the Forward Observer T h e N a t i o n a l N e w s l e tt e r o f A m e r i c a n V e t e r a n s f o r E q u a l R i g h t s , I n c . V o l u m e 4 I s s u e 3 a p r i l 2 0 1 0 Operation Golden Eagle GLBVA/AVER Celebrates 20th Anniversary in Washington, D.C.
March on Washington 1993 March on Washington 2000
Meeting of GLBVA Veterans in Washington, D.C. 1990 Senate Subcommittee Hearing 1990
Jim Darby, Don MacIver, Miriam Ben Shalom D.C. arrest 1993 Jim Darby carried away by cops, March on Washington 1993 Contents TheForward Observer is the official quarterly newsletter of From the President's Corner 3 AVER Responds to Defense Department American Veterans for Equal From the Managing Editor 3 DADT Announcement 9 Rights, Inc. 501(c)(3) Operation Golden Eagle 4 Caring for LGBT Troops and Vets 12 P. O. Box 1490 A Brief History of GLBVA/AVER 5 DADT is Antiquated 13 2020 Pennsylvania Ave. NW Repealing “Don't Ask, Don't Tell” 7 Chapter Reports 14 Washington, DC 20006 Staff Sergeant Miriam Ben-Shalom 8 May 11 Lobbying by Vets 8 Forward Observer Committee General Contact [email protected] Chapter Directory Editor-in-Chief California New York AVER President Palm Springs Chapter AVER New York Chapter Managing Editor President - Mel Tips President - Denny Meyer James Darby P.O. Box 5012 P.O. Box 150160 [email protected] Palm Springs, CA 92263-5012 Kew Gardens, NY 11415 760 329 6560 718 849 5665 Editorial Staff Sacramento Valley Veterans Chapter Web site: [email protected] Bill Beaman President - Raymond Allen North Carolina [email protected] Web site: www.sacvalleyveterans.org AVER of North Carolina Chapter James Apedaile San Diego Chapter Founder - Cecilio Orta [email protected] 3812 Dry Brook Road, Unit J President - Ben Gomez Staff Advisers 4076 Oregon St. #2 Charlotte, NC 28269 San Diego, CA 92104 704 900 2905 Chief Julz Carey, Denny Meyer 619 459 1019 Ohio Web site: www.orgsites.com/ca/aversandiego/ NEOAVER Chapter AVER Executive Board Florida President - Marie Bohusch President Danny Ingram Web site: www.neoaver.org AVER - Florida Gold Coast Chapter [email protected] President - Mark LaFontaine Tennessee P.O. Box 11247 AVER West Tennessee Chapter Vice President Julz Carey Fort Lauderdale, FL 33339 President - Tim Smith [email protected] 954 537 3582 Web site: [email protected] Secretary Nick Jackman Web site: www.aver.fgc.us Texas [email protected] Georgia Houston AVER Chapter Treasurer Mark LaFontaine AVER Georgia Chapter President - Barbara Howard [email protected] President - Alejandro (Alex) Lopez 713 973 1986 Past-President James Donovan P.O. Box 2115 AVER-San Antonio Chapter Decatur, GA 30031 President - Robert O. Weeks [email protected] 404 429 1316 9915 Powhatan Drive, #6H Volume 4, Issue 3, Forward Observer. Web site: www.avergeorgia.org San Antonio, TX 78212 Published quarterly by American Hawaii 210 722 0873 Veterans for Equal Rights, Inc., a AVER Hawaii Chapter Web site: www.aversantonio.com 501(c)(3) non-profit org. ©2010 President - Sean Smith Washington 2092 Kuhio Ave., #1705 AVER Puget Sound Chapter AVER. All rights reserved, except Honolulu, HI 96815 President - Nick Jackman where otherwise credited. AVER 808 497 0650 10115 Greenwood Ave N www.aver.us. Web site: www.averhawaii.com national web site is PMB Box 145 The Forward Observer is available for Illinois Seattle, WA 98133 Gay Veterans Chicago Chapter 206 428 1975 download via the AVER national Web President - James C. Darby Web site:www.averpugetsound.org site. AVER is not responsible for the P.O. Box 29317 claims of any sponsor advertisements AVER chapters are being formed in Los Ange- Chicago, IL 60629 which may appear herein. 773 752 0058 les, California; Washington, D. C.; Rehoboth Web site: www.averchicago.org Beach, Delaware; Tampa, Florida; Indianapolis, Change of Address: When notifying New Mexico Indiana; Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota; a change of address, send former as AVER Bataan Chapter St. Louis, Missouri; Rochester, New York; well as new address, including Zip Contact Steve Loomis Columbus and central Ohio; Austin, Texas; and South Texas. code, to: AVER Membership, P.O. 6027 Black Ridge Drive, NE Box 97, Plainville, IL 62365. To up- Albuquerque, NM 87120-2181 For the latest information about forming chap- date either postal or email addresses 505 301 1737 ters, refer to the AVER national Web site: Web site: www.orgsites.com/nm/bataan-glbva/ www.aver.us. Select Chapters under About via email, send both former and new AVER. addresses to: [email protected].
