Navy ROTC Requiring Applicants to Sign Form Citing Ban on Gays

WASHINGTON —  The Navy’s Reserve Officer Training Corps is now requiring applicants to sign an affidavit that says they could be discharged and required to refund scholarship money if they are found to be homosexual, officials said Thursday.

“This statement is new for the Navy ROTC . . . and it ensures that the incoming candidates understand the Department of Defense policy regarding homosexuals,” said a Navy spokesman, Lt. Cmdr. Steve Pietropali.

President-elect Bill Clinton has said he intends to adhere to a campaign pledge to lift the ban against homosexuals in the military. But he has said he will consult closely with top U.S. military officers, who strongly oppose lifting the ban.

Pietropali said the form was approved by Navy leaders over the summer for use this school year. About 7,000 college students are in the training program. Upon graduation, they are commissioned as active duty and reserve officers.

The Army and Air Force have similar policies against allowing gay and lesbian students to attend military academies or take part in their ROTC programs.

Lt. Cate Mueller, a Navy spokeswoman, confirmed the new step in response to questions about a strong letter of complaint sent by Rep. Patricia Schroeder (D-Colo.) this week to Defense Secretary Dick Cheney.

Schroeder said she received complaints from students and gay rights groups against what she called “this inquisitorial affidavit” for ROTC students.