The United States Marine Corps marked the first day of June, which also launches "Pride Month," with a celebratory image featuring rainbow bullets.
The colorful weaponry resembled a small box of Crayola crayons more than potentially lethal bullets, but perhaps that was part of the USMC's artistic vision.
"Throughout June, the USMC takes #Pride in recognizing and honoring the contributions of our LGBTQ service members," the Marines said in a statement posted on Twitter.
The statement continued: "We remain committed to fostering an environment free from discrimination, and defend the values of treating all equally, with dignity and respect," while touting the hashtags #PrideMonth and #USMC.
The USMC's inclusive messaging had its share of detractors on Twitter, with some viewing the post as pandering to an audience that doesn't necessarily believe in America leading through military strength.
One commenter lamented: "I thought the reason for boot camp was to break down the individual identity so the group could work cohesively as a single unit. This seems antithetical to that."
Another comment read: "Maybe focus on what's actually important to the nation's defense. China and Russia are bolstering up their ranks with masculinity understanding its necessity, while we seem to be celebrating sexual choices and gender changes in our military. This makes me sad."
Another reader asked, "Is this satire?"
Another commenter wondered, with tongue-in-cheek: "Do we shoot only gay bullets now?"
Another reader added, "I've seen it all now. Focus on building warriors and less about social (expletive)."
The USMC won't be the first or last government entity, national media outlet, or corporate business to recognize "Pride Month" on Twitter.
These messages have been well received by the Biden administration.
However, it's fair to wonder how the USMC's messaging might have been different on Wednesday if the Trump administration still ran the White House.
"This month, we honor the resilience of LGBTQI+ people, who are fighting to live authentically and freely," said President Biden during a Tuesday proclamation on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, And Intersex Pride Month.
"We reaffirm our belief that LGBTQI+ rights are human rights. And we recommit to delivering protections, safety, and equality to LGBTQI+ families so that everyone can realize the full promise of America," Biden added.
The State Department also weighed in on "Pride" month, via Twitter:
Tweet #1
June is #Pride Month! For over 50 years, people around the world have come together to celebrate, promote, and fight for the human rights of LGBTQI+ persons. The Department proudly supports LGBTQI+ persons around the world. #Pride2022 🌈
Tweet #2
On June 25, the Department flew the Progress flag for the first time over Washington, D.C. headquarters. @DeputySecState: "The United States is firmly committed to fighting for LGBTQI+ people at home and everywhere." #PrideMonth
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