2 | The Forward Observer • April 2010 • www.aver.us From The President’s Corner
I am always open to hearing from our members. My email address is [email protected] and my phone number is 678 596-1311. I do still work for a living, and I may not be able to get back to you right away, but I will do my best to respond to each one of you who takes the time to contact me. On behalf of the National Board I want to thank each of you for your continued support and wish you all a happy spring. The end of discrimination against LGBT service members will not happen by chance. It will happen because each one of us has worked very hard to defeat the prejudice that threatens to undermine our nation’s freedom at its very core: in those who have personally sworn to uphold it. Each one of you has had a part in the coming victory, and our nation owes you a deep gratitude for your continued service in the defense of our nation’s liberty. Respectfully, Danny Ingram, National President American Veterans for Equal Rights aver.us [email protected] 678 596-1311
From The Managing Editor
Greetings Working on the history of GLBVA/AVER (refer to "A Brief History of GLBVA/AVER" on page 5) brought back so many memories and so many faces. But first I have to say that I started with a ten page history, hoping to reduce it to several pages. I didn’t expect it to be six “type-written” pages. And that includes leaving out a great deal of information. I hope that you enjoy reminiscing about all those “happy warriors” aka gay veterans. I apologize for all of those names and photos left out, and will try to include them in future issues. And, yes, I know every one of those veterans in the centerfold, and yes, they are all gay and have all faithfully and honor- ably served their country. Many of them, like me, were drafted, and could have easily avoided serving. But we didn’t. And this country is a better place because of our service. We are all looking forward to the many Pride events that are coming up soon. Please remember to get some photos to help document our existence for future generations. Respectfully, Jim Darby Managing Editor AVER, P.O. Box 29317, Chicago, IL 60629 [email protected] 773-752-0058
The Forward Observer • April 2010 • www.aver.us | 3 Operation Golden McNeill was ordained a priest in the in the Army of Occupation follow- Society of Jesus. ing the Nazi surrender. When Strouss Eagle: American Following the publication of his returned home to the U.S. he took a Veterans For Equal book The Church and the Homosexual, job working for the U.S. Department a landmark work on gay and lesbian of Civil Service only to be fired during Rights Honors WWII spirituality, Dr. McNeill came under the the infamous McCarthy era due to his Vets scrutiny of the Vatican’s Congregation homosexuality. Washington D. C. This June, Amer- for the Doctrine of the Faith, then head- On Saturday evening, June 12th, ican Veterans for Equal Rights (AVER) ed by Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger (now AVER will lead the annual Washing- celebrates 20 years of working for Pope Benedict XVI) who ordered him ton Pride Parade as the event’s official LGBT equality in the U.S. Armed Forc- to remain silent. After refusing a further color guard. World War II dignitaries es with Operation Golden Eagle, a series order from Ratzinger in 1988 to cease will ride in designated vehicles in the of events planned in conjunction with all ministry to LGBT people, Father parade and all LGBT veterans will be Capitol Pride in Washington, D.C., the McNeill was expelled from the Society invited to join the color guard. The city where AVER was born in 1990. of Jesus after 40 years of service. AVER color guard will carry a spe- AVER members from across America Dr. McNeill will be signing books cial vintage silk 48 star World War II will gather in the nation’s capitol June at the Dignity Center located near the era national flag and a World War II 11th–13th to commemorate the found- Eastern Market Metro Station, from Memorial flag in honor of Operation ing of AVER, the oldest nation-wide 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. on Saturday, Golden Eagle. LGBT veterans service organization June 12th. AVER members are encour- On Sunday AVER will staff a in the United States. The focus of the aged to come and meet