Defense Secretary Ash Carter this week wrote a letter affirming the Dept artment of Defense support of the LGBT community.
This is Pride Month, and Carter wrote that as the gay community gathers with its family, friends and allies, the DOD recognizes the service by brave LGBT soldiers, sailors, airmen, Coast Guardsmen and Marines who have fought for their country.
He said, "Their readiness and willingness to serve has made our military stronger and our nation safer. We continue to take great pride in all that these men and women contribute to the Department and our mission. Their hard work, courage, and sacrifices make them respected members of our diverse DoD family."
The Secretary of Defense added that - quote - 'our republic was born from the idea that all are created equal and endowed with unalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.'
Carter wrote that the DOD takes pride in all who step forward and that those who answer the call to service are doing the noblest thing they can do with their lives in providing security for others.
