Gays in the military - what happens on a draft?

Question

I am a gay man. I don't hide it, I don't flaunt it. If someone asks, I tell. I don't announce it on the handshake. By meeting me, you would not know until you had some discussions with me at length.

I agree with Clinton's policy of "Don't ask, don't tell." It's a way to allow those who are homosexual and want to be in the military, the chance to do so. It also creates an environment that is comfortable for the straight people who have to shower in large groups together. No one knows, no one cares.

However, I would like to pose the question of the draft. If a draft were instituted, do you think homosexual men would be exempt for flaunting their lifestyle?

Most gay men would be the ideal targets, from a paperwork standpoint, for a draft. Young, single, no children. What do you think would happen if there were a draft? (Ignorant or foolish comments? Try just answering the question.)

Answer 1

Wow, what an excellent hypothetical scenario.

I'm claiming they wouldn't be allowed to fight, though. It'd cause problems the military just can't handle. I'm betting if a draft was instituted, mad heads would be claiming they were gay to get out of fighting. Wouldn't that be a sociological phenomenon! Families would start condoning homosexuality to keep their sons out of harm's way-- and before you know it, it's mainstreamed and marriages are legal... the possibilities are endless.

$h!t, that'd be dope. I vote this best question yet.

Answer 2

First, there is not going to be a draft. It would have to be instituted by Congress and it is not politically feasible despite what Charles Rangel is doing.

Second, the "don't ask, don't tell" policy would apply. If you keep it a secret, I would assume that you would be drafted as normal. If you flaunt it, I would assume you would be among those considered Class 4-F: "Registrant not acceptable for military service. To be eligible for Class 4-F, a registrant must have been found not qualified for service in the Armed Forces by a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) under the established physical, mental, or moral standards. The standards of physical fitness that would be used in a future draft remain undefined. Openly admitted homosexual males are not allowed to serve in the American military."

Answer 3

You and the people who have provide some very detailed and well thought out answers seem to be missing the premise of your question....or else I am. If your question is would gays be exempt for flaunting...no. Acting gay is not proof and may not make you every ones buddy but you won't be exempt.

If during the induction process of the draft you volunteer to the induction center personnel, you will be on your way to being rejected for service. It will take more than just saying your gay, but it will be investigated. It has nothing to do with Don't Ask Don't Tell because they didn't ask.

Answer 4

Being openly gay and being gay are 2 different things. The military has a "don't ask don't tell pilocy" so just the fact that one is gay wouldn't prevent them from being drafted.

Answer 5

The military would have to hold to it's current policy. I mean if they don't allow ppl who like to be openly gay now then they suddenly can't just change their rules for a draft. That wouldn't be eithical.

Answer 6

All those who meet physical and mental standards will be inducted, regardless who they have sex with. Once in the service the "Don't ask, don't tell" policy starts. Someone who violates this policy will be process like they are today.

Answer 7

On draft day everyone is gay

Answer 8

I bet they would be exempt...not that I agree with it, but it is "don't ask, don't tell.." or maybe the government should re-word it as "Don't ask, don't tell, don't be flamboyant".. That is a tricky hypothetical question... American society puts too much emphasis on sexual orientation.

Answer 9

There is not going to be a draft so your question is irrelevant.