Posted on Dec 6, 2015
Ben Carson calls transgender military members a distraction. How do you feel about this?
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Personally, I don't care if a military member is transgender or not. It's none of mine or anyone else's business, unless. Why would it matter, as long as the job is getting done? I don't want to debate this. Remember I do not want to debate transgenders. I want to know how you feel about what Carson said. IMO, he's definitely not POTUS material now. Everyone has a constitutional right and a moral right to choose as they please, as long as it isn't against our Constitution or against the law.
And now for the rest of the story:
I decided I don't like the pic I had of Carson. I also,changed my first statement as it was causing controversy.
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“I mean, why do you have to go around flaunting your sexuality?" the presidential hopeful added.
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa -- Ben Carson told veterans at an event in Waterloo, Iowa, on Saturday that the military is not the place to deal with the “transgender thing.”
“I do not appreciate using our military as a laboratory for a social experiment,” Carson said at a town hall hosted by Concerned Veterans for America. “You know?
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/ben-carson-transgender-military_566442cce4b08e945fefd34f?ir=Politics%253Fncid%253Dnewsltushpmg00000003
And now for the rest of the story:
I decided I don't like the pic I had of Carson. I also,changed my first statement as it was causing controversy.
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“I mean, why do you have to go around flaunting your sexuality?" the presidential hopeful added.
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa -- Ben Carson told veterans at an event in Waterloo, Iowa, on Saturday that the military is not the place to deal with the “transgender thing.”
“I do not appreciate using our military as a laboratory for a social experiment,” Carson said at a town hall hosted by Concerned Veterans for America. “You know?
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/ben-carson-transgender-military_566442cce4b08e945fefd34f?ir=Politics%253Fncid%253Dnewsltushpmg00000003
Edited 10 y ago
Posted 10 y ago
Responses: 53
If you were to listen to the actual speech and not screenshots and memes, you get a completely different picture.
The basic message he implied is that our military is not the place for social experiments, and that ones sexual preference doesn't need to be publicized. In fact, he referenced bringing back don't ask don't tell (not the ban on homosexuality) which we all know was a Clinton policy, and go ahead and call me a bigot, I agree.
I don't care what you do in your personal life, or on your own time. Go ahead and bring your domestic partner to family events. But your sexual preferences (or mine) have no place in workplace discussion. PDA is against policy, and sorry but either go to unisex showers, billeting and bathrooms or if you've got junk in your pants, you use the men's bathroom.
The basic message he implied is that our military is not the place for social experiments, and that ones sexual preference doesn't need to be publicized. In fact, he referenced bringing back don't ask don't tell (not the ban on homosexuality) which we all know was a Clinton policy, and go ahead and call me a bigot, I agree.
I don't care what you do in your personal life, or on your own time. Go ahead and bring your domestic partner to family events. But your sexual preferences (or mine) have no place in workplace discussion. PDA is against policy, and sorry but either go to unisex showers, billeting and bathrooms or if you've got junk in your pants, you use the men's bathroom.
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SPC(P) (Join to see)
The problem with that, is like I stated, not the ban on homosexuality. Yes, in its Clinton admin form, it went along with a ban on homosexuality making it impossible to bring a domestic partner to family events, get married, or the like. What Dr. Carson is condoning is nothing similar. What he is saying is that personal lives should stay personal and off duty.
Public displays of affection is not attending an event with your spouse, it is making out in the hallways, and the like... so I would like to set that straight first, and yes, if someone were to get overly affectionate with a wife at a military event, I would expect repercussions as well.
No one cares about a transgender "simply stating that he is transgender". And "publicizing" it is when they start demanding being able to wear the skirt in class A's or demand to sleep in the women's tent, or demand to use the women's bathroom. The concept of don't ask, don't tell is that neither party should be making sexual preferences the topic of discussion in the workplace. In other words, if Chelsea can't stop advertising the fact that s/he likes to dress like a woman, or Pornstache can't stop talking about anal sex they are both a distraction in the workplace, much the same, Joe can't go hound Pornstache with questions about his sexual fetishes.
It's about time the left realizes that you have to draw the line somewhere, and that like it or not, there comes a point where it crosses the line allowing one person to "express themselves" at the expense of everyone around them. It creates a hostile work environment for both parties, makes people uncomfortable doing their job, and creates a dangerously distracted unit... all things that don't belong in a military unit.
