Army to pay for Manning's hormone treatment. Wait...what?

2015-02-12T20:39:11-05:00

Army approves hormone therapy for Manning. My question is, will the Army pay for for the same thing for an active duty member (serving honorably)?

Rhetorical question.

So, why start with a "Soldier" serving 35 years?

http://usat.ly/1DmBFZd

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2015 8:45 PM

2015-02-12T20:45:08-05:00

Because it is a political nightmare if they don't start the treatment. Saving face as it were.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2015 8:46 PM

2015-02-12T20:46:00-05:00

In this topsy-turvy world, nothing surprises me any more. Sure, why not? Sex change hormone therapy for a convicted traitor.

How could they deny an honorably serving service member the same benefit, MAJ(P) Private RallyPoint Member? I think this could be a new path for transgender folks who can't pay for the necessary "treatment" to go to the other side. Join the military and let Uncle Sam pay your way.

Response by SPC(P) Jay Heenan made Feb 12 at 2015 8:49 PM

2015-02-12T20:49:30-05:00

Perfectly stated! I can't imagine why the Army would even think about spending all of that money and time on a 'Soldier' who is currently incarcerated.

Response by SGT Jim Z. made Feb 12 at 2015 9:42 PM

2015-02-12T21:42:50-05:00

Umm...really my taxpayer money is going to a traitor for her hormone treatments. In my honest opinion fine the government pays up front but the Manning re-pays it.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2015 10:16 PM

2015-02-12T22:16:12-05:00

Doubt it. Transgenderism is deemed a mental health condition you can get booted for.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2015 1:43 AM

2015-02-13T01:43:13-05:00

This is absolutely wrong, in every way possible. If PVT Manning want's be change genders when / if he ever gets out of prison, then good for him. But to have the military pay for it, while we are already hit hard with budget constraints seems like a waste of money to me.

Response by SPC Angel Guma made Feb 13 at 2015 1:54 AM

2015-02-13T01:54:22-05:00

Response by SSgt Nicole Biscoe made Feb 13 at 2015 2:04 AM

2015-02-13T02:04:27-05:00

As a transgender service member who served honorably for the past 11.5 year, this is an insult to my service and also people like Kristin Beck who have put everything on the line for their country. Absolutely sickening... they obviously think more of inmates in America than hard working good ones!

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Feb 13 at 2015 2:18 AM

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Response by SFC Mark Merino made Feb 13 at 2015 2:23 AM

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Response by SFC Michael Jackson, MBA made Feb 13 at 2015 5:57 AM

2015-02-13T05:57:49-05:00

I refuse to consider this traitor a Soldier, and he/she shouldn't be entitled to any benefits/ privileges at the government!

Response by Cpl Jeff N. made Feb 13 at 2015 6:28 AM

2015-02-13T06:28:10-05:00

Manning should have been shot for treason. You see how many problems one bullet can solve. We would also have one less thread to toss in the pile of threads we could have lived a lifetime happily without reading.

The Military has zero reason to enter the fray on transgender anything. This is a purely elective process and surgery. Any time and effort used on this will not increase combat readiness or effectiveness one iota, period.

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Feb 13 at 2015 7:24 AM

2015-02-13T07:24:42-05:00

For starters, I don't agree with this. However I think I may understand the Army's "logic."

1) As long as Manning is incarcerated and on the Roster, we have to cover his medical expenses.

2) The Army has listed Transgender as a mental health disorder

3) They are treating his mental heath disorder

4) The military already offers each of the medical treatments included in this (various hormone treatments, etc).

5) Manning has pretty good lawyers

6) How much is this fight worth politically? If they turn him down, and it goes up the chain (Congress, SCOTUS) to get overturned, then huge policy shifts happen. If they do it voluntarily, then they retain control for much longer, as they pick and choose which soldiers get elective treatment.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2015 9:24 AM

2015-02-13T09:24:54-05:00

I can't say much here without starting a flame war, so I will just say, I am totally against paying for this. Put the money up for the Vets and Active duty members rather then cutting and then we can talk about paying to turn this turd into a woman!

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Feb 13 at 2015 9:26 AM

2015-02-13T09:26:49-05:00

I never thought I'd see the Army go so low. I am lost for words and afraid I'll get very unprofessional.

Response by CPL Hayward Johnson made Feb 13 at 2015 9:58 AM

2015-02-13T09:58:05-05:00

Umm that's YOUR body YOU are responsible for it. If you want to change it YOU should pay for it.

