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Editor:
As a student of mathematics, I am embarrassed to be associated with people such as John Keisling. As a human, I am horrified by his sexist and homophobic views. If people like him were very few and far between (and had no power whatsoever), he might be laughable. But, unfortunately, ignorant bigots of that sort exist in enough numbers (and often in powerful positions - such as Newt Gingrich) that they are much worse than pitiful. They are dangerous, especially for those of us concerned with civil rights.
In contrasting Clinton and Dole, Keisling states, "Clinton wants women and gays in combat; Dole wants a strong national defense." Implicit in this statement is the implication that women and gays weaken the military. I served as a combat MP in the U.S. Army and found that none of my duties required (in any way) any form of male reproductive anatomy. In fact, I passed the physical readiness test far beyond the standards set for men. As for the written test, few men performed at my high level. Also, I knew many gays while in the military who were considered by the military to be outstanding soldiers.
In closing, I must say that I believe that the biggest weakness in the U.S. military in terms of personnel is the bigots in the military. They do not work well with others, they have a negative attitude and they let their prejudices get in the way of their duties.
Julie C. Tarr
graduate student, applied mathematics
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