US Marine Sgt Brandon Morgan 'overwhelmed' by public response

The US marine who made history this week through a photograph that shows him kissing his male partner at his recent homecoming, has praised all those who made it possible.

Posting on his Facebook page within the last hour, Sergeant Brandon Morgan says he and his partner have been overwhelmed by all the messages of support. He said: “I have gotten so many emails, messages and friend requests I can barely keep up with it all. I wanted to say thank you for all the comments and inspirational messages I have received. I will try and email everyone I can, but as the list of friends keeps growing its getting harder. […] Also, and this is important. For everyone we have inspired through the picture, know this. I am honored you view as a hero. My partner and I are overwhelmed to be such an inspiration. Remember though, that you being who you are is an inspiration to others as well. Heros are made when you make a choice. […] I can go on forever about you AWESOME AWESOME PEOPLE. Much love and respect to you. lastly, remember you paved the way for me to be able to post the picture in the first place. While I might be your hero because I have made the media. You have been my heros all along.” Digital Journal reported yesterday on the photograph, which shows the two men “sharing a loving welcome home kiss in Hawaii”. The longstanding ban on openly gay men and women serving in the US military was lifted in September 2011.