When did you join the military?
In 1971 doing the Vietnam War as a medical corpwoman I was 19 yrs old. I served before Don't Ask, Don't Tell. No I didn't even know at the time what gayness was at the time. However, it was explained to me during Basic Training and I was still confused. My mother was against me joining because she was afraid of, "those dikes" and me becoming one, but never explained what one was. At the time I was a loner and wasn't interested in being with anyone, I had trust issues.
How Did the Military Policy Affect You?
After I finished basic I was sent to Denver, for my first full assignment. I was put in a barracks that was know for it's lesbian personal. I was still confused about the subject, until I met the woman who became my best friend and she explained it to me. During my four years there, I was attacked by this other woman but I stood up to her let her know I was not gay and that if she messed with me I would beat her with a broomstick.
However, later I realized I had strong feelings for my best friend but I never let her know how I felt. She knew I loved her, but she thought it was like a sister love, and me I didn't understand but, I knew. I dreamed about being with her. I came out in 1999 after the death of my mother, and after my children left home. I did get married in 1978 to a man and had two kids. We are still together, but this time as friends. I do have two children a girl and boy, both gay. I would join the army again as a gay individual this time.
Advice
- Yes, as a gay individual.
- I would advise them to be themselves, just don't force yourself on others. No different for anyone else.
- The impact was that I hide who I really was once I found out so I lost out on love.
- It gave me my life and education.
- Free healthcare and disability.
- 2-yrs of Retirement.
- I want DADT to be repealed.
