In its broader implications, what does the military position concerning homosexuality imply? Does it mean that the military Establishment has taken upon itself decisions which it has neither the scientific, legal or moral right to make?

Any informed person knows that there is no scientific evidence that homosexuals, per se, are undesireable, or that they are poor military risks. The military records of thousands of homosexuals point to just the opposite conclusion.

But, do the military have no such legal right? Is this not a pretty bold claim? Far from being bold, it is overly moderate. The utter illegality of the entire military position and its conduct toward homosexuals is quite without defensible legal authority.

Where in the Constitution can warrant be found for their procedures? Where, in legal theory and precedent is there support for judging individuals as to their class or status? Law may never be permitted to concern itself other than with acts. It may not, it cannot, rule upon matters of religion, of political or social views, of skin color or any other factors which are the mark of an individual's status and condition.

The question as to his sex orientation is, therefore, wholly illegal, quite without Constitutional support within our American system of government and is a disgraceful blot upon our military services. Yet, these services expect us to accord them both honor and confidence.

One of these days some courageous homophile is going to stand up and say, "I refuse to answer such a question. It is my moral right to so refuse. You are immoral to ask it. As an American I am willing to serve my country but it must be on the same terms as those accorded all other Americans. I deny your right to classify me as some sort of second-class citizen. In the name of my country, the United States of America, I demand that you live up to American standards of human rights and of law. This you are not doing, so long as you discriminate against me and my kind. You may not ask me such a question."

Is it fantastic to think that this ever might happen? Is it nonsense to ask, in such a case, who might be the true patriot? Homophiles today are asking such questions. They expect to have honest answers from their government. So far, these they have not had.

Richard Conger, Editor

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