Greg Mooneyham '87

When I graduated in 1987, I literally looked at USAFA in my rear view
mirror as I drove away and was relieved that I did not have to go back. I
had 60 days leave and the pressure would be off until UPT. Little did I
know that UPT and my career as a pilot would present even greater
challenges and pressures. USAFA prepared me well to meet those days
ahead. But there was always one thing that nothing could prepare me for
and one thing that was my burden to bear alone. I was a gay cadet, I was
a gay officer, and I was a gay Fighter Pilot. The enormous pressure to
conform, to hide my true self and to always be just a little separated from
my fellow cadets, officers, and fighter pilots was the greatest pressure of
all. It was the main factor in my decision to leave the service that I truly
loved.

Years after looking at USAFA in my rear view mirror, I returned. I have
now come back many times and I have the same experience each time. In
spite of the separation I felt from my fellow service members, I never felt
separated from this place. I feel a deep connection here that I find hard
to explain. The changes that this school made in me were profound. In
many ways I feel as if I was born here. No Air Force policy and no
amount of bigotry or hatred could change that. I belonged because I met
the same challenges as all others. When I returned for my 20 year
reunion, I was honest with my classmates for the first time about who I
really was and it was liberating.
So, only one thing for me was missing. Full acceptance for all LGBT
military personnel would finally allow all to serve with integrity and
excellence in all that they do. When that day finally came, things
changed. It may be too late for me to serve again but finally I no longer
feel that separation from my fellow cadets, officers, and fighter pilots. I
feel welcome here at Doolittle Hall. I walk the paths outside and weep
for those that have fallen. I paint my face blue and cheer for the Falcons.
These mountains, these buildings, these memorials, and these
monuments always welcomed me back. And now finally the Air Force
welcomes me back too.
Greg Mooneyham | USAFA Class of 1987