The Sailor Sleepover Controversy
What on Earth is the problem? Could this be a more unreasonable case or situation? The good news is that the United States Navy is trying to gain a more macho image. However, they are going about this the wrong way.
Navy Petty Officer Stephen C. Jones is challenging his discharge for what was obviously a purely platonic sleepover. Jones stated that he was watching "The Vampire Diaries" with a fellow sailor and his roommate walked in on both of them asleep. When the roommate alerted his superior, both of the young men were in deep trouble and discharged. They were not under the covers together. One of them was wearing boxers, the other was wearing pajama pants and a white t-shirt.
For those you who don't know, the Naval Nuclear Power Training Command is a very difficult program in the Navy. It is located in Goose Creek, S.C., outside of Charleston, and requires Top Secret Security Clearance. They are all training to work on nuclear reactors on either submarines or aircraft carriers. From my experience, most of them are very nerdy and aren't the types to get out much. Plus, in their defense, Goose Creek isn't that exciting. I've been there a few times when my ex boyfriend and I were together and there is a base, some fast food places, a scary-looking strip club, and a high school. So, what exactly does the U.S. Navy expect them to do?
Now, Jones never commented on his sexual orientation. However, if he is smart enough to go through the nuclear training program, he would know better than to get involved with another sailor.
I have met soldiers, including sailors stationed in the exact same place, who have done things that the Navy would probably deem as "unprofessional".In all honesty, this is typical male behavior. I know guys who I went to boarding school with who would sometimes sleep in the same bed on accident because they got tired.
Here's my take on it. Honestly, The Vampire Diaries do make you gay. Actually, that was pure sarcasm: not like it matters, right? Now, I embrace the gay community as much as Lady GaGa or Ru Paul. However, the U.S. Navy needs to realize what I, a nineteen-year-old college kid realizes: this poor guy IS NOT gay, he's tired and likes to watch movies, most likely on his laptop, in his bed which just so happens to be very comfortable. To make the night less boring, he probably has an equally tired sailor in his room. The curriculum at the Naval Nuclear Power Training Command is very difficult- I have friends and an ex boyfriend who went through it.
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