She campaigned for removal of the discriminatory “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” rule in the American military. A psychiatric nurse at Truman Medical Center, she busted through an Army coverup about her son, who was killed by homophobic members of his unit. She investigated, filed a wrongful death suit, and testified before Congress. President Obama described her efforts as “pivotal” in changing the law.
Sources:
Sam Roberts. “Patricia Kutteles, Driven by Tragedy to End ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,’ Dies at 67.” The New York Times, 20 November 2016. Accessed 26 December 2021.
Emily Langer. “Patricia Kutteles, military mother who helped repeal ‘don’t ask, don’t tell,’ dies at 67.” Washington Post, 17 November 2016. Accessed 26 December 2021.