Technical Sergeant Leonard Matlovich (1943–1988) was a Vietnam War veteran, race relations instructor, and recipient of the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star.
Matlovich was perhaps the best-known openly gay man in America in the 1970s. His fight to stay in the United States Air Force after coming out of the closet became a cause célèbre around which the gay community rallied. His outspoken manner resulted in articles in The New York Times and a television movie on NBC. His photograph appeared on the cover of the September 8, 1975 issue of Time magazine, making him a symbol for thousands of gay and lesbian service members.[1] In October 2006, Matlovich was honored by GLBT History Month as a leader in the history of the GLBT community.
NOW IF ANY ONE WANTS TO TAKE ISSUE WITH THIS POSTING YOU HAVE THAT RIGHT JUST KEEP IT CIVIL.IF YOU STOP FOLLOWING ME BECAUSE OF THIS POSTING,I WILL MISS YOU.![Reblog this post [with Zemanta]](https://lh3-testonly.googleusercontent.com/blogger_img_proxy/AEn0k_uQp_CqpJQ1su8RWPsjO-eaQsZkykM5ZyZ-eB0Jw9J1abhQkRubfTYoEuUogIacgn6FM0DEHcqPRi-BOi0oy8iPhICKB8SiXFdIs_XFuswfqGl8MTcDzFLTybG26WXZKJsem0zhXvuuExttAoPxWyo6=s0-d)
I'm with you all the way on this Mike.
ReplyDeleteThe epitaph says it all - medal for killing, discharge for loving - absolutely ridiculous!
Well done Sir. I also support the right of all to live and serve.
ReplyDeleteRegardless of whether you are for or against gays has no bearing. A persons sexual orientation does not determine their qualifications to do a job.
ReplyDeleteNo problem here, my brother is gay and my sister in law is gay.
ReplyDeleteWow, that tombstone really says it all.
ReplyDeleteI had never seen that tombstone before but I hope lots of people drop by and read it.
Travis,Ann,Just Breath,Mountain woman,I believe in the live and let live policy.I also believe to discrimated for any reason is wrong as well.
ReplyDeleteGreat posting Mike. Leonard was indeed an inspiration. Good for you on posting this.
ReplyDeleteHave a terrific day Mike. Big hug. :)
Brother MIKE, you KNOW where I stand with this issue and I won't back down.
ReplyDeleteJESUS said to love ALL mankind. Not just the ones we agree with. I completely and unwaveringly support the gay community. After all, they've tolerated mine!! :)
Love and hugs to you for having the courage to stand up!
A Stich In Thyme,I have had this belief for a very long time.A close friend of the family and some one I care about is a lesbian.I have worked with gay men as well.they respect me for me and I respect them the same way.
ReplyDeleteSandee,I believe He served with honor as would any person Gay or Strait would do.
ReplyDeleteLive and let live--I believe that the tombstone says it all. Thanks Mike for your open mindedness.
ReplyDeleteSyd,I believe that if people were to be more tolerent of others that maybe we could get a dialog going that will lead to peace,Just a thought.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you posted this, Mike. That headstone is very powerful.
ReplyDelete"Tart,yes it is.
ReplyDelete