Same Sex Partners:
Since Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell was repealed it is no longer taboo to be open about your sexuality. Service members no longer have to worry they will lose their career if their command meets their partner. And of course more and more states are legalizing gay marriage, so it’s not just partners but spouses that are at command events.
But Sarah, an Army National Guard wife, says people are still surprised when she says wife instead of husband when talking about her spouse of 4 years. “I would say same-sex military spouses have a hard time fitting in and making friends in the military community. Until recently we didn’t have the same benefits and access to the bases. It can make you feel very shut out. And while it’s great to have the equal benefits, now there is still the concern about what others will say about your relationship.”
Danielle and Jordan, a dual military and same-sex couple echoed that feeling. They were together before DADT was repealed and Jordan said it was much harder than expected to keep their relationship a secret. Both of their careers would be on the line if they were found out. Now being able to be open about it, Danielle encourages other same-sex couples not to let others’ opinions affect your marriage. I think that is advice ANY married couple should keep in mind.
