Robert Ellestad, left, and his husband Christian Baeff, right enjoying their time together.
This Veteran's Day, it's important to celebrate the contributions of LGBT men and women who've put their lives on the line. Unfortunately, a percentage of these veterans and their families are sometimes overlooked or forgotten.
People like our friends Christian Baeff and Robert Ellestad in Oregon, with whom GLAAD has worked closely, still struggle with the after-effects of going to war. Three years after the repeal of "Don’t Ask Don't Tell" too many LGBT veterans feel marginalized despite having, in so many cases, served and protected their country while also having been forced to hide their identity. Although changes have been made they still often face daunting processes to get the help they need to deal with PTSD and other consequences of service.
At GLAAD, we urge media to include in their Veteran's Day coverage people like Robert and Christian, like Eric Alva in Texas, an outspoken Marine turned LGBT activist who was the first to be injured in the Iraq War, and so many others.
This holiday, let's make sure to thank LGBT veterans and their families for all they have done and continue to do.