Response by LTC Andrew Loeb made Feb 13 at 2015 10:11 AM

2015-02-13T10:11:32-05:00

Freaky Friday for Bradley/Chelsea!

Response by SPC Neil Hood made Feb 13 at 2015 10:16 AM

2015-02-13T10:16:43-05:00

This guy raised his right hand and swore an OATH to defend the constitution of the United States, a document that goes in detail on what should happen to those who commit treason.

Veterans lose their benefits for a General discharge, but this guy?! He gets to live his life as a woman in a federal penitentiary? This so boils my piss I can't even describe the feeling. Did I mention treason? Yeah treason. Treason...

Let's put in in for a few awards while we're at it.

Response by SSG Christopher Parrish made Feb 13 at 2015 10:18 AM

2015-02-13T10:18:42-05:00

That is BS, he enlisted as a man and if he has changed his mind he should pay for it him/herself. We have SM and Vets who are on public aid and that should be addressed WAY before the Army pays for a friggin sex change.

Response by SPC Neil Hood made Feb 13 at 2015 10:20 AM

2015-02-13T10:20:05-05:00

#disgusted

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2015 10:25 AM

2015-02-13T10:25:56-05:00

WHY WHY WHY??????????????????????????????

Response by CSM Michael Lynch made Feb 13 at 2015 10:26 AM

2015-02-13T10:26:11-05:00

They need to remove that sentence. "Remains a Soldier" my A$$

Response by SSG Keith Cashion made Feb 13 at 2015 10:36 AM

2015-02-13T10:36:58-05:00

On top of the fact that HE is a contibuting writer for the Guardian as well. I think that any income that he receives for that should go towards the changes. From my understanding and I may be wrong, the Military hasn't approved transgender personnel within the ranks. Yes he is a convicted felon, yes he is in a military facility, but still in the military until the sentence is served. Again, I am not a JAG, but that is how I see it. Unfortunately, I see a lot of pandering to individuals as of late.

Response by SPC Charles Griffith made Feb 13 at 2015 10:48 AM

2015-02-13T10:48:35-05:00

I am not going to wade very far in to this swamp. Only as far as to say that I disagree. For me to go much farther would be to put myself in danger of stepping in to quick sand. Good day to all !!! :)

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2015 10:51 AM

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Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2015 11:18 AM

2015-02-13T11:18:46-05:00

Hahaha. I actually have a deviated nasal septum that causes me respiratory distress at night and forces me to sleep with 4 pillows. Guess how many times they have evaluated me and just pushed pills in my direction? Pills don't cure a nasal defect. But I guess if I want to turn into a guy, they will gladly bend over backwards to give me some testosterone and tamoxifen. Lame!

Response by CPT Zachary Brooks made Feb 13 at 2015 11:28 AM

2015-02-13T11:28:28-05:00

So I have two friends that are currently in transition from Male to Female. After speaking in detail to one of them (I understand little about this process) she has informed me her opinion on things.

After looking at a cost analysis she and I both seemed to agree that parts of the procedure could feasibly be covered by an honorably serving member for a fairly inexpensive rate overall. My friend has stated that she feels someone serving possibly six years could then be available for the initial transition period or someone signing at least a six/eight year contract could have their post transition treatments covered.

However, there is a period during the transition (the surgery) that can take the person out for six months, and my friend and I both agree that serving during that period would be unacceptable, as it would serving with any situation that would take you out of service for six months. I think this could be a fair approach.

However, giving these benefits for a convicted traitor (don't get me started on Bergdahl) is complete asinine bullshit! This takes money and resources away from service members that are serving honorably and are giving it to a criminal. Kind of like working out, being fed, and having a place to sleep on the tax payer's dollar because you murdered someone.

Makes me sick.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2015 11:31 AM

2015-02-13T11:31:47-05:00

What precedent has the Colonel who approved it set?

Response by SFC William Swartz Jr made Feb 13 at 2015 11:47 AM

2015-02-13T11:47:08-05:00

Just sayin......

Response by CPO Ed Ball made Feb 13 at 2015 11:48 AM

2015-02-13T11:48:42-05:00

Not until PFC "Bradley" Manning is discharge from the U.S. Army will "he" be considered a veteran, so therefore he's not entitled to VA care and remains under DOD care.

Then this should be handled as any other VA disability claim. If it can be proven that it was a preexisting condition, then the government is not liable for other than the soldier proving the military "Aggravated" his condition.

