An Open Letter from Gay and Lesbian Military Academy Alumni

We board members of the Service Academy Gay and Lesbian Association (SAGALA) represent over 400 gay and lesbian Academy alumni, and many centuries of service to our country. The identities of some of our members are anonymous because they serve on active duty today—some in harm’s way. The “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy is a constant threat to them, and is a hindrance to unit cohesion and teamwork throughout our military.

We applaud President Obama’s strong statement in his State of the Union address, in which he said, “This year, I will work with Congress” to end this destructive policy. As Academy graduates who have served or are serving the United States of America , we know that this change in policy will enhance military readiness and pride.

“Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” is an expensive distraction. While we are fighting two wars, all of our men and women in uniform deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. 

Yes, President Obama, now is the time to allow our gay servicemembers to stop looking over their shoulders. This is the year to end DADT. We stand ready to support you, our Commander-in-Chief, as best we can.

Jeff Petrie, USNA ‘89, former LT , US Navy

Sue Fulton, USMA ‘80, former CPT , US Army

Paul Morris, USMA ‘80, former CPT , US Army

Jennifer D. Oliva, USMA ‘96, former CPT , US Army

Name withheld due to DADT, USMA, CPT , US Army

Name withheld due to DADT, USCGA ‘00, LCdr , US Coast Guard

Name withheld due to DADT, USAFA ’87, LTC , US Air Force

SAGALA (Service Academy Gay and Lesbian Association) is an organization of gay and lesbian alumni of US service academies, including the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the US Naval Academy at Annapolis , the US Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs , CO , the US Coast Guard Academy in New London , CT , and the US Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point.  SAGALA was formed in 1993.