Remember GLBT Vets

This memorial day as we remember the people who served and those who gave their lives for this country, there is one group that not only isn't recognized but many try to deny even exist. They try to discount their service to our country. Thousands of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender people have served this country honorably in the military.

Despite the fact that they have been told they are not wanted, have been persecuted and harassed and too often murdered, they continue to love this country enough to want to serve and protect it with military service.

They have served in every war and in every branch of the military throughout this country's History. They have been enlisted and generals and admirals. They have cleaned toilets and polished brass. They patched up the wounded and killed the enemy.

They have done all this while watching their backs to protect themselves from people they were supposed to be protecting and their own buddies(?). They did this proudly but not without harm to their own sense of worth and well being.

It is not surprising that the first casualty in Iraq was a Gay marine named Eric Alva. He lost a leg in that war and is now speaking out against the "Don't Ask Don't Tell" policy of discriminating and harassing GLBT military personnel. He is a national hero and a hero to the GLBT community not because he is so different, But, because he is so like the vast numbers of GLBT people who have served this country so well. Many have made the ultimate sacrifice.

I ask you to respect and honor their sacrifice and service as they have loved and honored this country. A country which has not always treated them with that same respect and honor. You see I know what they have been through, what they have felt and what they have given. I too am a Gay Vet having served during Vietnam.

I know many of the GLBT veterans out there whose days would be brightened and their lives made whole if you would just say "thank you" instead of "get out".