To observe Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Pride Month, USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) Sailors celebrated with events in the forecastle and on the flight deck, June 8.

Events like Celebration remind GHWB Sailors that no matter what someone's sexual preference, they should be treated with dignity and respect. Information Systems Technician 1st Class Hoza Wallace learned this from personal experience.

"Personally, I struggled to accept LGBTs; my daughter's uncle changed that," said Wallace. "He's gay and has AIDS. I saw the love he had for my daughter and how he treated her. She loved him, which made me change my views. I just came to realize that I was wrong because he really was no different. I was just not accepting, but thankfully, I didn't miss an opportunity to make a friend."

Many Sailors attended the events, simply called "Celebration," wearing tie-dyed t-shirts made by the American Diversity and Heritage Observance Committee (ADHOC) to show support for the LGBT community -- which, in turn, creates a more comfortable work environment for the entire crew.

"It makes me feel way more comfortable on the ship," said Seaman Mursades Keller. "I feel safe knowing that my shipmates won't be looked down upon because of their sexual preference."

The Navy and Department of Defense have made great strides in accepting the LGBT community with the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," recognizing same sex marriages and allowing service members to take emergency leave to take care of a seriously ill spouse regardless of gender.

"It's great to see how far the Navy has come with acceptance," said Wallace. "Hopefully our celebration of this event will open someone's eyes."

Celebration is a symbol of progress and creates a more comfortable atmosphere for members of a community who may have not felt welcomed in the past.

"This event raises awareness that is needed on the ship," said Keller. "This event is one step forward in helping people have a better understanding."

The DoD puts high value on maintaining equality, and events like Celebration highlight service members' commitment to the fair reatment of all.

GHWB is currently undergoing a planned incremental availability period at Norfolk Naval Shipyard.

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For more news from USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), visit http://www.navy.mil/.