Dr. McNeill, “recruiting station” at D.C.’s Capitol celebration will be LGBT World War II one of our most distinguished members, Pride Festival to recruit new members veterans, those men and women of the and help support his trip to Washington for the AVER Capitol City Chapter, “greatest generation” who defeated the for Operation Golden Eagle, which he which the national organization hopes forces of tyranny in the largest conflict is attending at his own expense. to build as one of its most prominent the world has ever known and returned Harvard-educated astronomer chapters. Members of AVER from home to the United States to found the Frank Kameny returned from fighting all over the nation will help staff the modern gay rights movement. Nazis in WWII only to be dismissed booth throughout the hours of the The anniversary event has been from his position as an astronomer in Pride Festival. named Operation Golden Eagle in the Army Map Service in 1957 because And to top off Operation Golden honor of the “golden years” of these first of his homosexuality. Dr. Kameny went Eagle, members of AVER will pres- generation LGBT Americans, many on to form the Mattachine Society of ent a Taps ceremony from the main of whom wore on their uniforms the Washington, D.C., one of the earliest stage of Capitol Pride with “all hands famous golden eagle patch (nicknamed and most influential gay rights organiza- present.” All WWII veterans will be the “ruptured duck”) to distinguish their tions of the modern gay movement. invited onto the stage to be recognized status as returning WWII veterans. In 1971, Dr. Kameny ran for for their service. The Taps ceremony A main event of Operation Golden Congress from Washington D.C. as the will remember all LGBT service mem- Eagle will be a wreath-placing ceremony first openly gay candidate for national bers who have given their lives in the at Arlington National Cemetery sched- office. He was also one of the founders defense of our nation’s freedom, espe- uled for 1:35 p.m. on Friday afternoon, of the National Gay and Lesbian Task cially Major Alan G. Rogers, who was June 11th. The wreath-placing party Force (NGLTF) and helped found the the first known gay combat casualty in will include AVER National President Gay Rights National Lobby from which modern U.S. history when he as killed Danny Ingram, and three prominent the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) by an improvised explosive device gay World War II veterans: Dr. John J. evolved. while leading a patrol in Baghdad, McNeill, Dr. Frank Kameny, and Mr. Mr. Jack Strouss of Atlanta, also Iraq, on January 27, 2008. Rogers Jack Strouss. served under General George S. Patton served as an officer in the Washington, Dr. McNeill, who served under in the European Theater of WWII. Mr. D.C. Chapter of American Veterans General George S. Patton, was captured Strouss had his transport ship torpe- for Equal Rights. at the Battle of the Bulge, and impris- doed from beneath him in the English The following are planned events oned in a Nazi POW camp. He received Channel and was rescued by a Free yet to be scheduled: the Purple Heart. French cruiser. He went on to fight in AVER will conduct a wreath- After he returned to the U.S., Dr. the final drive to Germany and served placing ceremony at the grave site
4 | The Forward Observer • April 2010 • www.aver.us of Technical Sergeant Leonard Mat- Operation Golden Eagle a tremendous Staff Sergeant Miriam Ben-Shalom, lovich who was one of the first and experience for LGBT veterans of all ages along with the assistance of four gay most prominent gay service members and from all eras. For more information veterans and one bisexual veteran. to challenge the military’s ban on gay continue to watch for news releases on Those co-founder military veterans service in the 1970s. A recipient of the AVER national website at www.aver. included: Former U. S. Navy Ensign both the Bronze Star and the Purple us. Jim Woodward, President, San Diego Heart, Matlovich’s grave marker bears Most of all, AVER is about honor- Veterans Association; Bill Lake, first of- the famous words WHEN I WAS IN ing service, and we hope to take the ficer, Veterans Council for Equal Rights THE MILITARY THEY GAVE ME A opportunity in June to say thank you and Equality (C.A.R.E.), Los Angeles, MEDAL FOR KILLING