On Wednesday, “Pride Month” kicked off the month-long awareness movement recognizing the LGBTQ+ community. The U.S. military showed its support for the movement with graphics and profile photos on social media.
The U.S. Marines posted a photo showing a marine helmet decorated with six rainbow-colored bullets. In a caption along with the photo, the Marines said, “Throughout June, the USMC takes #Pride in recognizing and honoring the contributions of our LGBTQ service members. We remain committed to fostering an environment free from discrimination, and defend the values of treating all equally, with dignity and respect.”
The post was the most prominent of the military’s Pride posts, with more than 13,000 comments on Twitter and nearly 16,000 comments on Instagram. Users both praised the Marines for its public support of Pride Month, as well as criticized the branch for choosing the cause above others, such as PTSD awareness.
The U.S. Air Force shared a photo showing an airman with a black-and-white filter except a rainbow-painted hand overlayed with the #CelebratePride tag. “Happy Pride Month! We are the best #USAF by leveraging the diverse backgrounds & strengths of each member of our total force. We are committed to making the #AirForce a place where all can reach their full potential,” the post said.
The U.S. Space Force tweeted an interview with Maj. Gen. Leah Lauderback, director of the LGBTQ Initiative Team, on efforts to “change policy, change minds, and create opportunities for LGBTQ+ members of the military.”
The U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command posted a photo showing two same-sex couples beneath the text “Pride in all who serve.”
“Happy #PrideMonth! Throughout June, the #USArmy joins the Nation in paying tribute to the selfless and dedicated service of brave LGBTQ Soldiers & Civilians who have made our military stronger and the nation safer!” the post said.
The Defense Intelligence Agency posted a Pride month animation and said, At DIA, our success depends on the skills and backgrounds of a diverse and inclusive workforce. During #PrideMonth, join us as we celebrate our #LGBTQ+ teammates for their contributions to our mission.”
The U.S. Naval Hospital Rota in Spain posted a Pride graphic created by the Military Health System, and said, “The Defense Health Agency (DHA) recognizes the work of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender Americans in establishing a free nation that values diversity, a vital component of a free nation. The fight against discrimination and the promotion of diversity and inclusion are critical components of our national defense. Many LGBTQ Americans have proudly fought to uphold these values at home and abroad, playing a major role in the fight to obtain equality for all.”
The Army’s 10th Combat Aviation Brigade, 10th Mountain Division updated its profile picture adding a rainbow flag background to the unit logo. “10th CAB celebrates Pride Month. We stand with our Soldiers who identify as LGBTQ+,” they added along with the change.
The District of Columbia National Guard marked the day with a “Happy Pride Month” graphic inviting the public to a panel discussion on LGBTQ+ experiences among service members and veterans. The event will be held next week at the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Easterseals.
