THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Friday, July 22, 1994 TAG: 9407220018
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A12 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 34 lines
Lt. j.g. Tracy Thorne eloquently extols the ``right'' military and patriotic virtues that are cornerstones of our armed forces. He fails to address the legitimate point at hand.
Because Thorne and Lt. j.g. Dirk Selland knew of the existing policy against homosexuality in the military, their military careers indicate that they kept their chosen orientation secret, which is tantamount to lying. I cannot respect that.
Sad to say, they are trying to use the court of public emotion to have a policy changed to fit their lifestyle. As officers, they were to set the example for us to follow. While their resolve to stand up for what they think is right is commendable, their methods will undermine and deteriorate the respect and discipline that the chain of command had commanded. I cannot respect that.
Lt. (j.g.) Thorne's assertion that he ``didn't choose to be gay'' fails on several fronts. There is no credible evidence (except by those who wish to further the homosexual cause) that this deviant lifestyle is inherited or biological. It remains a rebellious and defiant submission to deviant temptation.
PAUL H. HOWDEN
Senior chief, U.S. Navy
Portsmouth, July 14, 1994 by CNB