Leo

When I was younger, I lived my life as a tomboy. In high school, I felt like I needed to be a boy, but I didn’t know how to be a boy.

When I joined the Air Force, I felt awkward as hell to be in the female barracks. I felt so out of place. Once, I had to wear a skirt as part of our uniform, and I hated it. I never felt so uncomfortable in my life.

I was afraid to transition, because I thought I might be kicked out with a dishonorable discharge and lose all my benefits. Then in 2016, the Obama administration lifted the military’s ban on openly serving transgender troops. I transitioned, and I was surprised and extremely blessed to be treated the same as all the other guys. I’m supported all the way around, 360 degrees.

My momma always told me, “Closed mouths don’t get fed. If you have something to say, go ahead and say it, even if the whole world is against you.” 

I don’t go around telling people I’m trans, but if I hear someone talking about trans people in a negative way, I’ll speak up.  You can only go so far with some people, though, because some folks just don’t want to learn.