TWO MEN to all LGBT veterans for your service California; Ken Huntington (aka Ron AND A DISCHARGE FOR LOVING and your dedication to helping end the Rasmussen, Jr.), President, Texas Gay ONE. Matlovich rests in Washington’s injustice of the ban. Please join us in Veterans Association; former Navy Congressional Cemetery where AVER Washington, D.C., the weekend of June Chief Petty Officer Chuck Schoen, pub- hopes to establish a national LGBT war 11th-13th as we honor our first genera- lic affairs officer representing Veterans memorial in the future. This event is not tion and we celebrate the camaraderie C.A.R.E Redwood Empire, California, yet scheduled. unique to those of us who have served and the predominantly gay, Alexander AVER hopes to sponsor a Saturday- in the armed forces. There is an organi- Hamilton Post 448 of the American morning press event at the World War zation for you as an LGBT veteran, and Legion, San Francisco, California; II Memorial featuring our three distin- it is AVER. Come see what we are about and bisexual U.S. Army veteran Cliff guished VIPs and other LGBT WWII and consider membership in the only Arnesen, President, New England Gay, veterans to speak on the injustice of the LGBT veterans service organization Lesbian and Bisexual Veterans, Boston, “don’t ask, don’t tell” issue and use their recognized by the VA. Massachusetts. GLBVA was officially gravitas to help place a final nail in the —Danny Ingram, National President incorporated in the State of Wisconsin. coffin of the military’s ban on gay ser- Staff Sergeant Miriam Ben-Shalom, vice members. To encourage WWII vet- A Brief History of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was elected the erans to attend the press event, AVER first President. Groundwork was laid is offering free lifetime membership to GLBVA/AVER for the creation of a national constitu- every WWII veteran who participates. GLBVA/AVER will be celebrating tion and by-laws. Miriam traveled the AVER hopes this will be the largest its 20th anniversary in May of this year. country creating new chapters. By 1992 gathering of openly LGBT WWII veter- Thanks to one of the founders, Staff GLBVA had 44 chapters across the ans in U.S. history and one of the most Sergeant Miriam Ben-Shalom, and to country. powerful collective voices ever to target the first editor ofThe Forward Observer, Reading through some of the earlier the injustice of the gay ban. Clifford Krapf, most of the historical issues of The Forward Observer brings records are intact. These historical ar- back memories of the dangerous and What You Can Do to chives are stored in Chicago. All copies troubled times that these early pioneers of The Forward Observer have also been faced. This was the era that we now call Help placed in the Chicago History Museum B.C. (Before Clinton). Gays serving in Here is what you can do to help: and in the Gerber/Hart Library in the military were victims of murders, Sponsor a WWII veteran. In order to Chicago. witch hunts, violence and “suicides.” make Operation Golden Eagle a success In February of 1990, six veterans When President-elect Clinton an- AVER is in need of LGBT World War who were attending the NGLTF Creat- nounced that he was going to lift the II veterans to attend the event. Anyone ing Change Conference in Minneapolis ban and let gays serve openly, the pro- interested in participating in June or met and discussed forming a national verbial poop hit the fan. (Deja vu?) helping sponsor a WWII veteran should veterans organization. All six veterans It is incumbent upon us to remem- contact AVER President Danny In- were officers of their local LGBT veter- ber and to honor all those brave service gram at [email protected]. Help is also ans groups. They agreed to meet later in members who had the courage and needed with logistical support including the year in Washington, D. C. determination to create the first national providing local transportation, creating On Thursday, May 17, 1990, the LBGT veterans organization in this an advance team to help with permits National Gay, Lesbian and Bisexual Vet- country. In this 20th anniversary issue and locations, and raising funds. erans of America (GLBVA) was founded we will simply try to highlight some Come to Washington and par- in Washington, D. C, by the lesbian of the outstanding heroes of the move- ticipate. AVER is hoping to make veteran activist and former U. S. Army ment, bring to light some of the battles
