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An issue that is weighing heavily on the U.S. military is, should openly gay individuals be able to serve.

If you take away the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy, then take away the fraternization policy (Army Regulation 600-20). Building strong leaders should be the focus of our military, not this distraction that is going to kill cohesion and possibly servicemembers due to lack of focus in combat (concurrence with Marine Gen. John Sheehan).

I am a heterosexual; I do not introduce myself as one. When an individual makes the decision to serve in the U.S. military, he or she gives an oath to this great country. I don’t recall that oath ever stating that you will make your sexual preference publicly known. In brief, it states you will follow orders and defend this great country against enemies, foreign and domestic.

Change the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy to maintain personnel strength. Keep your personal life personal.

Staff Sgt. Massimo IrenzeCamp Arifjan, Kuwait

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