Let's End DADT NOW!

I understand many might not agree, but let me bend an ear for a moment. These are men and women already serving our country but who have to keep their lives secret. While their fellow sailors and soldiers, officers and enlisted, can have friendly chats about kids and their families, commiserate about relationship problems, and get support during a break up or for the loss of a partner, the gays and lesbians in our armed services must remain quiet. They cannot share the joy of a new commitment nor even the birth of a child without fear of being outed. They even must be more than discreet about going on a date for fear that someone will see a hand being held or a kiss exchanged. Despite the public statement the military will not accept outings by others, it happens all the time, ruining careers and even making future employment difficult (this is not an honorable discharge.)

The LBGT community doesn't seek special treatment, merely equal treatment in honor of their willingness to serve. Don't we owe them that much?