Celebrating LGBT Veterans with AGLA
On Sunday, I was honored to represent SLDN and join the Arlington Gay and Lesbian Alliance (AGLA) at Congressional Cemetery for its annual memorial service honoring LGBT veterans. Held at the grave site of Air Force Technical Sergeant Leonard Matlovich, veterans, current service members and allies gathered to honor those who have come before us, as well as the new generation of LGBT military leaders.
Just a year ago, and only a few months after my own “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” discharge, I remember the same memorial but with a different tone: we were still advocating for LGBT service members who were serving in silence. This year, with a successful vote, certification and repeal behind us, we were able to celebrate history, knowing that for the first time gay and lesbian members of the military could not be discharged under DADT. Attendees of the memorial event reflected on this fact, acknowledging that there is still work to be done before full equality is achieved.
With Veterans Day approaching later this week, we take time to thank all the brave Americans, including the LGBT patriots and their families, who have sacrificed so much for the well-being of this country. We recognize the commitments of everyone who has ever worn a military uniform and salute them for their service.
11-09-11 By Danny Hernandez, SLDN Development & Communications Assistant |
