Troops March in San Diego’s Gay Pride Parade

http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2011/07/16/us/AP-US-Military-Gay-Pride.html?_r=1&ref=us

Troops March in San Diego’s Gay Pride Parade
By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Published: July 16, 2011 at 5:30 PM ET

SAN DIEGO (AP) — About 200 active-duty troops and veterans wearing T-shirts advertising their branch of service marched Saturday in San Diego's gay pride parade with American flags and rainbow banners, marking what is believed to be the first time a military contingent has participated in such an event in the U.S.

Many of the active-duty troops said they were moved to come out because it is time to end the military's ban on openly gay troops. The march comes a day after a federal appeals court reinstated "don't ask, don't tell" but with a caveat that prevents the government from investigating or penalizing anyone who is openly gay.

National Guard member Nichole Herrera, 31, said she didn't think twice about marching, even though the policy is back on the books. She said she was "choked up" several times as she walked down a main thoroughfare in San Diego, a major Navy port.

"This is one of the proudest days in my life. It's time for it (the policy) to be gone," Herrera said. "I'm a soldier no matter what, regardless of my sexual orientation."...

:applause:

That Constitution we swear/affirm to preserve, protect and defend says "We the People". Nuff said

:patriot:

But it's unfortunate that who they are attracted to makes them somehow unfit for serving their country according to the PTB.

How unbelievably effin' stupid is that?

_want_ to put their lives on the line for their country is completely illogical.

Millions of dollars are spent, valuable time is spent bring the individual up to speed, then turn around, boot the asset and start all over again.

You're right; it's pathological.

:banghead: