31

'Gay' not security risk in AF, sex expert says

HAMPTON, Va. (P) An Air Force discharge board was told yesterday T. Sgt. Leonard P. Matlovich, a homosexual, would not be a security risk or pervert other servicemen if permitted to remain in the military.

The testimony came from Dr. John W. Money, a psychologist and expert on sexuality, on the third day of a hearing on Matlovich's challenge to the armed forces' traditional ban on homosexuals.

After Money's two hours of testimony, a smiling Matlovich emerged from the hearing room and said he felt more confident he

will be permitted to stay in the Air Force.

"Things seem to be going very well now," said the decorated veteran. “I'm much more optimistic than in the past. The hearing has been extremely fair and impartial."

The defense has indicated it will wind up its case today, and a court source said a decision could come later in the day.

"Once the die is cast, it's impossible to turn the clock back" sexually, Money said, because sexual preference is determined by the age of 5 or 6.