Public displays of affection is not attending an event with your spouse, it is making out in the hallways, and the like... so I would like to set that straight first, and yes, if someone were to get overly affectionate with a wife at a military event, I would expect repercussions as well.
No one cares about a transgender "simply stating that he is transgender". And "publicizing" it is when they start demanding being able to wear the skirt in class A's or demand to sleep in the women's tent, or demand to use the women's bathroom. The concept of don't ask, don't tell is that neither party should be making sexual preferences the topic of discussion in the workplace. In other words, if Chelsea can't stop advertising the fact that s/he likes to dress like a woman, or Pornstache can't stop talking about anal sex they are both a distraction in the workplace, much the same, Joe can't go hound Pornstache with questions about his sexual fetishes.
It's about time the left realizes that you have to draw the line somewhere, and that like it or not, there comes a point where it crosses the line allowing one person to "express themselves" at the expense of everyone around them. It creates a hostile work environment for both parties, makes people uncomfortable doing their job, and creates a dangerously distracted unit... all things that don't belong in a military unit.
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Sgt Kevin Curl
This is what the folks that doctored what Dr. Carson said want to gain dislike towards his policies and party affiliation . We know how Clinton feels on this issue but has since changed her tune to garner votes from LGBTV . I don't care what you do after work as long as it's legal just don't want to see it in a working environment . Need to return to DADT. Only reason this changed is because our President isn't what he appears , meaning he's a Closet Homosexual with a surrogate family . Sure he said what he had to to get elected but he's clearly gay as everyone in Chicago area already knows just not those on left but hey it will all come out come 2017 when he is no longer relevant . Same reason he hired a gay Sec. of the Army . Our military is no place for social experimentation !
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LTC Stephen Conway
CPT L S - Jesus was happy with who he was and did not spend a fortune to change and he never then decided it was a botch job and then wished to die.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2440086/Belgian-transsexual-Nathan-Verhelst-44-elects-die-euthanasia-botched-sex-change-operation.html
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2440086/Belgian-transsexual-Nathan-Verhelst-44-elects-die-euthanasia-botched-sex-change-operation.html
Belgian elects to die by euthanasia after botched sex change
Nathan Verhelst, 44, died yesterday afternoon in Belgium after being allowed have his life ended on the grounds of 'unbearable psychological suffering'.
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Also, I find it funny how if you disagree with someone or something you get some moron saying your a bigot.
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Cpl Jeff N.
SGT (Join to see) . I did go there with you so not sure what to make of that comment. What can anyone do about it Keith? You say you are a Christian but do not know what to do regarding sin. You are commanded to preach the gospel to sinners and tell them to repent not embrace the sin. All have sinned and fallen short without a doubt but the key is that they turn away (repent) from the sin not live in it, wallow in it and ask others to accept it as not being sinful. Nowhere are you commanded to accept and tolerate sin. There is no "love the sinner, hate the sin" verse in the Bible many like to say exists. I am not suggesting anyone harm anyone only that you are the salt you profess to be.
As far as women (even though that was not the topic of this post), Christ commanded men to love their wives as Christ loved the church. That should be a pretty good mark to measure yourself against considering Christ died for his Church. There is much said about women in the Bible you seem to have missed. Yes, men, in a Christian home are supposed to lead the family. Women are not slaves in Christian relationships and for you to say that indicates you do not know or have not spend any time studying the topic.
And for CPT (Servicemember) the guy who will not use his real name or picture and then blocks people he wants to make nasty comments about (a real intellectual coward), save it captain. You use apart of the scripture to try to support your position but leave out the last part of it where Christ commands the woman to do what captain? He commands her to go and sin no more. You are not even a believer (by your own posts) and then try to use scripture as a battering ram. You look like an ignorant rube.
As far as women (even though that was not the topic of this post), Christ commanded men to love their wives as Christ loved the church. That should be a pretty good mark to measure yourself against considering Christ died for his Church. There is much said about women in the Bible you seem to have missed. Yes, men, in a Christian home are supposed to lead the family. Women are not slaves in Christian relationships and for you to say that indicates you do not know or have not spend any time studying the topic.
And for CPT (Servicemember) the guy who will not use his real name or picture and then blocks people he wants to make nasty comments about (a real intellectual coward), save it captain. You use apart of the scripture to try to support your position but leave out the last part of it where Christ commands the woman to do what captain? He commands her to go and sin no more. You are not even a believer (by your own posts) and then try to use scripture as a battering ram. You look like an ignorant rube.
