Dorian

For some reason you have focused on the Arabic linguists, which is fine.

However there were 73 linguists discharged from DLI alone, and according to the GAO report
“757 troops with ‘critical occupations’ were fired under the policy. These included voice interceptors, interrogators, translators, Explosive Ordinance Disposal Specialists, signal intelligence analysts, and missile and crypto logic technicians.”

322 fired service members had skills in what the military deems ‘an important foreign language.

You and I can both do the math as to how much these losses translate into taxpayers' dollars.

“I just question why the Arabic linguist problem is always framed as a gay issue”

Sorry that my posts and all the other articles cited did not make it clear that the issue is not just about Arabic linguists, not just about linguists in general, not just about all othe “critical skills” involved, but about two policies that in the eye of some people are questionable/. Others find them perfectly acceptable.

That's what is called democracy and freedom of speech/opinion..

Thanks for yours.

I am fine with gays in the military by the way, I just question why the Arabic linguist problem is always framed as a gay issue when from a common sense standpoint it shouldn't be. The NYT article implies it's because DLI is 2 hours from San Francisco, but I don't buy that.

And, in February, 2005, a GAO report was released that included figures dating back to 1994 and which showed that “757 troops with ‘critical occupations’ were fired under the policy. These included voice interceptors, interrogators, translators, Explosive Ordinance Disposal Specialists, signal intelligence analysts, and missile and crypto logic technicians. Three hundred twenty-two fired service members had skills in what the military deems ‘an important foreign language.’”

“That blog post” provides sources for the figures. But, first chance, will try to retireve them for you

Thanks

Dorian

I would like to see some real numbers from credible sources on this. The link here just goes to another blog post.

With a draft the need to fill the ranks is practically eliminated. Lowering standards that would then Allow Gays, foreign passport holders, ect., becomes irrelevant and by and large unnecessary.

1. Is the military kicking out EOD personnel or linguist at a higher rate than kicking out medics or personnel clerks? Or did the militant homosexual activist just jump on the issue.

2. Are those with valuable training such as farsi, urdu, or arabic speakers using claims of homosexuality to get out and take jobs with DoD/CIA contractors where they will be paid much higher and not subject to military discipline? Having language skills, intelligence background, and a TS clearance is incredibility valuable. Are they claiming to be homosexual just to get out like several physicians have claimed to be conscientious objectors just as they finish their residency?

Dorian

I immigrated to the United States at the age of 17 from the Netherlands.

Immediately upon reaching my 18th birthday, I enlisted in the U.S. Air Force.

In those days, the 50s, a legal immigrant could join the U.S. armed forces upon signing a “declaration of intent” to become a U.S. citizen.

Serving in the U.S. armed forces also expedited one’s path to citizenship to three years of military service instead of five years of residence. I took advantage of that great opportunity and I am still enjoying the blessings.

Hold on to these thoughts.”

so poignant

thanks dorian

dr.e