Anonymous Marine

“I do worry a lot about being outed and kicked out.  So far the military has been my livelyhood and my source of work/income for the past 6 years.  I don’t want that all taken away from me and me being discharged anything but honorably.” These sentiments are echoed by countless service members serving in silence, but for this anonymous Marine serving in Afghanistan they hit particularly hard.  ”We face the same challenges as all other “straight” deployed Marines or soldiers but with extra burden.  I feel at times that I have split personalities or I live a double life.” Born in New York City and raised in Florida, he joined for many of the same reasons all Americans do. For the challenge, patriotic duty, and to help fight against the war on terrorism. Though he continues to serve proudly, the unnecessary burden of living under DADT is beginning to take it’s toll. Though until DADT is repealed, the courage and bravery of our gay and lesbian service members will take a backseat to bigotry.