The Veterans Home of Chula Vista made history when it hosted its first same-sex wedding ceremony.
The Gaily Grind
September 17, 2015
95-year-old World War II veteran, John Banvard, married his boyfriend, 67-year-old Vietnam War veteran, Gerard Nadeau, at the senior living facility where they have lived for the last three years.
The couple, who have been together for over 20 years, decided to get married after the Supreme Court’s actions earlier this year, which allowed same-sex couples to marry.
“We were waiting on the Supreme Court to make that decision,” said Banvard.
They were joined by many of their friends who live at the veteran’s home.
“The world is changing, we have to go along with it,” said one guest.
Chula Vista’s facility director, Neal Asper, said news of two men getting married at the VA home was not well received by everyone. Residents held a town hall meeting at the VA home to address concerns from other residents.
“It’s been somewhat controversial,” said Asper. “I told them, they have the right to get married here just like everybody else.”
Fox5 spoke to one resident who said while he did not agree with Banvard and Nadeau’s celebration of their love for each other, he supported their legal right to do so.
“I just know that it’s against my faith and my religion, but as Americans they have a right to do what they want to do,” he said.
The newlyweds told Fox5 that they hope the wedding will encourage other elderly couples to do the same.
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