Mr. Robert Martin - Washington - Gay
USAF - Sep 4 1991-Aug 4 2004 - E6
Military nick: Rob
self-identified in service: Yes
Out since: Sep 2002 - Coming Out: 7
honors & citations: Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, Humanitarian Service
Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Air Force Good Conduct Medal
Bio: I joined the United States Air Force in September 1991, just after High School. I had a great
career going in the military rising to the rank of E-6 in 10 years. My first 8 years were spent as an EMT
and medical technician. The last 4 years I was a videographer. I always got the highest rating on all my performance
reports. Just after September 11, 2001 I met a great new best friend. We did everything together, went to
the gym, to the movies, out to eat... His wife was deployed at the time. After knowing him about a year he
finally brought it out of me that I was gay. He said he was supportive and that he would still be my friend
no matter what. In October 2002, I told my parents who were shocked, but in time have become very supportive
of me. Also in October 2002, I met the love of my life that I am still with today. As soon as I met him my
relationship with my best friend deteriorated quickly, he couldn't handle that fact that his best friend was
gay. My boyfriend and I had some tough times too when I was deployed to the Middle East for 5 months and then
received orders to Germany. The deployment was the worst 5 months of my life. Mostly because I couldn't talk
to anyone about my situation. When I returned in April 2004, I contacted Servicemembers Legal Defense Network
for advice on how to get out and not have to go to Germany. That was the best call I ever made!
I was still in the process of making my tough decision of giving up my 12 year career when the decision was
made for me. In June 2004 my former best friend turned me in for being gay. The next 3 months were very stressful,
but I am so much better for it. My immediate supervisor was so supportive when I told him what had happened.
He said he knew I was gay since the day he mat me. He also thought that my best friend and I were dating.
In August 2004 I got out of the Air Force, exactly one month before my 13 year mark. Thanks to SLDN I got
an honorable discharge and received separation pay. I just celebrated my 3 year anniversary with my partner.
Currently I work as a civilian for the Army as an audio visual presentation specialist. Life is great!
.
