’s not an issue.
And you’re right, your guess is just that, a guess…but not very educated.
It’s not about joining any century. It’s about reality, and people, like it or not. If you could interview military personnel, and it were anonymous, I guarantee you the majority would agree with me. It’s a fact, like it or not.
Again, another person speaking from having no knowledge of military life.
February 11th, 2010 at 3:19 am
Steve, Steve…(sigh). So, you “guarantee a majority of them don’t know the person is gay”? SO WRONG. Plus, even if we assume you’re right, what about the minority who DO KNOW that person in the shower next to them is gay??? What are they doing presently? Refusing to shower until later? Openly threatening them? Or letting them go about their business LIKE A “REAL” PERSON?
Treating minorities differently IS old-fashioned, like your thinking. Why else do we put curb cuts at intersections so people in wheelchairs can navigate? Why do we no longer put mentally challenged children in ’special’ schools? Why do we no longer allow realtors to “steer” blacks away from white neighborhoods? Etc, etc. It’s because we’re evolving as a society, and embracing diversity. That is a GOOD thing.
And you don’t give the military any credit here. Some, like you, wouldn’t want to accept change (It’s SCARY!), but trust me, the vast majority would get over it quickly. And the military, and our society as a whole, would be much better off for it. Gays have MUCH to contribute to our military, and want to serve with dignity. Let’s let them.
February 11th, 2010 at 4:33 am
Sorry Pat, just not in me to accept it. I know it’s been going on for centuries…but that doesn’t make it ok, to me.
How does openly accepting homosexuality in every way make a better society? I guess it would for the small percentage of homosexuals. Like I said, if they want to be gay that’s their business. But again, don’t try to force it to be accepted by everyone. Gay couples marrying, and raising kids…kids that they can’t even produce naturally themselves (between the two). That right there tells you it’s messed up. Please don’t try to convince me to change my mind on this topic. It’s not going to happen. I have read on the subject, and listened to a lot of arguments for both sides. It’s simply the way I feel…just as you feel the way you do.
Peace
February 12th, 2010 at 12:56 am
What does showering or sharing a room have anything to do with anything?? we are missing the point here. Stevo. I assume you would have a problem with having a co-ed anything, gym, showers,etc, does it make you uncofortable to be naked?? or see anyone else naked for that matter. BTW - I could care less if you accept it or not and yes you are so right it is your given right and so it’s ours and that is what we are asking for. equal rights. sorry if this threatens you. NO ONE is trying to push anything on anyone but hell it’s about time we stand up for what and who we are. Society has come a long way, time to join in Stevo. The sad part about this is that you served in the military which doesnt give them a good rep with your thinking. Which btw its the reason why I didnt join. Not only was I willing to give my life for the country and they come up with this Bull#$@. My sexuality is mine and that is the way it will stay. lol “what if being straight was weird and us gays were to be the normal ones”. I hope you dont have kids, I would feel sorry for them and embarrased to have a narrow minded father.
February 12th, 2010 at 1:04 am
How does openly accepting homosexuality in every way make a better society? you ask??
Why dont you tell me how if affects you or society??
bottom line, I firmly believe Steve that all boils down to you being uncofortable with yourself/sexualy and your body.
NOTHING TO DO WITH ANYONE ELSE’S SEXUAL PREFERENCES.
I find it Hysterical when guys gay or straight cover themselves with a towel as if they had a treasured to protect.. it only draws attention to yourself. either you have a small Peepe or something you really want me to see. (ok ok, I am getting of the base here). Moving on.
February 12th, 2010 at 1:06 am
Victor,
The way you feel is your problem, not mine…or anyone in my family for that matter. They feel the same way. Majority of people do. You just live in a fantasy world, where everyone gets along. The world doesn’t work like that. Some things should not be acceptable. This is one of them.
February 12th, 2010 at 1:09 am
“bottom line, I firmly believe Steve that all boils down to you being uncofortable with yourself/sexualy and your body.”
Nice try. Psychology 101.
Not at all. I don’t have a single problem with my sexuality. I am considered very good looking by many a woman, and men. I am smart, have a good job…I have no insecurites like that. Homosexuality is wrong to me. Therefore, I don’t support it. Simple as that. I think maybe you have some tendencies, or are gay maybe? Bothering you a bit?
February 12th, 2010 at 1:20 am
Steve,
I am flat out gay! no tendencies here. I am GAY! and damn proud of it. I find it fun to deal with people like you. insecurity is not charming or very becoming of a MEN! lol
why do you keep coming back to this site?? closeth case?? why doesnt bother you that some men consider you good looking?? welcome to the club Stevo. We are making progress!
Why am I not suprised that your family feels the same way. God makes them and they get together. (read into it)
February 12th, 2010 at 1:52 am
Good for you man. If it works for you, great. It’s just not for a majority of the population. Never will be.
Why does it not bother me that some men think I’m good looking? Because they are 100% straight, and can simply look at me, and say “yeah, you’re a good lookin’ dude.” Hell, I look at someone like Brad Pitt, and say, “yeah, he’s a good lookin’ dude.” He is.
But it’s different when a gay man looks at you, and you’re straight. They look at me, like I look at a hot chick. I mean, I can even appreciate a compliment coming from a gay man…if it was just a compliment. But they look at me like they are “interested” (even when it’s clear I’m not interested), and that’s a little more than just a compliment.
