(AP) SAN DIEGO - Some of the loudest cheers at San Diego's gay pride parade were for active-duty troops marching in military dress.

Saturday's celebration marks the first time U.S. service members are participating in a gay pride event while decked out in full uniform. Dozens of soldiers, sailors, and Marines marched alongside an old Army truck festooned with a "Freedom to Serve" banner and a rainbow flag. They were joined by dozens more military personnel marching in civilian clothes.

Spectators waved signs reading, "Thank you for your service."