By Evaristo Lara
Jun 26, 2024, 3:43 PM EDT
Members of the US military who were convicted over a period of 60 years based on a military law that prohibited gay sex will be eligible for a pardon granted by President Joe Biden.
The Democrat who intends to be re-elected as head of the White House recognized it as an obligation to correct “a historical error” granting a pardon to elements of the Armed Forces “condemned simply for being themselves.”
“Our nation’s military are on the front lines of freedom and risk their lives to defend our country.
Despite their bravery and great sacrifice, thousands of LGBTQI+ service members were forced to leave the military due to their sexual orientation or gender identity.
It’s about dignity, decency and ensuring that the culture of our Armed Forces reflects the values that make us an exceptional nation“said the president.
According to estimates, the presidential pardon could benefit about 2,000 veterans who were convicted under Article 125 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice, which criminalized sodomy.
This article even sanctioned adults who consented to a gay sexual relationship while on duty.
The strict Code remained in force between 1951 and 2013, until it was rewritten by Congress.
It should be noted that the discharge status of a service member can determine the benefits to which they may be eligible, such as a military pension or even access to a mortgage loan, to name a few points.
It transpired that Former military personnel affected at the time by the Uniform Code of Military Justice will be able to access the pardon by completing an online application, which will be sent to the corresponding military service department.
Afterwards, a group of experts in military legislation will review the applicant’s service history and determine whether or not they are eligible to access the benefit.
The only people unable to obtain a pardon are those who have been convicted of a non-consensual act such as rape.
Since September of last year, the Pentagon implemented an outreach campaign to try to reach more former members convicted for their sexual preference.
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