Armed Forces: Sex, Lies and the Military

For gays and lesbians, life in the armed forces means unflagging vigilance and some tactical deception

It's done sotto voce, but somehow word gets passed. The Air Force is the most hospitable armed branch; the Marines and Army are the pits. Entertainment and medical jobs are the safest; artillery and infantry units the roughest. If possible, head for bases around San Francisco or Washington; steer clear of South Korea and Hawaii. Join groups like Alcoholics Anonymous; for those in the Navy, especially, they are safe enclaves. Buy Bob Damron's Address Book; it lists gay bars near military installations both at home and abroad. But be careful: such clubs are off limits and are often scouted by bands...

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