A person's job performance has nothing to do with sexual orientation ("'Don't Ask Don't Tell' Leads to Nurse's Discharge," News, July). Ms. Witt has apparently served her country well for 19 years. She should be allowed to complete her time in service to meet the requirements for retirement benefits.

I do, however, object to the subtitle's description of Ms. Witt as a "decorated lesbian RN." There is no such thing as a "lesbian nurse." She should be referred to as a "decorated military nurse" who is suing for discrimination. The qualifier "lesbian" should not be used before RN any more than the term "male nurse" should be used to describe a nurse who happens to be a man.

John Forrant, BSN, RN, CCRN

Beverly, MA

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