Much-Needed Talent

“The Defense Department should not reinstate the transgender ban,” he said, “because it would undermine readiness, cause significant disruptions and uncertainty, deprive the military of much-needed talent, and wreak havoc with the lives and careers of the 14,700 transgender troops bravely protecting our nation’s security.”

Jody Davis, a transgender woman who is trying to join the Ohio National Guard, said she found it absurd that she may not be able to, since she had already served for eight years.

She joined the National Guard at 17 and became a sergeant in an armor crew. Now 48 and a nurse, she wants to rejoin the Guard as a part-time officer and social worker.

“It’s ironic,” she said. “I’ve already proved myself, and now they say I’m disqualified.” As part of her yearlong effort, she lost 53 pounds and submitted reams of medical records.

“I might be able to slip in just under the wire, before the ruling takes effect,” she said. “If so, it will provide a bit more stability for my family, but that’s not why I’m doing it — I want to serve my country again.”

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