GID & The Military

Ziko welcome to the forum and thanks for your service. I, like many of the ladies here, have spent numerous years in military.

Don't ask don't tell has nothing to do with transgenderism in the military's eyes. GID to them is a psychiatric disorder. if you are discovered you will at a minimum receive a medical discharge for a psychiatric disorder. Dressing and behavior on the opposite end of the gender spectrum may result in a conduct unbecoming charge under the UCMJ depending on your chain of command's feelings toward your actions.

Its harsh and in my opinion lacking in compassion and logic compared to many of the militaries of our sister nations. However, it is the reality we live with. You basically have a choice, be out and don't serve or serve and keep this separate from your military life. Kathi is correct you can be in and still find ways, however small, to be true to yourself and your feelings.

You are seeking counseling which is excellent. Tricare will be of no help with GID issues and if you avail yourself to a military counselor or chaplain you do run a risk of being outed. However, the military does have another option. Military one source. They are a private contractor that is only required to report to the military if you are suicidal or may do harm to others. Look it up and give them a call. I am seeing a counselor through this service and have been very upfront concerning my transgenderism.

You are doing the right thing research and ask those in our community that have served advice concerning this. Many of us are our there serving right along side you. Thanks again for your service and sacrifice.

Truth be told, you don't want TriCare involved. As a US Servicemember, you do not have privacy regarding your medical records. Your Chain of Command can examine them when deemed necessary, and the rules to deem so necessary are sufficiently vague and subjective.

OneSource is good... and out of pocket, so it's completely off the radar. In fact, there are times where cash is the way to go.

Good point! Your medical records belong NOT to you, but to the US government....'nuff said....:sad:

Thank you everyone for being so helpful. =)