Post submitted by Brian McBride, former HRC Digital Strategist 

Former combat medic Leila Ireland took over HRC's Twitter to reflect on her twelve years of service and remind us all about the importance of a military that welcomes everyone and honors all those who serve -- especially the transgender troops who risk their live every day to keep the country safe.

Hi! This is Laila Ireland - I’m a former combat medic who served in the military for 12yrs & featured in @TransMilitary. #HRCTwitterTakeover pic.twitter.com/IfRQUTgFbW

— Human Rights Campaign (@HRC) July 27, 2017

I’m also married to my amazing husband, Staff Sergeant Logan Ireland, who’s currently on active duty. - Laila #HRCTwitterTakeover

— Human Rights Campaign (@HRC) July 27, 2017

To the surprise of many, we both happen to be trans and have transitioned while serving. - Laila #HRCTwitterTakeover

— Human Rights Campaign (@HRC) July 27, 2017

My husband & I were drawn together by not only our gender identities, but more importantly, our love of country. - Laila #HRCTwitterTakeover

— Human Rights Campaign (@HRC) July 27, 2017

But hearing the news that President Trump has called for a total ban on transgender service members is alarming. - Laila #HRCTwitterTakeover

— Human Rights Campaign (@HRC) July 27, 2017

For years, Defense Dept prohibited me from serving openly & was required to dress according to male regulations. - Laila #HRCTwitterTakeover

— Human Rights Campaign (@HRC) July 27, 2017

Despite my female appearance, I had to correct the patients I treated to use male pronouns. It was embarrassing. - Laila #HRCTwitterTakeover

— Human Rights Campaign (@HRC) July 27, 2017

We were elated when Obama lifted the ban on trans service members - we could finally serve openly for 1st time. - Laila #HRCTwitterTakeover

— Human Rights Campaign (@HRC) July 27, 2017

Trump's ban would jeopardize it all & put thousands of trans service members at risk - including my husband. - Laila #HRCTwitterTakeover

— Human Rights Campaign (@HRC) July 27, 2017

My husband shouldn't be kicked out of the military just because of his gender identity. - Laila #HRCTwitterTakeover https://t.co/IJcRFN3Z8m

— Human Rights Campaign (@HRC) July 27, 2017

I'd love to tell Trump about the thousands of honorably serving trans military members fighting to protect us. - Laila #HRCTwitterTakeover

— Human Rights Campaign (@HRC) July 27, 2017

My #milfam serves because we’re patriots & believe in equality, fairness & justice. These attacks undermine that.- Laila #HRCTwitterTakeover

— Human Rights Campaign (@HRC) July 27, 2017

I hope you can join me & @HRC to #ProtectTransTroops. Text “OUR TROOPS” to 30644 to take action. - Laila #HRCTwitterTakeover

— Human Rights Campaign (@HRC) July 27, 2017