By AMBASSADOR MICHAEL GUEST | 1/6/13 9:09 PM EST
Why, then, should any of us freeze-frame Hagel’s comments 15 years ago — even as many of us, gay and straight, gladly acknowledge that America’s understanding of, and attitudes toward, sexual orientation and gender identity are changing rapidly?
I consider Hormel both a trailblazer and a mentor. Three years after his nomination, I became our countryÂ’s first openly gay Senate-confirmed ambassador. At the time, a number of people commented to me or, more often, behind my back that I shouldnÂ’t serve as AmericaÂ’s face to the world for no other reason than I am gay.
Like HagelÂ’s apology to Hormel, many of these voices subsequently have admitted that they were wrong.
I cannot claim I know Hagel well. But as a career diplomat, I had occasions to work with him and his staff. In that work, I found Hagel to be a man of integrity — honest and direct in his assessments and willing to seek common ground.
He was true to his word. And if Hagel says he would fully implement the repeal of “don’t ask, don’t tell,” I take him at his word.
Don't judge Chuck Hagel by 1998 comment - Ambassador Michael Guest - POLITICO.com
Hagel opposed the nomination on grounds that Hormel is “aggressively gay” — for which Hagel has since apologized. Hormel has accepted that apology and seems willing to move on.