Veterans forced out for being gay fight for benefits

Veterans forced out for being gay fight for benefits

It’s been more than 10 years since the law known as “don’t ask, don’t tell” was repealed, allowing for gay service members to serve openly. But a CBS News investigation found many of those whose military careers were ended by the policy are still missing out on honorable discharge status and benefits. Jim Axelrod reports.

Truth Analysis

Factual Accuracy
4/5
Bias Level
3/5
Analysis Summary:

The article is mostly accurate, highlighting the ongoing struggle of veterans discharged due to their sexual orientation to receive full benefits. The article presents a clear slant towards advocating for these veterans, but it doesn't appear to contain significant factual inaccuracies. Some claims are not directly verifiable within the provided sources, but they align with the general context.

Detailed Analysis:
  • Claim:** "It's been more than 10 years since the law known as 'don't ask, don't tell' was repealed, allowing for gay service members to serve openly." This is generally accepted knowledge and aligns with the context of the provided sources. While none of the sources explicitly state the exact number of years, they all acknowledge the repeal of "don't ask, don't tell" and its impact on LGBTQ+ service members.
  • Claim:** "a CBS News investigation found many of those whose military careers were ended by the policy are still missing out on honorable discharge status and benefits." Verification Source #2 supports this claim, stating that a CBS News investigation found that veterans are missing out on honorable discharge status and benefits. Verification Source #1 also supports this claim, mentioning that the VA promised to restore benefits but a year later, the guidance is still awaited.
  • Claim:** "An estimated 14,000 service members were kicked out..." Verification Source #2 states that an estimated 14,000 service members were kicked out.
  • Claim:** The article implies that the process of obtaining benefits is difficult for these veterans. Verification Source #4 supports this, highlighting the difficulties veterans face in accessing lifelong benefits.
Supporting Evidence/Contradictions:
  • Agreement:** Verification Source #1 and Verification Source #2 both agree that veterans discharged due to their sexual orientation are still facing challenges in obtaining benefits.
  • Agreement:** Verification Source #2 supports the claim that a CBS News investigation found that veterans are missing out on honorable discharge status and benefits.
  • Agreement:** Verification Source #2 supports the claim that an estimated 14,000 service members were kicked out.
  • Agreement:** Verification Source #4 supports the claim that veterans face difficulties in accessing benefits.
  • Lack of Coverage:** None of the sources explicitly contradict the claims made in the article.