As we here in the States are seeing an average of 2 enlisted people a day being persecuted by the US Government for openly and honestly talking about their sexuality, it was fantastic to come across a Tweet from The Advocate Magazine about the cover story for Soldier - the Official Magazine of the British Army. Handsome and proud, Trooper James Wharton graces the cover and in a feature article entitled Equal Partners. Tpr Wharton is a 6-year veteran in military service, and have been serving as an out gay man for the last 4 years. Accompanying the article are a few pictures, including one of Tpr Wharton marching - in uniform - as part of of a group of enlisted soldiers - at the London Gay Pride March. They also mention he is in line for a promotion [not a court martial], and will soon be a lance corporal.
Interestingly, the magazine allows Trooper Wharton to make a comment about the policy of the American armed services. “I still can’t get my head round the US’ ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ policy,” said Tpr Wharton, who has served Queen and country for six years. Luckily I don’t have to deal with it, but clearly there will be gay soldiers in the US Army who are not being themselves – they aren’t allowed to be.”It is an interesting article that seems to actively take on some of the myths and misconceptions about gays in the military, as well as in general. Nice to see the British Army taking that on, unlike our own armed services, who spend time and money to discharge qualified and patriotic men and women who want nothing more than to be of service to our country. You can read the complete article here.
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