"To be honest, each time I was commended on my courage, I couldn't help but remember how scared I was that I would be found out as gay and kicked out of the military. I remember the fear I felt when people around me in the military started debating the new "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy even before it became law. During training meetings people would make such nasty remarks about homosexuals. Still, my proudest moments during my 13 years in the military came when I would confide in one of my friends about my sexual orientation and they would still treat me with the same respect as before."

"Although I'm no longer wearing the uniform of the U.S. Marine Corps, my mission continues to be protecting the rights and freedoms of all Americans. I have realized that I have an obligation to myself, my partner Darrell and gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Americans across the country to stand up and speak out for our deserved rights."

-Eric Alva

Let's repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" and let's eradicate discrimination for LGBT Americans who serve or want to serve in the US armed forces. Their commitment and sacrifices are no less than their heterosexual brothers and sisters, and their fight for our freedom and security of this nation is no less either!