Gay Couples

The article, “Gay Military Couples a Gulf Apart” (Feb. 3) was very powerful to me, since I learned recently of the death at 69 of my aunt’s former lover--female. They were together for 20 years and remained close, platonic friends until my aunt’s death two years ago.

She too made up stories of male boyfriends through the years and was able to “hide” the truth, since the family lived in Utah and Colorado and she in San Francisco. When she finally “came out,” she was surprised that the family knew all along--it did not matter to us.

This also happened when a childhood friend (male) came out to me at age 35. He has been with the same mate for 20 years, and there is no difference between their relationship and mine with my husband.

How dare the military and religious zealots deny the homosexuals their rightful, open place in society?

The idea that gay people are a security threat is a cop-out, especially now that people are more free to accept themselves for what they are.

What does it matter who we love, as long as we love?

PEGGY CHAMBERLAIN, San Diego