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June is Pride Month, a time when the Department of Defense celebrates the vibrant diversity within its ranks. At the 163d Attack Wing, every Airman’s unique identity is a cornerstone of our collective strength and effectiveness.
Tech. Sergeant Cecelia Slough, a cyberspace operations specialist in the 163d Operations Support Squadron, shared her evolving perspective on Pride month. As a teenager, she didn’t understand its significance. Over time, hearing the history and struggles of others brought her a newfound appreciation for recognizing Pride month. Learning about the deep and storied history of the LGBTQ+ community within the military made her realize the importance of this celebration.
“We are here to be military members; we raised our right hand – same as everyone else,” Slough remarked. With unwavering support from her family and friends, she followed in her father’s footsteps, enlisting in the Air National Guard in 2013. Reflecting on her timing, joining just after the repeal of “Don’t ask, don’t tell”, she felt fortunate to be able to serve as her true self without fear.
Her first supervisor in the military was an incredible ally, treating her with the same respect and support as any other Airman. This acceptance allowed her to thrive and focus on her duties without the burden of hiding her identity.
Slough emphasized the importance of being known by her fellow Airmen. “That’s the person you’re going to be working beside, possibly deploying beside. You want them to understand who you are at home. I think that’s the human behind the warfighter. We have to put on that [warfighter] face when we need to, but someone should know who you have at home that you’re fighting for.”
Her motivation to serve is deeply rooted in her family. Her father, who retired as a Master Sgt. from the Pennsylvania Air National Guard, and her wife, a Respiratory Therapist in the 163d Medical Group, inspire her daily. Serving alongside her literal and chosen family makes her service even more meaningful and enjoyable.
The origins of Pride Month trace back to June 1969 when police raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in New York City, sparking the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. Thirty years later, in 1999, President Bill Clinton declared June “Gay & Lesbian Pride Month.” In 2011, President Barack Obama updated the name to “LGBT Pride Month,” and in 2021, President Joe Biden further expanded the inclusivity, renaming it “LGBTQ Pride Month.”
As we honor Pride Month, we celebrate the courage and authenticity of Airmen like Tech. Sgt. Slough, who embody the true spirit of the 163d Attack Wing. Their stories remind us of the importance of embracing diversity and championing the rights of all who serve.
| Date Taken: | 06.01.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 06.06.2024 16:52 |
| Story ID: | 473249 |
| Location: | MARCH AIR RESERVE BASE, CALIFORNIA, US |
| Web Views: | 179 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, The Human behind the Warfighter, by 2nd Lt. Christopher Sequeira, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
