Navy Vet concerned about safety, not sexuality

 President Barack Obama spoke to the nation in his first State of the Union Address Jan. 27. With so many events that have occurred in this country within the past 12 months, our newly appointed Commander-in-Chief had a lot of subject matter before him.

During his address, Obama spoke about the military's so-called "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy. This practice was originally put in place during former President Bill Clinton's Administration in 1993 for the protection of  homosexuals serving in the military and those wanting to serve.

"This year, I will work with Congress and our military to finally repeal the law that denies gay Americans the right to serve the country they love because of who they are," Obama said.  

"It's the right thing to do."

This was followed by a statement made earlier, citing that "America must always stand on the side of freedom and human dignity…always."

 As a U.S. Navy veteran who has served overseas in hostile waters, I couldn't agree with him [Obama] more.

One's sexual preference or orientation does not somehow degrade his or her quality of service, nor should it disqualify any citizen who has a desire to serve. 

A sailor, soldier, whether enlisted or an officer, signs an agreement to serve and protect the country, even if it means putting one's life on the line.

The last thing that would ever come to my mind during the heat of battle is whether my shipmate is gay.  

 The President's message of change and empowerment has not wavered, and one of the topics that was mentioned was the strength through unity that our nation experienced during and after the Sept. 11 attacks. 

"Throughout our history, no issue has united this country more than our security," Obama said.  

This is a statement that all parties can agree on.

Nearly 10 years ago, our country suffered the worst terrorist attacks ever.

In the aftermath of the Sept. 11 attacks, a hand to hold and a shoulder to lean on were necessary for the healing and the unification of a country grieved with trauma. 

And it was at that point that our differences, including a person's sexual orientation, seemed trivial.

I was on active duty during those infamous attacks and some of the men and women that I served beside were tasked with rescue and assist work at Ground Zero. From the eyes of the people who benefitted from their presence, they saw not the sexual preference of the armed service member helping them, only the patriotism it took to stand in the shoes of a true hero.

I am proud of my President for taking a stand against ignorance and leading this country to once again "start anew, to carry the dream forward, and to strengthen our union once more."