There is no doubt that being a member of the Armed Forces entails many sacrifices, including foregoing certain aspects of civilian life to adhere to the rules and regulations imposed upon them. This often includes putting their own lives at risk while protecting others, which can be challenging enough without adding additional complications into the mix.
There are some service members who identify themselves as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBT) and may have difficulty reconciling these identities with their professional military identity. The following section will explore how LGBT service members navigate this dilemma and maintain their personal relational needs while meeting their professional obligations.
One way that LGBT service members attempt to reconcile their identities is through finding supportive communities within the military. Many military bases offer resources such as chaplains, counselors, and even peer groups specifically designed for LGBT individuals. These provide a safe space for open discussions about sexuality and relationships, which can help service members feel understood and accepted.
Many military branches now allow same-sex partners to accompany their partner on deployment and live on base if they so choose, creating a more stable environment for both parties involved.
LGBT service members can also find support outside of their immediate unit by joining organizations like OutServe-SLDN, an organization dedicated to supporting active-duty personnel who identify as LGBT. This group provides resources such as legal aid, financial assistance, mentorship programs, and social events, all aimed at helping its members meet their unique needs. By connecting with other LGBT service members in similar situations, it becomes easier to understand how others navigate the tension between personal identity and professional obligation.
Another strategy employed by LGBT service members is compartmentalization. This means separating their personal lives from their professional lives by keeping them separate and distinct.
One might not share details about their personal relationships or sexual orientation while in uniform but may do so when off duty. While this approach may seem counterintuitive to some, it allows them to focus entirely on their mission without worrying about potential repercussions related to their identity.
There are those who find ways to balance their personal relational needs with professional obligations through creativity and innovation. Some may use technology to connect with partners remotely while deployed overseas, utilizing platforms like FaceTime or Skype to maintain intimacy even while apart. Others may seek out alternative forms of expression that don't directly conflict with military regulations; for instance, participating in sports teams or volunteering for community projects. Regardless of the method chosen, finding a way to reconcile these two aspects of life can be challenging but ultimately rewarding for many LGBT service members.
Being an LGBT service member requires navigating complex emotional and practical obstacles.
With the help of support systems and strategies such as those mentioned above, many individuals are able to successfully balance their personal identities with their professional responsibilities. As more organizations offer resources aimed at supporting this population, it is expected that we will see fewer instances where these conflicts arise, leading to a more inclusive and equitable military environment.
How do LGBT service members reconcile personal relational needs with professional military identity and obligations?
While researching about LGBT service members and their relationships with their families, colleagues, friends, and themselves, I found that they often face difficult challenges when trying to integrate their personal identity into their work environment and daily lives. The US Armed Forces have been known for its strict policies regarding sexuality and gender identities which can create a conflict between an individual's need for acceptance and recognition of who they are, and their duty towards their country.