If the DOD provides the diagnosis and treatment while on active duty, then he/she may be awarded service connect compensation for a mental condition, at taxpayers expense for the rest of his life. Depending on the severity of the medical evidence, and a line of duty assessment that may show the disability existed during his period of honorable service.

Response by CSM Michael Lynch made Feb 13 at 2015 11:52 AM

2015-02-13T11:52:04-05:00

Wow have we even thought of the other implications? Will we now have to supplies the other womanly items, i.e. bra's panties, clothes makeup etc.? I guessing she'll have to receive the female prison garb as well. If this doesn't state crazy WTH does?

Response by MCPO Douglas Pennington made Feb 13 at 2015 12:12 PM

2015-02-13T12:12:23-05:00

We should not be allowing those or approving this type of medical treatment. He's in prison for basically being a freaking spy. What rights does he have for something that is not afforded all military members? He's not even in the military anymore..

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2015 12:16 PM

2015-02-13T12:16:29-05:00

What upside down times we live in. Bradley Manning (yes, I use the name Bradley deliberately, as that is the name under which he enlisted in the Army and under which he was convicted) is a convict serving a 35 year sentence for leaking classified information. In my personal opinion, Convict Manning should serve his sentence as the male inmate he presented himself to be when he took the oath of enlistment.

The argument presented in the article that the Army is merely meeting Manning's medical treatment needs is a specious one. To compare gender transition treatment to treatment for a heart attack greatly minimalizes the controversial moral questions surrounding the gender reassignment process. The necessity for treatment for a cardiac event is quite evident and without question; it is a matter life or death. Can the same be said for gender reassignment treatment?

For the next thirty-some years, Manning's medical care is paid for by the taxpayers of the United States of America. While it is our collective responsibility to ensure that his basic health and dental care needs are met, is it fair and and just to pass the expense of Manning's gender reassignment treatment on to the taxpayers? Manning's condition is not a matter of life and death, and whether or not denying him the opportunity to make this transition is tantamount to "Cruel and Unusual Punishment" is highly debatable. This is a discussion we would not have had 20-30 years ago. Advancements in medical technology have made things like gender reassignment increasingly commonplace. However, just because we can does not always mean that we should. Particularly for those who have committed treasonous acts against their own government during times of conflict.

Response by SPC Tim Brown made Feb 13 at 2015 1:40 PM

2015-02-13T13:40:15-05:00

This is yet another example of the army trying to please all and be PC. It saddens me to see our military cave to such outrageous request. Especially to a soldier that sold out his own nation. In the past such individuals were put in front of a firing squads. The fact that this abomination is still breathing means our government is weak, and are incapable of carrying out any effective punishment whatsoever. I was locked down in a motor pool at Ft.Hood when Hassan attacked it, he is still alive. This Manning gets away with high treason, he is still alive. As long as we allow these two individuals to go on I believe others will continue to stab us in the back with no deterrent. Therefore the efforts of those of us who gave it our all will be in vain.

Response by SPC Tom Maddox made Feb 13 at 2015 2:08 PM

2015-02-13T14:08:23-05:00

This pisses me off on so many levels. So many Veterans that have honorably served, don't even seek out help through the VA, then you have so many Veterans that apply for legitimate disability and after waiting forever get denied. I know some things are above pay grade so to speak but I just can't grasp this one. Should be making a better effort to take care of our honorable Veterans. Rant done for now. SNAFU

Response by SSG Stan Morrison Jr made Feb 13 at 2015 2:09 PM

2015-02-13T14:09:54-05:00

Ugh, disgusted, what it really needs is an injection of 7.62 mm. I read this one on FB, so true if you ask me

Response by SGT Francis Wright made Feb 13 at 2015 2:20 PM

2015-02-13T14:20:50-05:00

Ok, here is the problem, USDB wanted to get ACA Accreditation back in the early '90s. So the DB has to follow DOJ and FBP rules and guidelines; for the care and treatment of inmates. Or loose their accreditation. That is what is going on here.

Response by CPO Bernie Penkin made Feb 13 at 2015 2:45 PM

2015-02-13T14:45:57-05:00

No Manning betrayed his oath, uniform and country. He deserves execution.

From what I read during the trial, there were a lot of red flags on him going all the way back to recruitment. Has an investigation ever been done to locate and punish the chain of low information leadership that signed off on him from enlistment to getting his security clearance which ultimately let him gain access to the information he gave away?