The Forward Observer • April 2010 • www.aver.us | 5 that they fought, and also mention port President-elect Clinton. National 1995 some of the politicians who were the preparations for a second March on The annual convention is held heroes and villains of the day. Washington in 1993 begin. The GL- in West Hollywood, California. Ed Some highlights from the past: BVA National Conference is held in Westrick and the L.A. Chapter host Baltimore, Maryland. A march on a the event. The previous officers were local Marine base is held. Congressman 1990 re-elected except that Jim Darby became Gerry Studds (D-MA), Congressman Local LGBT veterans across the the new Vice President. Two notable Barney Frank (D-MA), Gregg Monsma, country join together to form GLBVA. guests were Herb King, famous (or Keith Meinhold, Tanya Domi, Sam Miriam Ben-Shalom is elected first infamous) for inventing K-Rations Gallegos, Jim Antonevich, Glen Morin, president. Cliff Krapf is the first editor and Sergeant Johnnie Phelps, General John Artoux, Lynn Strawbridge, Iver of The Forward Observer. Six chapters Eisenhower’s jeep driver in Germany. Nielsen, Kirt Grubbs, Jim Holobaugh, are formed. Each year new voices and Sergeant Phelps' story is in Conduct Un- Tracy Thorne, Gene Barfield, Bill Bea- new LGBT veterans appear in the news becoming. Many veterans travel to Wash- man and Adam Gettinger-Brizuela. 27 and the movement. Their names will ington D.C. to meet with Congressional chapters. simply be added at the end of each year. leaders. Veterans also meet with Jeff Levy, Director of White House Na- 1991 1993 tional AIDS Policy; Richard Socarides, Cliff Arnesen, Ron Rasmussen and Deputy Assistant to the President; and Operation Old Chestnut—in Chuck Schoen go to Washington to give Elizabeth Birch, Executive Director of October gay veterans marched 40 miles oral testimony at the U.S. House Sub- HRC. Some veterans attend The Joiner from Fort Meade to the White House to committee on Oversight and Veterans Conference for Minority Veterans. Dane protest military discrimination against Affairs. Two major events in 1993 truly Hays, Ken Osborn, Mack Thomas III, LGBT service members. Congresswo energize the gay veterans movement. Bob Hoy, Tere Frederickson, Dallas man Barbara Boxer (D-CA) holds The first is the second historic March Culvahouse, Ken Warnock, John Stokes, press conference to protest gay related on Washington. More than a million James Apedaile, Luke Martinez, Tom shootings at Fort Irwin, California. The LGBT people descend on the nation’s Swann, Bud Robbins, Zoe Dunning PERSEREC Report and the Critten- capital. Several members of GLBVA are and Cari Bausone. den Report on Gays in the Military arrested protesting the DADT policy. are issued. New voices and veterans in GLBT veterans participated in numer- the fight include Karen Stupski, Dusty 1996 ous events in Washington D.C. Author Pruitt, Mel Dahl, Tammy Baldwin, No elections are held, but confer- Randy Shilts is there to gather material Alan Stephens and Perry Watkins. Perry ence is called for San Antonio. Mem- for his book Conduct Unbecoming. Later later becomes famous for winning his bers then converge on Washington, in the year Seaman Allen Schindler is battle against the military after a 16-year D.C. for the Joiner Conference and to murdered by shipmates in Japan. The struggle, and also for his role in the continue lobbying as many members Navy tries to cover up the incident, filmSis . Hugh Lunde, Bill McGarry, of Congress as possible. Terry Helvey, but political activist Michael Petrelis Michele Parisi and Ed Westrick. Twelve Allen Schindler’s convicted murderer blows the whistle, and escorts Dorothy chapters have been started. is eligible for parole. GLBVA chapters Hadjys, Allen’s mother, to Japan for the from around the country send faxes to investigation. Forty-four chapters. 1992 Fort Leavenworth demanding that he not be released.The parole board calls The Navy begins “witch hunts.” 