30 Days of Pride!

June 5: Jeff and Lori Wilfahrt

Jeff and Lori Wilfahrt are tireless and effective advocates for LGBT rights.  Married for 33 years and residents of Minnesota, they have attended countless events across the country speaking on behalf of equality - and their love for their gay son, the late CPL Andrew Wilfhart.

CPL Wilfahrt is believed to have been the first gay American solider killed in action after President Obama signed the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" Repeal Act of 2010. Joining the Army at 29 years old, he was 31 at the time of his death in February of 2011. He is a Purple Heart and Bronze Medal recipient.

Mr. Wilfahrt is currently running for a seat in the Minnesota House of Representatives, on a pro-marriage equality platform. He decided to run after a marriage amendment was placed on the 2012 ballot in the state.  The amendment would define marriage in the Minnesota constitution as between one man and one woman. Mr. Wilfahrt is reminded that while his son was single, had he not been, his partner would not have received the benefits or support that are provided to married straight couples in the event of a death.

The message the Wilfahrt's are carrying through their commitment to equality has become a part of CPL Wilfahrt's legacy, as they continue to remind us of the very real sacrifices all of our service members make, regardless of their sexual orientation.

For more on the Wilfahrt family, click here.