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2015 2:53 PM

2015-02-13T14:53:42-05:00

So let me get this straight. All I hear is that "We don't have funding". "There is no money for this". "There is no money for that". BUT we have a pot of money that is fully available for hormone treatment therapy for a traitor?

So. If you are keeping score at home. I can't get me or my 25Bs to Security + class because there is no money. But there is money to turn Bradley into Chelsea? Girl or guy he is still a traitor. Am I the only one feeling like they didn't get the Astroglide on this one?

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2015 2:58 PM

2015-02-13T14:58:48-05:00

What a load of crap! First, Prisoner Manning ought to serve the entire 35 years. He won't, so when he's up for parole in 6 years and they release him, let him write a book, sell the movie rights and pay for that shit himself.

The Infantry Battalion that I do contract work for got a total of $28K for military schools this FY. You can send a couple of E5s to WLC maybe one or two NCOs to ALC/SLC (depending on where it's at) and one butter bar to BOLC- In a unit where everyone E4 and above needs some kind of PME...

Amazing...

Response by LTC David S. Chang, ChFC®, CLU® made Feb 13 at 2015 3:10 PM

2015-02-13T15:10:47-05:00

I don't know the full reasoning behind this, maybe it is because the Army is afraid of these lawsuits with the ACLU and think it is cheaper to just do this. But on the outset I was disappointed to hear this.

This can open the doors for a lot of different types of requests that may not be the best thing.

Response by SSgt Matthew Lopez made Feb 13 at 2015 3:49 PM

2015-02-13T15:49:56-05:00

What the F.....

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2015 6:43 PM

2015-02-13T18:43:22-05:00

Firing squad and a bonfire to keep the cost down. He only deserves a dirt nap and our disgust. Traitors deserve nothing. Give the cost of his extended incarnation to support programs of our military and dependants.

Response by SFC Benjamin Parsons made Feb 13 at 2015 6:56 PM

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Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2015 7:10 PM

2015-02-13T19:10:31-05:00

We want to be seen as a PC Army. We're leading the way, globally, as the antithesis of evil.
This is the result. Anybody floored?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2015 7:43 PM

2015-02-13T19:43:14-05:00

Science experiment?

Response by Cpl Brett Wagner made Feb 13 at 2015 8:28 PM

2015-02-13T20:28:29-05:00

CPT Randall Blakeslee - Please tell us this story is from the Onion, please? So we have homeless veterans and veterans who can't get treatment who all served honorably but a traitor is getting new equipment on the taxpayers dime? Whaaaat? I'm clicking my ruby slippers together right now There's no place lik home, There's no place like home, There's no place like home, There's no place like home. CRAP! It's not working.

Response by SPC Christopher Shanahan made Feb 13 at 2015 8:52 PM

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Response by PO3 John Jeter made Feb 13 at 2015 8:53 PM

2015-02-13T20:53:18-05:00

Two choices....1. No treatment 2. Give it the hormones along with unsupervised general population residence. Before anyone begins to scream, I have no problem with sexuality, but I detest this traitorous bastard/bitch.

Response by MSG Bobbie Martin made Feb 13 at 2015 9:57 PM

2015-02-13T21:57:41-05:00

I lost my hair shortly after joining the military, I served 20 years retired, if this ass can change his sex at the governments expanse even after being convicted of a crime then the government should pay for my hair implants. What do you think I know they are other bald service members that would love to have a full head of hair for free. Aloha

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2015 1:25 AM

2015-02-14T01:25:01-05:00

While Soldiers BAH is getting cut down

Response by SGT Rik Thibodeau made Feb 14 at 2015 9:04 AM

2015-02-14T09:04:33-05:00

Glad I got out when I did. The military used to be about fighting wars and defending the nation, seems like nowadays it's little more than a frigging petri dish for social experimentation.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2015 9:39 AM

2015-02-14T09:39:06-05:00

And the military wont pay for IVF for those that are steril cant have kids...... Ha!!!

Response by MAJ Ron Peery made Feb 14 at 2015 10:07 AM

2015-02-14T10:07:18-05:00

Absolutely not! Under no circumstances should the government pay for "gender reassignment therapy". Aside from being an absolute waste of taxpayer dollars to advance the LGBT agenda, in every case it is elective treatment. We would not be asked to pay for a breast enhancement procedure. Why should we pay for sex change operations?

Response by MSgt Dennis Dudley made Feb 14 at 2015 10:30 AM

2015-02-14T10:30:52-05:00

This clown is a prisoner, or am I missing something here? Looks like if you make enough noise and get the PC crowd to support you, you can get whatever you want.