1994 Mrs. Hadjys asking her to do what she GLBVA responds with Operation In February 1994, GLBVA holds its can to stop the faxes. Their machines are Save a Sailor. Congresswoman Patri- convention in San Antonio, Texas. New overwhelmed. George Buse, Ed Kass- cia Schroeder (D-CO) introduces the officers elected are Nancy Russell, Lloyd ing, Max Woerner, Don MacIver, Dirk Military Freedom Act. Colonel Marga- Haver, Steve Webb and Gene Barfield. Selland, Paul Thomasson, Lee Miller rethe Cammermeyer is removed from LGBT veterans also travel to New York and Jodi Hoenninger the military after 28 years as a military City for the twenty-fifth anniversary nurse. Twenty-eight colleges and univer- of the Stonewall Riots. German Lopez sities bar military recruiters from their 1997 and Cale Lehman from the New York campuses for discrimination against The 1997 Convention is held in chapter lead the march. gays. Dick Cheney becomes Secretary Corpus Christi, Texas, aboard the U.S.S. of Defense. There is a huge push to sup- (continued on page 18) 6 | The Forward Observer • April 2010 • www.aver.us Repealing “Don't Act (MREA) in their respective cham- ing the issue. bers. It was exciting to hear that the Never once did we hear anything Ask, Don't Tell”: End MREA has 191 co‑sponsors of the from Pete about his concerns for his fel- is Near, but Battle House version and 26 co‑sponsors of low Americans, or for any gay American the Senate version. service member. Perhaps the Washing- Continues Since my representatives are already ton political machine has consumed I arrived last Thursday in Washing- co‑sponsors, I was a lobby day team his life so much that he’s now unable to ton, D.C. making my annual pilgrimage captain. As team captain, I escorted my demonstrate any personal concern for to the Servicemembers Legal Defense group through the congressional halls those who defend his rights. Of course, Network Lobby Days. I’ve participated and visited representatives from North our meeting ended with no support in every single SLDN Lobby Days since Carolina, Florida and Ohio. from the congresswoman. But it was the beginning. But somehow, this year Our first scheduled visit was with a fresh reminder that, even within the was different. Florida Republican Congresswoman LGBT community, there is a vast politi- I arrived energized and optimistic Ginny Brown‑Waite. We met with her cal spectrum. because both houses of Congress have chief of staff. I’ll refer to him as Pete. The remaining visits gave us the op- bills that would effectively repeal “don’t Pete was a very colorful young man. portunity to talk with non-committed ask, don’t tell.” I couldn’t help noticing Pete’s body Democrats. I’m pleased to report that When I landed at Dulles Interna- language. He sat across from me with the efforts made by some of my fellow tional, I caught up on all the news of his legs and arms crossed. I sensed some lobbyists gained a few more co‑spon- Lieutenant Dan Choi and his protest ac- hostility. After some short introduc- sors. tions at the foot of the White House. To tions, Pete stated that the congresswom- On a different note, with all the my knowledge, there hasn't been such an is firm on her beliefs and will not visits that were made, one common a form of protest by a veteran or active change her mind on supporting the bill. message was clear to us: “The Con- duty service member since the Viet- Then, the fireworks began. With -ag gressperson is busy with the health care nam War. Needless to say, Lieutenant gression in his voice, Pete shared that he issue.” It is my belief (and hope) that, Choi's actions caught the attention of was gay and a Republican. He believes now that health care reform has been the global LGBT community. I noticed that it is the Democrats’ fault that the passed, Congress and the President can Facebook status updates of pride and law exists and he was tired of the Re- focus on repealing "don’t ask, don’t tell." happiness for Lieutenant Choi’s actions. publicans taking heat for not support- On Saturday, Servicemembers He was hailed as a hero by many who ing the repeal. It was unfortunate that United hosted a DADT strategy forum. did not serve in the military. (I person- the remainder of our conversation was Several veterans and supporters were ally know that.) Those who did serve or focused on political rhetoric surround- present, including nationally recognized were on active duty remained silent or (continued on page9) were concerned by his actions. Specifi- cally they were concerned about what the outcome would be and what mem- bers of Congress would think. Furthermore, there was concern that Lieutenant Choi subjected him- self to disciplinary action according to the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Regardless, Lieutenant Choi gained international attention for the repeal of "don’t ask, don’t tell" and, really, only time will tell. Friday was the annual SLDN Lobby Days event. Being from California, I am fortunate to be represented in Congress by Senators Barbara Boxer and Diane Feinstein and by Representative Susan Davis. All of them have co‑sponsored the Military Readiness Enhancement
