DADT Nonsense

I never want this blog to become primarily about politics or even advocacy around particular issues… but sometimes the topics are unavoidable.

Yesterday, Republican Senators — led by John McCain — filibustered a military funding bill that also included the reversal of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy.  What was most striking about the filibuster is that (a) the military brass generally supports the change, and (b) the change is pretty much inevitable (as shown by the recent Federal appeals court ruling).  So the only upside to the filibuster, apparently, is political.  That is, Republicans seem to think that being anti-gay is good politics.  Bizarre!

But here is the part I don’t get and wish someone could explain to me: how is forcing young men and women in our military to lie to their peers and superiors possibly good for unit cohesion, troop morale or national security?

We know that gay people serve in the military now. But in theory, you don’t know who might be gay or lesbian? (so it could be anyone).  How is this a better scenario for homophobic troops who are terrified of being around gay people?  I don’t quite get the argument?

Anyone want to help me out with this one?