Amidst all the celebration of the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell in the recent past, most people were completely unaware that the prohibition of transpeople serving in the ranks remains inviolate.
Well, it remains sacrosanct except for the fact we have served and do serve and probably shall continue to serve…and try to take care of our transitions in the future.
It is estimated that 1 in 5 transpeople have served, do serve or will serve in the military. That is twice the rate of cis-gendered people.
Such was the case for Kristin Beck. Beck served as an enlisted petty officer in the Navy Seals for 20 years, including a tour with the renowned Seal Team Six. That was not under the name Kristin, of course.
Beck retired as an E-8 Senior Chief Petty Officer, having deployed 13 times, during which she earned both a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star.
Beck’s biggest battle came after she retired. It was the battle to become herself.