Do Ask, Do Tell: The Linda Campbell Story
Directed by Birdy Wei-Ting Hung
Set against the backdrop of the pivotal repeal of the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, the film chronicles the evocative journey of Lt. Col. Linda Campbell, an Air Force veteran who grappled with hiding her true self during her service tenure. While the national policy shift towards LGBTQ+ rights marks a progressive era, Linda's personal story serves as a powerful testament to the individual battles fought in the shadows of such policies. Subjected to suspicion, prejudice, and threats from her comrades due to her perceived homosexuality, Linda's resilience and unyielding spirit remain undeterred. Her unwavering love and commitment to her partner, Nancy Lynchild, culminate in a poignant milestone: their eternal rest together in Willamette National Cemetery, symbolizing the culmination of a personal and societal journey towards acceptance. Intertwined with this narrative is the heartfelt account of Linda's brother, Bob Campbell, who delves into their family's conservative roots, Linda's tumultuous coming out, and the eventual familial reconciliation that showcases the transformative power of love and understanding. The film is a touching exploration of the intersections between national policy changes, personal identities, and the unbreakable bonds of family and love.
-
Do Ask, Do Tell: The Linda Campbell Story
Directed by Birdy Wei-Ting Hung
Set against the backdrop of the pivotal repeal of the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, the film chronicles the evocative journey of Lt. Col. Linda Campbell, an Air Force veteran who grappled with hiding her true self during her service tenure. While the national po...
-
Cemetery Profile: Willamette National Cemetery
Fields of Honor: Willamette National Cemetery stands as a beacon of respect and remembrance, expanding its reach to serve Oregon's veterans and their families with unwavering dedication and care
-
Field Notes: Do Ask, Do Tell - Childhood with Linda
From "Do Ask, Do Tell: The Linda Campbell Story", Brad Waldruff reflects on his mother's courageous fight to have her partner buried alongside her in a national cemetery, a landmark battle for LGBTQ+ rights.
-
Field Note: Do Ask, Do Tell - Linda was Human
From "Do Ask, Do Tell: The Linda Campbell Story", Brad Waldruff reflects on his mother’s life, dispelling the myth of an idyllic love story and revealing a deeper, more complex journey that shaped her fight for equality.
-
Field Notes: Do Ask, Do Tell - Linda's Final Speech
From "Do Ask, Do Tell: The Linda Campbell Story", Charlie Burr reflects on the historic moment Linda and Nancy became the first same-sex couple approved for burial in a national cemetery, a powerful symbol of the country's evolving stance on LGBTQ+ rights, which invigorated her fight for change.
-
Field Notes: Do Ask, Do Tell - Together Forever
From "Do Ask, Do Tell: The Linda Campbell Story," Charlie Burr reflects on the powerful message of "Together Forever" that honored Linda and Nancy's love, capturing the warmth and joy of their historic fight for burial rights as a same-sex couple.
-
Field Notes: Do Ask, Do Tell - Sandhill Crane
From "Do Ask, Do Tell: The Linda Campbell Story," Charlie Burr explains how the sandhill crane, chosen as a symbol engraved on Linda and Nancy's headstones, embodies the joy and harmony they shared, while reflecting Linda’s journey through life, moving gracefully between earth, sky, and water.
