Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month (1-30 June 2017)

During the month of June, the Department of Defense recognizes Lesbian,
Gay, Bisexual And Transgender (LGBT) Service Members and Civilians for their
dedicated service to both the mission and to our Nation. Pride Month
commemorates the events of June 1969 in New York known as the Stonewall riots,
which are largely regarded as the beginning of the LGBT rights movement, and works to
achieve equal justice and equal opportunity for LGBT Americans.

Throughout history, brave LGBT Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and Coast
Guardsmen have served and fought for our Nation. Their readiness and willingness to
serve have made our military stronger and our Nation safer. We continue to take great
pride in all that our LGBT men and women contribute to Army Medicine and our
mission. The hard work, courage, and sacrifices have made them respected members
of our diverse Family.

Diversity and inclusion are readiness imperatives; we rely on our diverse
backgrounds, perspectives and expertise to enable us to address the complex
challenges of the global security environment. Diversity is more than race, gender and
ethnicity?it means diversity of thought, ability, background, language, culture and skill.
During LGBT Pride Month, we celebrate our Nation?s rich diversity and renew our
enduring commitment to equality. Our Nation was founded on the principle that the
individual has in?nite dignity and worth.

During the month of June, I encourage each member of the Army Medicine Team
to please join CSM Ecker and me as we celebrate our Nation?s rich diversity and renew
our enduring commitment to equality for all. Let us be appreciative of those who step
toward to serve our country. Let us take a moment to refocus ourselves on dignity and
respect for all, while we continue to celebrate the diversity of the US Army and 
workforce.

Dignity and Respect!

AW 0. 
GERALD C. ECKER

CSM, USA

Command Sergeant Major

USAMEDCOM anding General, USAMEDCOM