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SGT (Join to see)
Jeff, I don't like being called an asshole. I'm sure you don't either. I do not need a lecture on believing in Christ. I am one of the nicest people you will ever meet. I do believe in Christ. I don't talk to anyone in RP about religion. I've tried twice, and the non believers and atheist cause a flame war. I can't begin to tell you how much God Has worked in our lives. We've had several really bad things happen and He has been right there with us. Had it not been for our church friends and our trust in God, I don't know what we would have done. Anyway, I won't bore you anymore with my situations. Let's call a truce and act like men and not kids. Thank you for your comment.
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Maj Rob Drury
SGT (Join to see) - "a person who is obstinately or intolerantly devoted to his or her own opinions and prejudices..."
So, if my views are not obstinate, intolerant (whatever that means), or mere opinion, I'm not a bigot.
I'm so relieved!
.
So, if my views are not obstinate, intolerant (whatever that means), or mere opinion, I'm not a bigot.
I'm so relieved!
.
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Maj Rob Drury
SFC Joseph Weber - I don't care what "religious types" (whatever that means) consider an abomination; but I care a great deal about what God calls one. The difference is religious belief and reality. They are an abomination. You may not like it or agree, but it remains true nonetheless.
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I really can't wait until I can retire, it seems that nowadays in the Armed Services is about women serving in combat (which has not been an issue to me ), sexual preferences and things like that. When can we get back to shooting, physical training, MOS training, etc?
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SGT (Join to see)
I can't blame you SFC (Join to see), politically correctness has taken over. It's hard to be PC when you're on a battlefield. The enemy won't understand it.
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Transgender soldiers have been serving in silence for as long as we have had a military. Statistically we are twice as likely as a cisgender person to serve. Initial reporting shows that over 25% of transgender Americans have served at some point. The difference is that we have finally come to a point where we can look to serve openly and with dignity. It's not about who we want to be or what our agenda is. I don't want my gender to be a big deal any more than anyone else, but I do want to serve as myself. This isn't about left or right. Take away political sides and agendas. This isn't about religious views as we are a country with many and none rule out governmental views (or should). This is about a society who has come to a point of acceptance for who I am. The military is not a social experiment.
The military is the logical place to right societal wrongs. We have the construct of order and discipline, as well as a set of core values, which make us the right place to lead our country in doing what is just for those in the margin. From racial equality, to women's rights, and now to LGBT equality this is not about special privilege. It's about equality and the equal right to serve this country regardless of who you are, but based on your ability to serve. Yes the military is often first. We are leaders. I'm proud to be a soldier. I'm proud of my service. And now I am proud to serve openly as a Trans woman. It hasn't affected my job or my ability to lead. With time we will look back on this and wonder what the big deal was about.
The military is the logical place to right societal wrongs. We have the construct of order and discipline, as well as a set of core values, which make us the right place to lead our country in doing what is just for those in the margin. From racial equality, to women's rights, and now to LGBT equality this is not about special privilege. It's about equality and the equal right to serve this country regardless of who you are, but based on your ability to serve. Yes the military is often first. We are leaders. I'm proud to be a soldier. I'm proud of my service. And now I am proud to serve openly as a Trans woman. It hasn't affected my job or my ability to lead. With time we will look back on this and wonder what the big deal was about.
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MSgt Curtis Ellis
SSG Patricia King You've got a long road ahead of you. Hang in there, be well, and stay blessed. :)
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PVT Robert Gresham
A great response, SSG Patricia King !! It is nice to finally hear from "the source". We need more Trans Service members who are not afraid to speak out. Best of luck to you !!
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MAJ (Join to see)
CPT L S
I already decided I can't even respond to SPC(P) (Join to see) anymore. Wasted effort.
I already decided I can't even respond to SPC(P) (Join to see) anymore. Wasted effort.
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SPC(P) (Join to see)
CPT (Servicemember)
Perhaps you missed that the comment you were commenting on, was in regards to Dr. Carson's intelligence, not your own. That is why I pointed out your 'look at me' comment. Dr. Carson's doctorates actually pertain to the conversation... your ASVAB score does not. Though I don't doubt you have many achievements, I frankly don't care. If you would like to have a logical conversation, I would be glad to take it offline as I don't feel it necessary to drag CPT Ahmed Faried into it, and your liberal friends would be welcome to join. However, if you are going to continue to resort to pushing memes and generalized baseless and denigrating comments, have a good day.
