Our Mission
Gay First Responders is a grassroots initiative to bring visibility, community, and support to LGBTQ+ individuals serving as first responders—paramedics, firefighters, police officers, and EMTs. We highlight PTSD awareness because it is a topic no one wishes to address, yet the need is greatly there. There is no shame in asking for help.
We are part of the non-profit GayVeteransUS-Inc. 501(c)(3) umbrella of websites supporting the LGBTQ Veterans Community.
Our Founder & Webmaster
Bill Kibler is a 100% VA disabled, hearing-impaired USMC Beirut Veteran, now retired having served 11.5 years at the Nashville VA Hospital. He served with the Military Police Department for 1.5 years at Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii.
Bill's late father was a Captain in the Fairfax Co. (VA) Fire and Rescue Service in charge of Communications. Bill also served five years as a community outreach specialist with the DC Metropolitan Police Department’s Gay and Lesbian Liaison Unit (GLLU).
Having managed the American Psychological Association (APA) Journals Program website for 13.5 years, Bill is deeply familiar with PTSD and its impacts on both Veterans and First Responders.
A Note on Language
In dealing with the general community when they address you as a "gay first responder", correct them and say you are a "first responder who happens to be gay". It replaces the operative and it's an easier pill to swallow for those you are addressing.
With respect to those who say "Thank You For Your Service", simply reply with "You Were Worth It". Veterans use this as a standard response, and it carries deep meaning.