Hmm, but how do you truly demonstrate that it’s more effective for America without doing it? Other countries’ militaries, for the most part, have not had a huge problem with open homosexuals, so perhaps one could argue based on that, but then the reply will be that America is not like those other countries, so it’s irrelevant.
I admit that I have a personal interest in this, but still, I’d like to think that even if I didn’t I would look at the evidence and still feel the same way. There will always be those gays who fantasize about military guys due to the macho aspect of it, but they’re not the ones who will be signing up to die for this great country. And anyone who thinks all gays are sissies is truly mistaken.
The biggest issue is the threat to morale and unit cohesion. That is to say, the majority of people in the military aren't comfortable with the idea of sharing sleeping quarters, showers etc. with open homosexuals. So long as that remains the case, then I don't support any changes to the current policy. However, if some time in the future, people in the military stop caring about this issue, then it would be appropriate to abandon the policy.
Other countries’ militaries, for the most part, have not had a huge problem with open homosexuals, so perhaps one could argue based on that, but then the reply will be that America is not like those other countries, so it’s irrelevant.
It would be something to look into to see what kind of effect allowing open homosexuals has had on the militaries of other Western democracies. I know the Brits and Canadians allow it, and their militaries are quite effective. The Israelis allow it, too (though, in their case, it comes down to need- Israel needs every soldier it can get, considering its small population).
There will always be those gays who fantasize about military guys due to the macho aspect of it, but they’re not the ones who will be signing up to die for this great country.
The current policy works for everyone other than (a) homosexual advocates who are more interested in making a political point than in national defense; and (b) religious zealots who want to engage in witch hunts to kick out gays who are discretely serving in the military.
There are plenty of homosexuals serving in the military today. Any homosexual who wants to serve his or her country can do so, they just have to exercise a little discretion (which isn't that hard, frankly- they basically just can't "come out" at work. Their personal life is hardy effected)