Thanks to President Obama’s leadership, this June, the Pentagon is marking LGBT Pride month for the first time in history.

This celebration comes just nine months after the military implemented the full repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” Before the repeal, gay and lesbian servicemembers could not openly serve simply because of whom they loved. Now, thanks to President Obama, our dedicated men and women in uniform no longer have to serve in silence for fear of being discharged.

When President Obama signed the repeal of “Don't Ask, Don't Tell” on December 22nd, 2010, he made it possible for the Department of Defense to justly celebrate the diversity and service of these distinguished men and women who have devoted their lives to serving our country. And this month, the Pentagon is doing just that.

Watch and share Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta's message thanking gay and lesbian servicemembers.