Service members stand together, embodying the strength and diversity of our armed forces as they celebrate a step towards equality.
President Biden’s recent decision to pardon former gay service members dishonorably discharged for their sexual orientation is a bold move that demands our attention. However, this long-overdue correction of past injustices is undeniably a positive step for our country, the timing—right on the cusp of his reelection campaign—reeks of political grandstanding.
As a former Navy SEAL, I’ve witnessed firsthand the sacrifices made by my fellow service members, including my fellow SEAL teammate, Brett Jones, and it’s infuriating to see these brave individuals used as pawns in a political game.
This action should have come much sooner, highlighting a glaring opportunism (a big problem in modern U.S. politics) that cannot be ignored.
It’s also why I think career politicians like Biden should be sent to a remote part of Afghanistan with a box of MRE’s (Meals Ready to Eat) and left to fend for themselves.
For years, LGBTQ+ advocates have fought tirelessly for this moment. Yet, it took until now, on the brink of a heated reelection battle against Trump, for this administration to act.
Why wasn’t this crucial step taken sooner? Why wait until the final hour before seeking a second term to right this wrong?
The answer seems clear: political grandstanding.
By pardoning these service members now, Biden’s administration is attempting to solidify his support base among LGBTQ+ voters and progressives.
The military has a long and complicated history with LGBTQ+ service members. The repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” in 2011 was a landmark victory, but it didn’t erase the scars left by years of discrimination. Thousands were forced out of service, their careers and lives upended simply because of who they loved. These pardons are a step toward healing, but they should have come much sooner.
As a former Navy SEAL, I understand the importance of unity and trust within the ranks. Discrimination, in any form, undermines the very fabric of our armed forces.
The pardoning of former gay service members is a move in the right direction, but the timing of this is also a reminder that while progress is being made, it often comes at the convenience of those in power.
It’s up to all of us to hold our elected leaders accountable and ensure that no one is ever forced to choose between their identity and their duty again.
President Biden’s recent decision to pardon former gay service members dishonorably discharged for their sexual orientation is a bold move that demands our attention. However, this long-overdue correction of past injustices is undeniably a positive step for our country, the timing—right on the cusp of his reelection campaign—reeks of political grandstanding.
As a former Navy SEAL, I’ve witnessed firsthand the sacrifices made by my fellow service members, including my fellow SEAL teammate, Brett Jones, and it’s infuriating to see these brave individuals used as pawns in a political game.
This action should have come much sooner, highlighting a glaring opportunism (a big problem in modern U.S. politics) that cannot be ignored.
It’s also why I think career politicians like Biden should be sent to a remote part of Afghanistan with a box of MRE’s (Meals Ready to Eat) and left to fend for themselves.
For years, LGBTQ+ advocates have fought tirelessly for this moment. Yet, it took until now, on the brink of a heated reelection battle against Trump, for this administration to act.
Why wasn’t this crucial step taken sooner? Why wait until the final hour before seeking a second term to right this wrong?
The answer seems clear: political grandstanding.
By pardoning these service members now, Biden’s administration is attempting to solidify his support base among LGBTQ+ voters and progressives.
The military has a long and complicated history with LGBTQ+ service members. The repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” in 2011 was a landmark victory, but it didn’t erase the scars left by years of discrimination. Thousands were forced out of service, their careers and lives upended simply because of who they loved. These pardons are a step toward healing, but they should have come much sooner.
As a former Navy SEAL, I understand the importance of unity and trust within the ranks. Discrimination, in any form, undermines the very fabric of our armed forces.
The pardoning of former gay service members is a move in the right direction, but the timing of this is also a reminder that while progress is being made, it often comes at the convenience of those in power.
It’s up to all of us to hold our elected leaders accountable and ensure that no one is ever forced to choose between their identity and their duty again.
As we reflect on this moment, let’s honor those who were wronged by standing firm in our commitment to equality and by demanding genuine, timely actions from our leaders—not just when it serves their political interests.
As someone who’s seen what happens when the truth is distorted, I know how unfair it feels when those who’ve sacrificed the most lose their voice. At SOFREP, our veteran journalists, who once fought for freedom, now fight to bring you unfiltered, real-world intel. But without your support, we risk losing this vital source of truth. By subscribing, you’re not just leveling the playing field—you’re standing with those who’ve already given so much, ensuring they continue to serve by delivering stories that matter. Every subscription means we can hire more veterans and keep their hard-earned knowledge in the fight. Don’t let their voices be silenced. Please consider subscribing now.
One team, one fight,
Brandon Webb former Navy SEAL, Bestselling Author and Editor-in-Chief
Barrett is the world leader in long-range, large-caliber, precision rifle design and manufacturing. Barrett products are used by civilians, sport shooters, law enforcement agencies, the United States military, and more than 75 State Department-approved countries around the world.
PO Box 1077 MURFREESBORO, Tennessee 37133 United States
Scrubba Wash Bag
Our ultra-portable washing machine makes your journey easier. This convenient, pocket-sized travel companion allows you to travel lighter while helping you save money, time and water.
Our roots in shooting sports started off back in 1996 with our founder and CEO, Josh Ungier. His love of airguns took hold of our company from day one and we became the first e-commerce retailer dedicated to airguns, optics, ammo, and accessories. Over the next 25 years, customers turned to us for our unmatched product selection, great advice, education, and continued support of the sport and airgun industry.
COMMENTS
There are
You must become a subscriber or login to view or post comments on this article.