The Nethers-Evans Family

August 22, 2012

My name is LT Zachary Nethers.  I have served for four years in the United States Army.  On April 28th, after seven years together, I married my husband Marshall Evans in Washington DC.  I have two biological daughters who live with us.  Marshall is a huge figure in their life.  Our children are well cared for, in part, because of his dedication and love.  They refer to him as their stepdad.  Despite all of this we are denied the dignity of our marriage being recognized by the federal government and our home state of Ohio.
During the course of our relationship I served under “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” and had to hide my true self.  Now, while I am able to serve openly I am still facing discrimination.  Marshall is denied any benefits should he or I get sick.  We support one another and our children but are denied the simple rights that others take for granted.  I can serve and give my life for my country but am still denied the rights I fight to protect.  This to me just isn’t right.  I hope you will support us as we support each other and our country.
With great respect,
LT Zachary Nethers
 
Please note: The views expressed are my own and do not reflect the views or policies of the United States ArmyAugust 22, 2012

Dear Members of Congress,

My name is LT Zachary Nethers.  I have served for four years in the United States Army.  On April 28th, after seven years together, I married my husband Marshall Evans in Washington DC.  I have two biological daughters who live with us.  Marshall is a huge figure in their life.  Our children are well cared for, in part, because of his dedication and love.  They refer to him as their stepdad.  Despite all of this we are denied the dignity of our marriage being recognized by the federal government and our home state of Ohio.

During the course of our relationship I served under “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” and had to hide my true self.  Now, while I am able to serve openly I am still facing discrimination.  Marshall is denied any benefits should he or I get sick.  We support one another and our children but are denied the simple rights that others take for granted.  I can serve and give my life for my country but am still denied the rights I fight to protect.  This to me just isn’t right.  I hope you will support us as we support each other and our country.

With great respect,
 

Zachary Nethers
Lieutenant, United States Army 

Please note: The views expressed are my own and do not reflect the views or policies of the United States Army

Click here for a PDF of the Nethers-Evans Family Letter

 

 


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