TED: Deaf in the military | Keith Nolan

The speaker, a deaf individual, shares their lifelong desire to join the military, despite being repeatedly disqualified due to their hearing impairment. They discuss their journey from aspiring soldier to teacher, and their realization of perpetuating limitations on deaf individuals. The speaker explores the inclusion of deaf soldiers in the Israeli military and their own experiences in the ROTC program, highlighting the challenges and support they received. They advocate for policy changes to allow deaf individuals to serve in non-combat roles in the U.S. military.

What was the main reason the speaker was unable to join the military initially?

• Family opposition

• Lack of interest

• Financial constraints

• Deafness

What realization did the speaker have while teaching a deaf student?

• He needed to learn sign language.

• He should move to Israel.

• He wanted to change his career.

• He was perpetuating the message of 'no' to the next generation.

What did the speaker discover about deaf soldiers in Israel?

• They require constant interpreters.

• They are not allowed in the military.

• They serve in non-combat roles.

• They are only in combat roles.

What percentage of U.S. military jobs are non-combat, according to the speaker?

• 80%

• 60%

• 50%

• 70%

How did the speaker's ROTC experience begin?

• As a trainer

• With a leadership role

• As an observer

• With full participation

What was the speaker's reaction to receiving a uniform in the ROTC program?

• A sense of honor

• Disappointment

• Indifference

• Confusion

What challenge did the speaker face regarding the medical exam in the ROTC program?

• He failed the physical fitness test.

• He was unable to pass the hearing test.

• He did not have the required documents.

• He missed the exam date.

What historical parallels does the speaker draw to advocate for policy change?

• Inclusion of African Americans and women in the military

• The Civil Rights Movement

• The end of the Cold War

• The Vietnam War protests

Who did the speaker approach to advocate for his cause?

• The President

• The Secretary of Defense

• His congressman

• The Governor

What is the speaker's ultimate goal in sharing his story?

• To gain personal recognition

• To promote his teaching career

• To discourage others from joining the military

• To change military policy for deaf individuals