It may be hard for you to understand what I’m saying, since you are gay. But maybe you could also try putting yourself in a straight man’s shoes for a second, and see how that could be a little off-putting. I had to call some gay dude out in the middle of a store one time. He kept staring at me, smiling, while the guy he was holding hands with was looking the other way. I mean, I was just looking around the store, and everytime I glanced over that way, he was deadlocked on me. I had to say (from two lines over), “quit staring at me, I’m not gay.” He face turned beat red, and he quit staring. But damn, I gave zero signal to him that I was interested in any way shape or form.
I love how you try to discredit me with the old “you must not be secure with your sexuality.” I am very secure with it. Are you trying to say that the millions upon millions of people that vote down same sex marriage etc. are ALL insecure with their sexuality? No, they aren’t. Hell, even California, a pretty liberal state, voted it down.
Not trying to offend you. I just don’t agree with your chosen lifestyle. You can lead it though, no one is going to stop you. It’s your life to lead. But don’t expect it to be openly accepted everywhere you go. It’s just not going to happen.
February 12th, 2010 at 2:06 am
No offense taken, doesnt bother me one bit. The only thing that is bothersome some not well chosen words such. such as the lifestyle we’ve chosen.
IT’S NOT A CHOICE! people dont understand that.
I do place myself and face myself in your position every single day. Women hitting on me. doesnt bother me at all. it is what it is. let it go.
It is a natural thing for straight or gay to flirt. married or not. so the gay guy that was hitting on you found you attractive, so what. move on. Did you really have to embarrased him? Think about it. what if a woman would of call you out like that? be cool. stay cool and keep an open mind.
February 12th, 2010 at 4:13 am
Yeah, but unlike some guys, I pick up on a hint from a woman if she’s not interested. He should have picked up on that too. But being a dude, he’s aggressive, just like we straight guys are with women. And like some straight dudes, they don’t always get the hint.
You stay cool too.
April 21st, 2010 at 3:37 am
What does being gay have to do with anything. I was raise by gay men and there is nothing wrong with it. People who say that being gay is wrong and is frowned upon are ignorant. Why can’t you just allow people to be happy. Thats what everyone else is doing for you!
September 5th, 2010 at 11:02 am
Wow Steve, way to express your embarrassingly outdated opinions and then label it as that of the “majority.” Thank you so much for putting words into the mouths of every single other “straight person,” and without any evidence, unanimously declare them as having opinions that equate to yours. Are you in the military? How can you claim to know how the “majority” of the people feel in the military? How can you make the ridiculous conjecture that, given that they continually sacrifice, and at anytime, may sacrifice their lives, that their greatest fear/discomfort is showering with someone whose sexual preference is different from their own? Oh, and by the way, your homophobic tendencies are showing. No matter how you try to distance yourself from that term, it’s obvious that you are, judging by your last post, considering that you just characterized a whole group of people as desperate enough to hit on you. You’re the type to probably never get out, yet still make inflammatory remarks based on a group of people that you’ve never even met before. Oh, and by the way, statistics show that Prop 8, would not have been made into law if it were proposed today. The only reason it passed is before the Mormons put millions and millions into the fund that supported Prop 8.
September 5th, 2010 at 11:08 am
“Not trying to offend you. I just don’t agree with your chosen lifestyle. You can lead it though, no one is going to stop you. It’s your life to lead. But don’t expect it to be openly accepted everywhere you go. It’s just not going to happen.”
Oh no, we’re not asking for that, because God forbid THAT happens right? All we want is to be OPEN about who we are. Of course we can’t FORCE people to accept that it’s right, but it should NOT be grounds for someone to be discharged given everything else, because, obviously, with the cases coming up, high ranking officers are being discharged for sexuality ALONE while their performances have been stellar. That makes no sense, and pretty much defeats any notion of a correlation between skill and sexuality.
September 5th, 2010 at 11:13 am
“I had to say (from two lines over), “quit staring at me, I’m not gay.” He face turned beat red, and he quit staring. But damn, I gave zero signal to him that I was interested in any way shape or form.”
Well duh, did you actually expect gays to have a built-in gaydar? How else are gays supposed to tell if someone is gay? Wanna make a law mandating that gay men must wear rainbow colored accessories and have a lisp and limp wrists?
And also, you have no proof that that guy was gay - maybe you had something hang off your face or something else that triggered him to look. Way to be arrogant and assume and any guy that looks at you is interested in you. Maybe he turned red from the implications or your response, or how untactful your response was.
September 5th, 2010 at 11:21 am
“It may be hard for you to understand what I’m saying, since you are gay.”
How condescendingly catty. I would say the same to you: “It’s hard for you to understand why gays want basic rights, ’cause you’re straight,” but I know straight people who aren’t that close-minded. So it’s all good.
“They look at me, like I look at a hot chick… But maybe you could also try putting yourself in a straight man’s shoes for a second, and see how that could be a little off-putting.”
Oh? How about the multiple times gays have to tell straight females that they’re “not interested?” You don’t see them complaining about that, do you? Right, because this is still a male, heterosexually dominated society and gays have to conform to YOUR beliefs, which means it’s acceptable for “hot chicks” (as you so eloquently put it) to hit on gays without any feeling of discomfort or awkwardness whatsoever. Newsflash: gays have to put themselves in “a straight man’s shoes” every day. “Your” relationships are constantly validated by every single thing and we have conform to every whim of “your” standards. Maybe YOU should drink your own poison and put YOURSELF in someone else’s shoes for a change, but obviously I’m talking to a brick wall here.