Your Stories 2189

Lara Ballard

My name is Lara Ballard, and I am a lesbian former Army officer. I used to find it hard to introduce myself to people that way, marrying these two very central aspects of my identity. These days I do it frequently, and it makes me feel better every time I say it.

Leonard W. Peacock

My name is Leonard W. Peacock. In 1995, I decided to enlist in the U.S. Army. Going through the reception station, I was asked if I was a homosexual. I never really thought anything of it, and I said no. I wanted to serve my country, just like my father had.

Nick Marulli

I enlisted in the Navy right out of high school. As a son in a military family, it was the natural thing to do. I loved my country, and my parents taught me that freedom is something we do not take for granted.

Rick McGilton

My lucky number, 13, came up in the draft and I opted to enlist in the Coast Guard. My duties included being a search and rescue D-8 coxswain on a 32-footer in San Francisco Bay.

William T. Atkins

I am a retired Air Force officer, a heterosexual male. I have been married more than 45 years to the same woman, with two children and some beautiful grandchildren. I believe my oath to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States requires me to fight for equal rights for all.

A.J. Legault

I joined the Army right out of high school. It was a chance to challenge myself, serve my country and learn valuable life lessons. I was still in the closet, and I was petrified when the recruiter asked about my sexual orientation. I lied and headed to my new life.

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