Oliver W. Sipple epitomized service in the eyes of many. However, simply because he was gay, his own parents and hometown of Detroit Michigan rejected this hero and disabled Vietnam veteran. Thirty-five years has come and gone and it is high time America honors this gay hero in a special and meaningful way.

We have a custom where we have placed the name of a prominent figure on a piece of newly enacted legislation when warranted. This is to honor or recognize certain individuals, whether living or dead, who have influenced our lives for the purpose of betterment.

Yes there are others who deserve consideration. However, the treatment of Sipple, after he saved the life of the president is a statement that needs an exclamation point on rediculous. And naming the DADT repeal legislation after Sipple says we Americans no longer reject a hero simply because he is gay.

I support honoring this forgotten gay American hero and Marine Oliver W. Sipple by placing his name on the repeal of DADT or any legislation whereby current and future gay soldiers can serve openly we will be making progress. I also believe this will help sway reluctant members to understand how counter-productive it is to deny homosexuals to serve our country in the military.