25-year old Arkansas native, Huey Donovan, is facing discharge for breaching the military’s “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. Donovan told Navy shipmates he’d be attending San Diego’s pride festival this weekend.
The “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy enacted during the Clinton administration allows people of homosexual orientation to serve in the military, as long as they do not disclose their sexuality.
“He was very nonchalant about it,” said James Harty, Donovan’s shipmate. “He said he was just going to the pride festival in San Diego after visiting some family.” Higher-ranking military officials overheard Harty and Donovan’s exchange. When confronted, Donovan admitted to his plans but will also take the issue to court.
There is speculation as to the validity of Donovan’s release. Although he shared his plans to attend the pride festival, critics argue that his discharge is not justified. He did not disclose his sexuality and his attendance does not indicate his orientation. Many heterosexuals join the festivities each year to support the cause.
The court ruling will decide if Donovan’s statement violates military policy and whether or not he will be discharged.
Donovan still plans to attend the festival.
By Juanita Pha, Jennifer Sun, Phylicia Hisel
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