Leonard Matlovich

1943-1988

Decorated American serviceman who outed himself to confront the U.S. military’s ban on gays serving in the armed forces.

⚲ Southwest corner of Market and Noe Streets

Leonard Matlovich (1943–1988) was a decorated U.S. Air Force Technical Sergeant and one of the first openly gay service members to challenge the military’s ban on homosexuality. A Vietnam War veteran and recipient of the Purple Heart and Bronze Star, Matlovich made history in 1975 when he appeared on the cover of Time magazine under the headline “I Am a Homosexual.” His courageous stand against discrimination led to his discharge and a landmark legal battle for LGBTQ+ rights in the armed forces. Matlovich became a prominent activist and symbol of pride and integrity, advocating for equality until his death from AIDS-related complications. His headstone in Washington, D.C. reads, “When I was in the military, they gave me a medal for killing two men and a discharge for loving one.”