Portland gay couple, survivors of Vietnam War, now find peace

Portland gay couple, survivors of Vietnam War, now find peace.

That is the title of an article on the front page of "The Oregonian" today.

I know very well who these two people are, Tom Norton and Bao Nguyen. I read this article in the paper this morning, and then online looked up "The Oregonian" and then typed in the search bar for Tom Norton. My Hubbie has been friends with Tom forever, and the man truly is a silent hero. Boa is cut from the same cloth, and to be in a room with them together is to see greatness.

After reading the online comments, there were some of the most heartfelt and sincere responses one could hope for, but unfortunately some of the most bitter.

To Tom and Boa, it has always been, and will always be an honor for me to be in your presence. The histories each of you have endured are horrific at best, and yet you are two of the sweetest, most amazing individuals I have ever known. It is a wonderful gift to know you.

Most of my readers have a strong understanding of the strength and courage it takes to join the military as a homosexual, especially when it requires war time participation. I have lived it, I have been there, and I would not wish it on anyone. Having said that, my time in the military was a child at the playground compared to Tom's. He saved peoples lives by putting his own at risk, and in return he is belittled and degraded by pathetic fucking idiots who have not a clue the cost of freedom. My deepest respect will always be with Tom and his sacrifices, but my respect for the citizens of the country we both fought for is very much at risk.

I find it disturbing that in todays situation, of americans coming home in body- bags, in pieces, or in just plain empty shells of what they once were, that our society still is able to spit such distain without even the slightest second thought. Gay, straight, male, female, black, white or even purple, I don't care what the label, a veteran has paid the fee to be worthy of respect, period.

I am proud to have served in the footsteps of greatness. Your sacrifices, Tom, are not unnoticed.