On Oct. 29, in an incredibly disappointing decision, the Missouri Supreme Court affirmed a lower court's ruling and denied survivor benefits to Kelly Glossip, partner of Missouri State Highway Patrol Trooper, Corporal Dennis Engelhard. Dennis died on Christmas Day in 2009 from injuries he sustained after being struck by a vehicle while on duty.
The Missouri Supreme Court failed to recognize Kelly and Dennis' relationship, but it's not too late for the Missouri State Highway Patrol to do so.
Tell the Missouri State Highway Patrol to recognize their relationship and update the online memorial to show that Dennis is survived by his life partner and stepson.
Dennis and Kelly were a committed couple for 15 years and raised Kelly's son together. They were never able to marry due to Missouri's ban on marriage for same-sex couples. In May 2010, Kelly was recognized as Dennis' surviving partner with a medallion at a ceremony in Washington, D.C., commemorating the loss of police officers nationwide.
Even though Dennis and Kelly were life partners, the Missouri State Highway Patrol ignores their relationship on its website, which recognizes those who have given the ultimate sacrifice. Ask Missouri State Highway Patrol Superintendent, Colonel Ronald Replogle, to update Dennis' profile to show that he is survived by his life partner and stepson.
One day gay men and lesbians will be included as full citizens. Until then, please join us in our fight for equality for all Missourians.