The transgender military community has been rocked this morning upon learning of the suicide of a transgender veteran, Jess Shipps. The Military Freedom Coalition reports that from what has been known so far, certain people received a goodbye letter from Shipps this morning – including a member of that organization.
One of the nation’s leading transgender military activists, Shane Ortega released the following statement:
“I am horrified to say that Jess Shipps has passed away. She was a transgender military veteran of the United States Air Force. She took her own life due to the struggles very often faced by transgender women – especially veterans. I had been friends with her for two years and her story is one I shared oftentimes.”
such sad news. I served with her at JPAC in Hawaii. She was always so happy and kind to everyone. NO ONE. Should ever be made to feel that death is better than life. Gone too soon. REST IN PEACE
Many service personnel are suffering under starched regulations that ,despite lip service, still tries to crush any transgender personnel or hound them from service so, sadly, its no wonder suicide is seen as an option to some.
Tragic for anyone connected to this lovely person. People on the outside have no idea what we go through, the pain we have to endure just to be happy and accepted…RIP.
Loss to America. Our country can do so much for other countries…. Why can’t we “save” our own ? I totally understand her struggles. If you don’t know a transgender person, “Get to know us”…Volunteer somewhere. We are in every part of the fabric in the world. I am in a downtown SRO Hotel in Los Angeles,. Ca. I was destroyed, and by the grace of God I will stand again some day and be a brighter beacon for the betterment of human life. Jess Ships, thank you for your service to OUR great country and for standing outside the box and being You.