JUST DON'T DO IT

For some time, as many of you must also be doing, I have watched the debate regarding the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" and the idea of acceptance of gays and lesbians in the military. I simply do not understand why this subject is so controversial.

Are opponents afraid that some gay or lesbian is going to pop out of the shadows in a military barracks and force his or her sexual attentions on some poor straight? If a heterosexual attempted rape or molestation on some victim, he would be quickly brought up for court martial and either imprisoned or dishonorably discharged. The same should happen if a gay or lesbian were stupid enough to pull such a stunt.

As a heterosexual, I do not want to know what happens in your bedroom or for you to know what goes on in mine. It is a totally private matter between two willing participants. Why not the same for gays? I must add that I do not like to see gay parades where sexual actions are parodied or simulated for the same reason---it's no one's business and it's strictly private.

If a gay or lesbian volunteers for military service and meets the physical and mental standards required for service, he or she should be accepted---without questions regarding sexual orientation. So long as a person meets the standards and serves honorably, that is all that matters. In the British armed forces, for example, gays and lesbians have served for years, and I'm sure it is true for many other foreign military forces.

We have enough trouble today trying to find enough volunteers for service. Why should we exclude persons willing and able to serve, whose private lives are their business, just as the lives of straights are supposed to be?

Don't ask---and forget the "Don't Tell" part! We live in a country which reputedly respects individual rights (though I sometimes wonder). Why is this such a big deal? Come on, America, live and let live!