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You ask the question, “From what foundation is the military basing this opinion?” It may indirectly have some foundation in the Bible, but the true answer is homophobia.
In the civilian world, laws and rules are generally made by the majority to suit the majority. In the military, commanders at different levels make the rules. What they have in common is the rule-makers are homophobic. This idea or doctrine has been taught to kids as a society norm for many generations. Only time and education will undo it.
I agree with you that it “is a blatant form of prejudice.” I would add it is also outright discrimination. But, as a heterosexual homophobic male, I can live it. Why? Until I went through a Women and Gender Studies class this summer, I didn’t even know the word homophobic. I know now I am homophobic. I have 44 years of homophobic brainwashing instilled in my character.
I am also a combat veteran with 21 years of military service. Generally, I have never had an issue with homosexuals or lesbians, as long as they were not disturbing me and not in my business. The close quarters and tight confines you must sometimes operate from for extended periods of time in the military, especially in combat, are too much for me to deal with if I know the man or men with me might have a sexual interest in other men. Pure homophobia.
I also know from experience that having a suspected homosexual on your maintenance team does have a detrimental effect on the overall team morale, cohesion and performance. The extra issues it presents in leadership are also unnecessary and preventable with this policy. Let those in uniform decide if and when “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” should go away. It will eventually be obsolete as public opinion changes.
Think about this: 100 years ago there were living people who were slaves at one time. There are living people right now who remember when it was a crime for a mixed race couple to have sex or attempt to get married. Maybe in your lifetime people will only remember when others were discriminated against because of their sexual preference.
 
James King is a retired sergeant first class and a freshman political science major.