Response by MSG Floyd Williams made Feb 14 at 2015 11:46 AM

2015-02-14T11:46:33-05:00

Somebody open up another can of worms, this will be the loophole for PFC Manning to get out of jail because he will become a female. The Army is convicting a male not a female, I can see this guy walking and free surgery to his life over again.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2015 12:10 PM

2015-02-14T12:10:23-05:00

I'd rather keep the fatties.

Response by PO2 Andrea Morgan made Feb 14 at 2015 12:18 PM

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The only thing he should get is basic medical if needed. There are more important things that this money could be spent on.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2015 12:46 PM

2015-02-14T12:46:31-05:00

So if I endanger my fellow service members I can get a face lift?

Response by SSG Leonard Johnson made Feb 14 at 2015 1:19 PM

2015-02-14T13:19:20-05:00

Yep....I can't believe it, soldiers are not being well take care of medically, they lowered benefits with TA, and they're going to change this dude into a girly boy

Response by MSgt Michael Durkee made Feb 14 at 2015 1:29 PM

2015-02-14T13:29:33-05:00

Despicable.

Response by SGT Justin Vinson made Feb 14 at 2015 3:21 PM

2015-02-14T15:21:46-05:00

Its ridiculous spending that money on anyone who wants to undergo hormone treatment. We need that money for the medical side of active duty and VA. Its unfair how service members go without proper treatment and veterans go months waiting on one appointment because of funding issues. And this guy of all people

Response by PO1 Rick Serviss made Feb 14 at 2015 6:00 PM

2015-02-14T18:00:35-05:00

Hormone treatment isn't always used for sex changes. After I retired I got Prostate Cancer. The Hospital gave weeks of radiation. Once that treatment ended, the Dr. started a series of hormone shots (10). He said they were $1,000 each but TRICARE Prime paid the bill. I think for certain medical conditions it's okay but not in Manning's case. It's a personal choice she made. I would like to be given a shot to have a certain body part enlarged but I don't think it's insured.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Feb 14 at 2015 6:03 PM

2015-02-14T18:03:46-05:00

I think someone could have just said, "no, you're in prison".

Response by SSG Robert Burns made Feb 14 at 2015 6:07 PM

2015-02-14T18:07:47-05:00

The Army has been "paying" for PFC Manning for a long time.

Response by SSG Keven Lahde made Feb 15 at 2015 1:36 AM

2015-02-15T01:36:00-05:00

That is how I feel.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Feb 15 at 2015 4:41 AM

2015-02-15T04:41:21-05:00

MAJ(P) Private RallyPoint Member great point. Why a criminal?

Response by SGT Steven Eugene Kuhn MBA made Feb 15 at 2015 5:54 AM

2015-02-15T05:54:07-05:00

Typically I do not comment on things that may be inflammatory becasue there is no reason in emotion, everyone has the right to their opinion and I believe that wholeheartedly.

This case is different, I cannot imagine, and will not try to imagine what it is like to be a woman in a mans body so lets just give him the benefit of the doubt.

Were he active duty there is cause for discussion in my opinion but a guy who says he does not want to serve, is convicted and sitting in prison? No, sorry, no considerations and no special treatment...period.

Respectfully,
Steven Kuhn

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2015 6:47 AM

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OUTRAGEOUS!!!

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Feb 15 at 2015 9:34 AM

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Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2015 10:15 AM

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REALLY.....this man is a traitor, serving a Military jail sentence and now he gets hormone treatment?? We have Money for this and no money to retain good troops or go to much need schools?? What in the world is going on? This is backwards......

Response by PO1 John Meyer, CPC made Feb 15 at 2015 10:37 AM

2015-02-15T10:37:31-05:00

WTH????? Talk about fraud, waste, and abuse!!!! If Manning wants the treatments, he needs to pay for them himself!!!! I DON'T want ANY of my money going towards that!!!!

Response by SPC Tiffany Ivanov made Feb 15 at 2015 10:48 AM

2015-02-15T10:48:27-05:00

This is not why I joined the Army. I sat at my grandpa's knee all my life listening to stories about the real Army.... This shit is soft and ridiculous. This is just one more of many reasons why I question my reenlistment. If it weren't for my daughter, I couldn't have. I no longer feel the pride and respect I did when I first raised my hand.

