New Global War on Terrorism Recruiting Challenges

From Iraq:

"We're in a recruiting war with the insurgency," said Brig. Gen. Robert Neller, the deputy Marine commander in western Iraq.

From today's Washington Post editorial: Don't Ask, Don't Tell Follies

Military recruiters are cutting corners to meet goals. So why do the services keep kicking out gay men and lesbians?

WITH THE U.S. military fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan, it is hardly a surprise that recruitment for the all-volunteer forces would be a challenge. . . . But the increase [in recruiting violations] highlights the irrationality of another set of figures released in recent days: the growing number of gay men and lesbians being booted from the military despite being well trained and fully qualified to serve.

"Don't ask, don't tell" has failed completely. It insults those who would serve their country even as it deprives the military of their service. And while the policy has led to the dismissal of more than 11,000 people since its inception, it manifestly does not create an all-straight military. Gay men and lesbians continue to serve in all of the forces with honor and valor. It is long past time for Congress and the Bush administration to change the law and let them do so without denying who they are.

OK, heterosexual College and Young Republicans (if any), if you really want to support "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," it's also long past time to Be A (heterosexual) Man! Enlist!