This is
2023.
Two years ago
that had been removed from the military,
discreetly, for being gay,
and I use that as a generic term
It was the first time they were invited,
indeed, permitted, to take part in
for the first time two years ago,
and a handful of us did it,
and it was one of the most emotional
since having to leave the Air Force.
That camaraderie of coming back.
We had a
a very large contingent of guards
next to us, veteran guards I should add
and we had no clue
You know, it was just
And I remember they all applauded
and we were all nearly in tears.
Now, telling this story.
And one of them said, where have you been?
We've been waiting on you.
And I just talked along
There is a
a change in attitude in the military
There's a desire and a want
a right to be inclusive.
If you are defending your nation
then you surely want the country to
support your life and your lifestyle
and the lifestyle of your friends.
So that's why I'm here telling this story.
Because
the next generations need to make sure
it is to defend everyone's rights
and it is.
The worst possible
insult to a person, in my humble opinion,
to be told you're not good enough
I can think of no greater insult
or a young girl,
than to be told
and that's why