Response by CSM Carlson C. made Feb 15 at 2015 1:01 PM

2015-02-15T13:01:42-05:00

So, let me preface my statement with, this is the biggest pile of donkey crap I have ever heard. With that said, I could understand if Private Manning was undergoing this therapy prior to his/her incarceration, however... This should not be on the taxpayer dollar especially since this individual conducted treasonous acts during a time of war. But, damned if the Army does, damned if they don't. I'm just gald I'm not the one that had to make this call...

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Feb 15 at 2015 1:53 PM

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Response by SFC Timorhy Hughes made Feb 15 at 2015 2:06 PM

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This shows just how much we have lost focus of our traditions and world mission! How wrong is this you ask? It's wrong on every level! Justify one good reason this good for our Army! Just one! To make a dishonorable soldier feel good! Wow- we have lost our way!

Response by SSG Leonard Johnson made Feb 15 at 2015 2:53 PM

2015-02-15T14:53:53-05:00

what tee's me off bout this...this cat getting some silly A__ surgery to be a girly boy....I been waiting over 2 months to get into pain clinic and PT at the VA....Only in America is a....well....you know what....has more rights than a Vet

Response by SSG Jacqueline Ward made Feb 15 at 2015 6:10 PM

2015-02-15T18:10:58-05:00

I had the same question!

Response by SPC Amalia Feliciano made Feb 15 at 2015 6:40 PM

2015-02-15T18:40:59-05:00

This is crazy!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2015 7:35 PM

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There's no fucking way?! How is this even a thing?

Response by SPC Daniel Edwards made Feb 15 at 2015 9:49 PM

2015-02-15T21:49:58-05:00

Manning has pulled the ultimate scam on the government. He couldn't afford the procedure himself so he found away to make the taxpayers do it for him. He knew what he was doing when he betrayed this country. He wasn't doing it for fame or money because he didn't collect on either (although the fame can probably be argued). The second he got behind bars he made it a point to get the procedure done.

Someone correct me if I'm wrong but I never heard about his sexual orientation being a factor in the trial. Only afterwards.

Response by SSG Craig Person made Feb 15 at 2015 9:52 PM

2015-02-15T21:52:29-05:00

They are doing this bull just for political reasons to save face with the free rights people

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2015 1:52 AM

2015-02-16T01:52:24-05:00

I say we force Bowe Bergdahl to undergo this surgery for being such a deserted BITCH for the last 5 years!

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Feb 16 at 2015 7:13 AM

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Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 16 at 2015 8:24 AM

2015-02-16T08:24:25-05:00

Wow that's crazy

Response by MSG Scott McBride made Feb 16 at 2015 10:15 AM

2015-02-16T10:15:37-05:00

Well, what a surprise. We can fund this traitors way to another life but can't pay the workforce of Homeland Security. Shocker.

Response by SPC Lukas Jones made Feb 17 at 2015 5:32 AM

2015-02-17T05:32:41-05:00

So I have a mixed feeling on this:

Tape deck side A: I know many TG people and I truly believe in their right to be able to declare their gender and have access to medical treatment for them to become whichever gender they identify as. I don't think this is classified as a mental disorder and the stigmas surrounding these individuals by the General public is deplorable as well as the way the media covers these kinds of stories.

Stay with me cuz now we flip to Side B: if a soldier is imprisoned and is serving a 35 year sentence, they should have access to the bare necessity of healthcare and should be serving the sentence they were given by military court. I do not agree that Manning should be receiving this treatment and if Manning desires to change gender, Manning should not be able to get that treatment through the military due to the convicted status.

Out of respect for Mannings TG status, I have kept my references gender neutral. I realize that Manning has requested to be referred to in the feminine gender and be called "Chelsey" and not "Bradley". Perhaps I am being to EO sensitive, but I will extend Manning this courtesy out of respect to my TG friends and community.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 17 at 2015 1:36 PM

2015-02-17T13:36:09-05:00

I believe that this may open the door for people who want to join up only for a sex change.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 17 at 2015 1:50 PM

2015-02-17T13:50:33-05:00

it is shameful that the government is spending the money that we don't have on this convicted pos so he can live as a girl. pisses me off

Response by SGT Nia Chiaraluce made Feb 17 at 2015 4:40 PM

2015-02-17T16:40:21-05:00

After taking the time to read many of the varying responses below, I agree with one of the majority reactions and that is because this previous soldier is now serving time he or she should not be entitled to hormone therapy or gender reassignment surgery. To caveat, I will also say if the allegation of PVT Manning's Transgendered diagnosis is in fact accurate and not a byproduct of mental duress then he knew before being imprisoned that this needed to be addressed. To stipulate further if he had sought treatment for the gender dysmorphia he may not have acted out in the way he did regarding his espionage charges. His actions show there was far more going which contributed to his mental duress which compiled into gender confusion/dysmorphia. If he were to have been chaptered and not imprisoned we wouldn't be having this conversation at all. I say that only to further show that these types of amenities should not be afforded now. We don't give tummy tucks to female prisoner's after they have babies because their mental health is declining. That idea that the defense argument even utters mental duress makes me want to implode and explode simultaneously.

