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‘Serving in Silence’

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As a gay man, I take exception to Howard Rosenberg’s review of “Serving in Silence: The Margarethe Cammermeyer Story” (“ ‘Serving in Silence’ Left Too Much Starch In,” Feb. 6).

What he found “tedious,” I found stimulating and refreshing. His strongest remarks seemed to echo comments I’ve seen bounced around by other critics--mainly, the lack of sensationalism involving the depiction of gay physical relations.

From both the film and the book upon which it was based, I feel the real persona of this modern heroine is evoked: a middle-aged woman, intelligent, compassionate, a dedicated officer and devoted mother, who comes to grips with her true feelings: She is attracted to her own gender.

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Yes, Mr. Rosenberg, there is no real drama--at least, not the type you probably were begging for. No suicides, no drug overdoses, no gross sexual misconduct--in short, no “Melrose Place.” For me, the drama was seeing a remarkable human being remain true to her values. I marveled at Glenn Close’s performance. I didn’t see a “Girl Scout,” I saw a role model.

Cammermeyer didn’t have to be depicted as one of the vulgar stereotypes so often thrust at us by the entertainment media. So what if she wasn’t touchy-feely with her life partner? Did we the viewers really need it? Don’t confuse true love with lust.

One can only hope that there was a viewer or two whose perceptions of the lesbian lifestyle might be enlightened by having watched “Serving in Silence.” I will continue to support any film or filmmaker that can produce visionary works that portray this nation’s gays as exemplary citizens to emulate. Despite what some bigots will have you believe, we’re out there.

DAVE HUTCHINSON

Mission Viejo

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