Hey everyone I'm SGT Morales! (^_^)

[chrismorales]

Hey everyone! My name's Chris and I'm currently serving in the ARMY. I'm a medic, finishing up my last month in Iraq...only to be released from my enlistment within a few months. I've had a lot of fun here, but I'm glad that it's almost over. Like so many others in the military, I am tired of not being able to be myself all the time, and you may take that as you wish, because due to my current job situation, I am not of liberty to release any information about myself...but I'm sure you know what I'm talking about. (^_^)

I wish that things were different in the military and that openly gay men and women were able to serve...and I hope that things change. Until then...I'll just keep my fingers crossed. Hope everybody has a great day!

[Dash]

Howdy Sgt. Morales!

[cowboy clumsily attempts to salute...knocks hat off...falls off horse trying to catch it...]

Ummm...scuse me...anyway...

Thanks for stoppin' by pardner! See ya 'round! Always appreciate a good doc.

[Steven E. Webster]

Chris,

Welcome! You've no doubt noticed that Soulforce currently has an active program to challenge the military's anti-LGBT policies with Soulforce volunteers seeking to join the military while being open about their sexual orientation. At the same time many of us have pacifist and anti-war connections or convictions. This leads to fascinating tensions which may never be resolved--but, hey, that's life, ain't it?

I've protested many a war myself going back to Viet Nam, but I've come to believe we must respect those who conscientiously and professionally serve in the U.S. military. Frankly, I've got to respect the conscientious stand that Colin Powell, John McCain and Lindsey Graham are taking against the Bush Administration's stand on the Geneva Convention. I only wish that men like these could have kept us out of Iraq in the first place.

Sorry, to delve so deeply into politics--that's me, I'm afraid. (And though I've just mentioned favorably a bunch of Republicans, if you push me very far you'll find out I'm a liberal Democrat to the core.) This discussion board offers a lot more options than politics (you may be thankful!), so I hope you find something here to your liking.

Steven Webster

[Vanessa White]

So glad that you have found your way here. As with my friends here at Soulforce, no matter what views I possess about our involvement in Iraq, I never waiver from my firm support of all of you that are there doing your best to help the situation. I pray for your safe return home, and look forward to you posting here. Peace and love to you, Vanessa

[zimnah]

Welcome!
As the others have said, I too do not support our presence in Iraq, but as one who grew up in the Marines, joined the Army and married the Navy (twice, mind you!) you have all of my support. You have an incredibly tough job to do as a medic, needless to say.
You have my prayers as well. Keep low, and come home safe.
G-d Bless!
--Dawn

[RyanJames]

Hello,

My name is Ryan. I am currently stationed at Fort Drum, NY. I am serving semi-openly. Would love for the military to open it's doors to all citizens.

RJG

[Lydia]

Welcome, Chris.