Response by SSgt Brett Barnett made Feb 17 at 2015 7:53 PM

2015-02-17T19:53:26-05:00

Are you kidding me? What in the hell is this country going to? Not enough that this he/she/it is a traitor but we have to fork over funds for it's sex change? I guess they will have to figure out what prison to send it to or let him stay with males then he can be all the tough guys girlfriend. This is a travesty of the entire military system and courts. God help us all!!

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 17 at 2015 7:59 PM

2015-02-17T19:59:05-05:00

This is so unreal its comical! So to add to all the humor maybe Manning got the sex change to better his chances at passing Ranger School!!!!!! HAHaHaha

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Feb 17 at 2015 8:38 PM

2015-02-17T20:38:35-05:00

CPT Randall Blakeslee, Showers? Wrong thread? Does Ft Leavenworth DB have communal showers? If not, then how is the Army going to guarantee Pvt Manning a satisfying, sexual life in his new role? Just asking.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 17 at 2015 10:34 PM

2015-02-17T22:34:06-05:00

Ah politics! And the person who downvoted you, a pox on them. We have people in this cold weather sleeping in their cars and on the sidewalks and there is no money for them. People who served this country honorably.

Response by SFC Douglas Davis made Feb 17 at 2015 10:42 PM

2015-02-17T22:42:20-05:00

Horseshit

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Feb 17 at 2015 11:43 PM

2015-02-17T23:43:37-05:00

If the U.S. is paying for this; when will the U.S. be told/shown/advised that the "procedure" worked and that the government has no further liability?

Response by SPC Angel Guma made Feb 18 at 2015 12:05 AM

2015-02-18T00:05:38-05:00

What ever shred of credibility Manning had to work with, and I emphasize, shred of credibility, is totally and utterly destroyed. The guy is a loon. That he got a TSI is baffling, and whats worse, the taxpayers will pay for a sex change.

America, we're in trouble, and its not just ISIS and Russia we have to worry about. What is so bad about public education and common sense that things like this even happen.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 18 at 2015 12:37 AM

2015-02-18T00:37:07-05:00

Did you know Wikipedia already refers to Manning as "her" and "she"? Goggle she/he/it and see for yourself.

Response by SSG Clarence Moore made Feb 18 at 2015 1:13 AM

2015-02-18T01:13:47-05:00

I just can't see the justification for this!! He would not be physically harmed without the hormone treatment so why give it to him? The only justification I could see is that it would cost more to fight it than the medication would. I think the line should be drawn at a sex change.

Response by SGT Anita Shannon made Feb 18 at 2015 1:16 PM

2015-02-18T13:16:41-05:00

Is this crap for real? I got hurt badly when I was on active duty and all my co-pays are rising for medicine I have to have not want, in order to have somewhat comfortable life. One paycheck and all bills and cost of medicine rising and this person wants, "wants" not needs. Come on wake up....treat the ones whom need not "want". #selfishpeople

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 18 at 2015 3:19 PM

2015-02-18T15:19:25-05:00

We can't even get hand soap or toilet paper in our latrines. What in the actual fuck?

Response by SFC Collin McMillion made Feb 18 at 2015 3:54 PM

2015-02-18T15:54:49-05:00

There are some issues I find so totally outrageous that I cannot even respond, this is one of them, and we are paying for it!!!!!

Response by CPL K Wu made Feb 19 at 2015 5:29 PM

2015-02-19T17:29:17-05:00

He should get the death penalty, end of story

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 20 at 2015 5:59 PM

2015-02-20T17:59:55-05:00

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 20 at 2015 9:19 PM

2015-02-20T21:19:19-05:00

Is that little sh*t still getting a military paycheck, too? I mean.... if he/she whatever is in leavenworth... but still "a soldier".....

doubleyouteeeff

Response by SSG Eddye Royal made Feb 22 at 2015 10:46 PM

2015-02-22T22:46:17-05:00

CPT, I sat in across from the desk 25 years or so ago, at FT HOOD, at 3/82 and had a similar discussion, but it was called how to handle DADT. We had a male predictor and was locked up in the bridge.

