The Department of Defense announced on Aug. 14 that benefits, such as housing and health care, that are provided to military Families would be extended to same-sex couples beginning Sept. 3.
If you're a military service member or a DoD civilian, it doesn't matter if you are for or against same-sex marriage; you have to be supportive of the U.S. Constitution. Under the provisions of the Constitution, the Supreme Court struck down Section Three of the Defense of Marriage Act back on June 26, thus paving the way for the Department of Defense to extend benefits to same-sex couples.
But it's not going to be a mad dash by your local gay pride parade to register partners in DEERS. The Secretary of Defense has directed that those benefits would only be extended to those couples who are legally married, same sex or not.
To me, this is the only fair way to address this issue. As grandpa said, "If you love it, put a ring on it." The simple act of marriage, regardless of the sexes, is a binding agreement that most people put a little thought into. (Please note that I said "most," as there are plenty of weekend-wonder brides.)
Now for the kicker. Missouri does not recognize same-sex marriages. Currently only 13 states have legal same-sex marriages with Iowa being the closest, but fear not, DoD has a plan to address this as well.
If you are a same-sex couple and you decide to tie the knot, the Secretary of Defense has directed that as a service member, you would be given time to travel to a jurisdiction where this ceremony could be performed, and you would get this time as non-chargeable leave. As for waiting periods in those states and all the other requirements, the directive is a bit fuzzy, but the guidelines will be in place before Sept. 3.
According to DoD officials, entitlements such as TRICARE enrollment, basic allowance for housing and Family separation allowance are retroactive to the date of the Supreme Court's decision. Any claims to entitlements before that date will not be granted. For those members married after June 26, 2013, entitlements begin at the date of marriage.
Personally, I think it is good news. If you are willing to serve your country, and the repeal of "Don't ask, Don't tell" allows gays to serve openly in the military, then by all means their legal spouses should get the same benefits and treatment as any other couple. This action shows that DoD is committed to ensuring that all men and women who serve in the U.S. military, and their Families, are treated fairly and equally as the law directs.
You may not personally like this decision, but in the end, it's all part of that sacred document that you have swore to uphold and defend … the U.S. Constitution.
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