WASHINGTON – Reversing an earlier decision, the Air Force said Monday it intends to discharge a lesbian Air Force officer who had remained in the military despite openly declaring her homosexuality.
An Air Force general this year concluded that Lt. Robin R. Chaurasiya should not be discharged, saying she had declared her sexual orientation for the purpose of avoiding military service.
But after Chaurasiya spoke publicly about that decision, the Air Force announced a further review. On Monday, Air Force officials told Chaurasiya that a more senior officer, Gen. Raymond E. Johns Jr., reversed the decision and recommended she be honorably discharged.
“I am kind of heartbroken,” Chaurasiya said. “I felt my situation was hinting at changes. I really thought I would be able to lead the way for a more equal military.”
Currently stationed at Scott Air Force Base in Illinois, Chaurasiya plans to return to her home in Chicago after she is discharged.
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