If HEY DOD has changed, and you are team is going to have to deal with this issue greater than us back then at your location.

Response by COL Jean (John) F. B. made Feb 22 at 2015 10:49 PM

2015-02-22T22:49:24-05:00

Absolute and complete BS... Our country is broken. At a time when our active duty military personnel, their families, and veterans can't get satisfactory medical care, we can spend limited funds to support this degenerate.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 22 at 2015 11:12 PM

2015-02-22T23:12:52-05:00

Must be something they aren't telling us, or the army really is being that big of a jerk.

Response by SGT Stamatios Lahaniatis made Feb 23 at 2015 8:18 AM

2015-02-23T08:18:37-05:00

Right after he has served his sentence!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 23 at 2015 10:41 AM

2015-02-23T10:41:29-05:00

Makes you wonder where the loyalty is.

Response by SGT Ron Dixon made Feb 23 at 2015 12:59 PM

2015-02-23T12:59:05-05:00

F. NO.....over

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 23 at 2015 1:42 PM

2015-02-23T13:42:58-05:00

There are real medical needs for soldiers and they have to wait long time to get it.

Response by SrA Matt Shuman made Feb 24 at 2015 8:05 AM

2015-02-24T08:05:45-05:00

Do this for a criminal but can't pay for treatments for VETS! WOW

Response by SSG Brenda Garibaldi made Feb 25 at 2015 2:37 PM

2015-02-25T14:37:34-05:00

I dont believe its a "why start" question.....this soldier has a medical diagnosis that has been diagnosed by military physicians that requires certain medication.....no different than a soldier that has diabetics or high blood pressure and r equirers medication to control those diagnoses....being incarcerated prisioners still have rights to approved medical care.

Response by CW2 Eric Scott made Mar 4 at 2015 10:37 AM

2015-03-04T10:37:10-05:00

If by paying for his hormone therapy they mean sending him to a high risk federal penitentiary full of Bubbas, then sure. Beyond that he should have as much entitlement to that as I do to mustache reconstructive surgery.

Response by SPC Emily Clessas made Mar 4 at 2015 1:17 PM

2015-03-04T13:17:21-05:00

Reguardless of his crimes he should have right to hormone therapy. I get tired of hearing judgemental bigot comments about anyone transgender. It is a genetic issue period, how would you like to have a genetic issue like that? I am sure you would appreciate the hatful comments. I transitioned when I got out. Not knowing or understanding my genetic issue until the end of my military carrier I realized that if I was on HRT therapy I would of been better then I was. Say what you want but I served honorably and chose to do this to better myself. I will be damned if I make a bad name for people like me. Being Gay and Lesbian is acceptable. One day this will be too. Were are evolving for the better weather you loke it or not.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 12 at 2015 3:14 PM

2015-03-12T15:14:37-04:00

But yet those who have legit VA claims after deployment are turned down. There's more than just one criminal here!

Response by SFC Enrique Feliciano made Mar 18 at 2015 12:47 PM

2015-03-18T12:47:17-04:00

NO!

Response by SGT David T. made Aug 31 at 2015 3:40 PM

2015-08-31T15:40:39-04:00

Has anyone stopped to consider that they might be doing this to provide morale for the other prisoners? Prolly not the most PC comment, but we need some humor.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 1 at 2015 4:14 PM

2015-09-01T16:14:32-04:00

If Manning gets to become a woman to fulfill his hearts desire, may I request to have my body modified to become a A10 Warthog. I always wanted to be a fighter jet as a childhood dream *sarcasm*

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 1 at 2015 6:15 PM

2015-09-01T18:15:50-04:00

No, but I would pay for a rope and executioner.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 25 at 2016 6:49 PM

2016-01-25T18:49:07-05:00

I've heard of it all... and not to sound "insensitive" but there's no doubt he's already living as a female at the USDB

Response by PFC Pamala (Hall) Foster made Apr 23 at 2017 9:29 PM

2017-04-23T21:29:32-04:00

This is SCARY!!!! He violated so many laws of the UCMJ and they are going to pay for Hormone therapy??? What about the ones of us that served honorably and have SERVICE Connections??? Appeals that are backlogged??? Manning and Bergdahl deserve NOTHING!!!!