Perhaps you missed that the comment you were commenting on, was in regards to Dr. Carson's intelligence, not your own. That is why I pointed out your 'look at me' comment. Dr. Carson's doctorates actually pertain to the conversation... your ASVAB score does not. Though I don't doubt you have many achievements, I frankly don't care. If you would like to have a logical conversation, I would be glad to take it offline as I don't feel it necessary to drag CPT Ahmed Faried into it, and your liberal friends would be welcome to join. However, if you are going to continue to resort to pushing memes and generalized baseless and denigrating comments, have a good day.
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SSG Eddye Royal
I have not got an answer, after Bruce Jenner got the Arthur ASH award, then Army Soldier(s) started killing themselves, because they did not look and act like him. The soldiers got beat up in the military and when people started reaching out to him he did not want to talk and help. these people.
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SSG Eddye Royal
I have not got an answer, after Bruce Jenner got the Arthur ASH award, then Army Soldier(s) started killing themselves, because they did not look and act like him. The soldiers got beat up in the military and when people started reaching out to him he did not want to talk and help. these people.
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I believe that Ben Carson is more POTUS qualified than the majority of other candidates. I like Trump, but dont agree with his philosophy of killing ISIS family members.
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SGT (Join to see)
I don't know about him yet. At first I was all in for him, but since the debates and his speeches, he says some things he doesn't understand what he's saying. Like this post.
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MAJ (Join to see)
Considering that Trump and Carson are competing from who can have the most factually incorrect assertions, and illegal policies, I'd say it's a toss-up.
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SGT (Join to see)
To the question, of course it is a distraction and a mistake, but that does not mean we will not continue to be distracted by it. Just follow the discussion on the question on this site?
To the posting implying that the Right supports 'Blind Hate' is beneath you. It is the modus operandi of the Left to call anyone who does not support the destructive agenda as hate filled bigots. Don't fall into their trap.
To the question, of course it is a distraction and a mistake, but that does not mean we will not continue to be distracted by it. Just follow the discussion on the question on this site?
To the posting implying that the Right supports 'Blind Hate' is beneath you. It is the modus operandi of the Left to call anyone who does not support the destructive agenda as hate filled bigots. Don't fall into their trap.
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SGT (Join to see)
Will do and am, MSG Brad Sand. I don't consider myself a bigot. Just because I disagree with something and someone doesn't make me a bigot. I don't agree with Carson talking about something he really knows nothing about. I don't think anyone in the military these days wont flaunt their sexual preference. I don't believe they would want to be a target, by flaunting.
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But a social experiment is exactly what the military is! This man is a fool every time he opens his mouth...
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SGT (Join to see)
MSgt Michelle Mondia, I still can't believe some of the things this guy says. To say slavery was the best thing to happen is moronic. What a great POTUS he wouldn't make.
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SSG (Join to see)
If we were electing Brain Surgeon in Chief he would definitely be the best choice. He is a celebrated expert in that field... unfortunately that make him in expert in any other field. If his field of expertise was Constitutional Law, Political Science, Sociology or one of those fields it might help make him a better President... I don't believe neurosurgery will be particularly useful.
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Anything and everyone can be a distraction. The Private marrying the stripper. The Sergeant getting beat up by his wife. The Captain who's husband cheats on her. Everything and anything can be a distraction. WHO CARES? If you are laying on the battlefield with your guts hanging out, do you really care who patches you up? Or when you are pinned down by enemy fire, do you care who is on the QRF? Why can't we just treat PEOPLE with DIGNITY and RESPECT regardless of who they are and what their preference is? You don't have to agree with or condone their lifestyle. You simply have to work with them. No more no less. Besides this is nothing new there have been women that disguised themselves as men who fought in the Revolution and the Civil War. Is this any different?
Here are a couple of links with a couple examples:
http://www.civilwar.org/education/history/untold-stories/female-soldiers-in-the-civil.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deborah_Sampson
Here are a couple of links with a couple examples:
http://www.civilwar.org/education/history/untold-stories/female-soldiers-in-the-civil.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deborah_Sampson
Female Soldiers in the Civil War
The Civil War Trust's Untold Story of female soldiers in the Civil War.
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SSG Warren Swan
SGT you're messing up. Be checking your mail soon for orders telling you to report back in for duty. You know no one likes folks who make their own ideas and they make sense. You thought you were free from the Borg....resistance is futile.
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SGT David T.
SSG Warren Swan - I guess it's a good thing I no longer have a MSO lol. But in Worf's words "ASSIMILATE THIS!" lol
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