Update: Margerethe Cammermeyer Speaks Out
December
22, 2010
 It was the ultimate gesture of vindication. Col. Margerethe
Cammermeyer was invited by president Obama to come to Washington and
attend today's signing ceremony for the repeal of "Don't Ask Don't
Tell." Cammermeyer, who was discharged from the army under pre-DADT
rules but later reinstated, accepted the invitation.
She had the
distinction of reciting the Pledge of Allegiance as the president
formally abolished the law (right). Way to go, Grethe.
December
18, 2010
In 1995, Barbra Streisand produced a TV movie called "Serving for
 Silence."
Glenn Close portrayed Colonel Margerethe Cammermeyer, the true story
of a woman who was
discharged from the army
national guard for revealing her sexual orientation.
In 1994, Cammermeyer waged
a court challenge against the government's policy on gays in the
military. As a result of Cammermeyer's litigation, the policy was
declared unconstitutional and her discharge was overturned.
Cammermeyer's
efforts
helped
pave
the
way
for
today's
landmark
repeal
of
"Don't
Ask
Don't
Tell."
From
her
home
in
Washington
state
today
(right),
the
retired
Colonel
spoke
publicly
about
the
repeal,
expressing vindication and noting
that
it is
"the
most
exciting
day of
my
life."
You
can watch
Margerethe
Cammermeyer's interview here.
Subject
of Barwood's "Serving In Silence"
In "Serving for Silence," the Barbra Streisand executive produced
film for Barwood, Glenn Close portrays Colonel Margerethe
Cammermeyer, the true story of a woman who successfully fought the
government's biased policy on gays in the military.
Margerethe Cammermeyer's story made front page headlines
all around America when the film was first broadcast on NBC. Her
military career was distinguished, having served a tour of duty in
Vietnam, and winning a bronze star. When she was discharged from
the Army after disclosing her sexual preference, she chose to
challenge the government. Ultimately, her initial case prevailed
and the government's subsequent appeal was decided in her favor.
She was reinstated in the National Guard in 1994 and has since
retired with full military privileges.
In 1998, Grethe ran for Congress from her home state of
Washington, but lost to the incumbent by a 10% margin. Between
1999 and 2001, Grethe hosted a daily internet radio talk show
where the focus was on human rights and politics. Today, Grethe
Cammermeyer continues to remain politically active, writes, and
occupies her time with her family. |
