Transgender military ban unwise

The United States military is the greatest fighting force in the world. Our military strength has grown as that force has become more diverse. That’s why President Trump is wrong to call for a ban on transgender soldiers. The fact is, no matter a person’s gender identity, our soldiers are American heroes. They volunteer to put their lives on the line to protect the country they love, just like any other soldier. Their service should not be condemned, it should be celebrated. The decision about who can serve should be made entirely based on a person’s ability to do the job, not their sexual identity. IF they can meet the challenges being a soldier requires, they should be issued a uniform. Our troops are professionals, focused on defeating the enemy. They are not distracted by someone who is different from them. Trump’s proposed ban is disrespectful tnot only to the proud transgender troops serving today, and frankly, to the American ideal of equality. President Trump cites the proposed ban is due to “tremendous medical costs” yet the truth is the American military spends far less on transgender related healthcare than it does on erectile dysfunction drugs. We spend $84 million on erectile dysfunction treatment, and a mere $2.4 million to provide healthcare to transgender soldiers. Since 2011, the U.S. Mililtary has spent $294 million on drugs like Viagra and Cialis. That is enough to buy four F-35 airplanes. This isn’t about saving money. It is quite simply the result of prejudice.