The fringes are clear.

Radical leftists might suggest the inherent intolerance of any organized armed force, calling for the complete abolition of the U.S. military.

The ultra-conservatives cringe at the thought of homosexuality in any part of the public sphere, never mind the front lines of battle.

Move toward the center from here and you'll find those who cite pragmatic reasons for "don't ask, don't tell," noting the military's attitude toward sexuality in any context and the particularly uniform environment the armed forces wishes to foster.

But many of the cadets and midshipmen, while part of the same system, differ ideologically. Most, though, see a need for both negotiation and resolution.

ROTC students currently receive a mixed message, celebrated during Commencement in a Yard commissioning ceremony, yet barred from postering or otherwise acting like any other student group on campus.

ROTC midshipman Jacqlynn K. Duquette '00 says she understands the University's stance against "don't ask, don't tell," but finds its ramifications unfair.

"By not allowing us to poster or table for events on campus, the College is preventing us from expressing that part of our University experience," Duquette says. "This is not such a black and white issue; and there needs to be compromise."

At a recent debate, Air Force ROTC cadet Joe C. Lucas '00 said traveling to MIT for training was the least problematic part of the University's policy.

"I don't really think it's an inconvenience," he said. "That's not the what the issue is all about. It's about whether we feel welcome on campus."