Gay Marine’s husband surprised at respect shown by Naval Academy

[metta]

Gay Marine’s husband surprised at respect shown by Naval Academy

"A marriage certificate was the key"

The memorial coordinator asked about his relationship to the deceased. Ketterson said that John Fliszar was his husband.

“They were always polite, but there was this moment of hesitation,” Ketterson recalled. “They said they’re going to need something in writing from a blood relative. They asked, ‘Are you listed on the death certificate?’ ‘Do you have a marriage license?’ ”

He was and they did, the couple having been married in Des Moines when gay marriage became legal in Iowa two years ago.

Ketterson sent a copy of the marriage license. That changed everything.

“I was respected,” he said. “From that moment on, I was next of kin. They were amazing.”

http://www.suntimes.com/3526027-417/ketterson-academy-naval-usna-husband.html

 

[Hellax24]

Great story, Very positive. Thanx.

CXXX

 

[metta]

“They did the standard military funeral, a wonderful service,” said Ketterson. “Since I was the designated next of kin, they were going to present the flag to me, but I deferred to his mom. She gave it to me.”

 

[looseliam]

Bravo zulu!

 

[mydrew1]

US Navy has been long as gay-friendliest in the US military, as far as I can see. Air Force 2nd, and ground forces distant 3rd.

 

[T-Rexx]

Wonder what the Naval Academy would have said if the spouse had claimed "He was my partner in civil union."

 

[operafan]

Great story. I look for the time when it will not be noteworthy - but it is a long time away.

 

[metta]

Married Gay Troops Won't Be Recognized After DADT Repeal


http://www.ontopmag.com/article.aspx?id=7433&MediaType=1&Category=26


but...but....they already have...

 

[joaama]

People that didn't want DADT repealed knew that if it was repealed that there was no way the country could deny a soldier/veteran the right to marry.