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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Military Gay Policy Headed To Court

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Days after President Clinton’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy went into effect, Lt. Paul Thomasson sent a letter to the admiral enforcing the Navy’s policy against homosexuals.

“I am gay,” he wrote.

Despite Thomasson’s stellar 10-year record and the support of his commanding officer, the Navy moved to discharge him.

Thomasson fought back in court, challenging the policy as unconstitutional. His case goes before the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Alexandria, Va., this week - the first challenge of the Clinton policy to reach the federal appeals court level.