Title
To Recognize and Congratulate Dean Vickers for receiving the 2018 Stonewall Columbus LGBT Veterans Recognition Award
Body
WHEREAS, Dean Vickers is a 4-year veteran of the United States Coast Guard and Coast Guard Reserve; and
WHEREAS, Dean began his service at The Ohio State University. Serving as a Sergeant, he planned on making a career out of the military after his graduation. Unfortunately that dream was cut short by policies that barred LGBT community members from the Armed Forces; and
WHEREAS, Despite having an exceptional record in the military and being well liked and respected by his fellow service members, Dean was informed that questions had been raised about his sexuality and he was encouraged not to re-enlist when his service time was coming to a completion; and
WHEREAS, After his honorable discharge Dean began dedicating himself to helping LGBTQ youth and adults and homeless people as an HIV/AIDS educator in the Dayton, Ohio area. He authored a popular advice column, 'ASK DEAN', focusing on issues within the LGBTQ Community; and
WHEREAS, Currently Dean advocates for animal rights in the State of Ohio and has volunteered for rescue missions during hurricanes Katrina and Rita; now, therefore
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
That this Council does hereby express its appreciation for Dean Vickers for his service to his country and the LGBTQ community in Columbus. This Council does hereby congratulate him on receiving the 2018 Stonewall Columbus LGBT Veterans Recognition Award.