The Forward Observer • April 2010 • www.aver.us | 7 expected to be the largest lobbying event on “don’t ask, don’t tell” to date.” “The next thirty days are going to be absolutely critical in the push for repeal of the ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ law this year,” said Alexander Nicholson, a former U.S. Army interrogator dis- charged under ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ and the current executive director of Ser- vicemembers United. “We need every supportive veteran who is able to come to Washington to join us here on May 10th and 11th for this final push, and we are thrilled to have such an unprec- edented coalition of pro-repeal and pro-military organizations joining us in this effort." "This broad coalition coming together to urge Congress to end ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ represents a powerful Staff Sergeant It is with profound and heartfelt voice for repeal this year,” said Jarrod conviction that on the 20th anniver- Chlapowski, the military spokesperson Miriam Ben-Shalom, sary of the organization she founded, I for the Human Rights Campaign. “A Hero of the Military express on the behalf of the officers and wide majority of Americans, including the membership of American Veterans Democrats, Republicans and indepen- Rights Movement for Equal Rights, our sincere and well dents recognize this discriminatory law Miriam Ben-Shalom is one of the deserved gratitude to Miriam Ben- hurts our national security and fails to great heroes of the LGBT military rights Shalom for her dedication and service to live up to our values. The time to end movement. the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and trans- “don’t ask, don’t tell” is now.” Nearly It has been my pleasure to confer gender service members of the United 14,000 Americans have been abruptly with her on a number of occasions, and States military. fired from the U.S. military because of it is my honor to help guide the organi- —Danny Ingram, National President the "don’t ask, don’t tell" law—includ- zation she founded 20 years ago. ing more than 800 mission-critical Miriam was one of the first to May 11 Lobbying specialists. Servicemembers United draw fire in the movement for military and HRC have been jointly engaged in freedom, and she has the scars to prove by Vets Focuses on extensive field and grassroots organiz- it. She’s been beaten back again and Repeal of “Don’t ing work across the country to lay the again, sometimes by her own commu- Ask, Don’t Tell” groundwork for repeal through initia- nity, which is always much more painful tives like the Voices of Honor Tour, and debilitating. But her courage and Washington, D.C. Servicemembers which was organized in key states to perseverance continue to bring her back United and the Human Rights Cam- highlight the costs of "don't ask, don't to the fight for justice and equality. paign announced expanded plans for a tell" and promote the voices of gay and Miriam is a great inspiration to national Veterans Lobby Day to be held straight veterans who support repeal. me and to many other LGBT veter- on May 10-11, 2010 in Washington, Iraq War veteran Representative Patrick ans. Knowing her has made me even D.C., as Congress begins to focus on Murphy (D-PA) and Senator Joe Li- more determined to carry on the the defense authorization bill, which is eberman, (I-CT) are championing this crucial mission of American Veterans the likely vehicle for “don’t ask, don’t legislative repeal effort on Capitol Hill. for Equal Rights. I am pleased to have tell” repeal. The lobby day, which will The number of partner organiza- her continued support as we carry our bring hundreds of gay and lesbian vet- tions continues to grow. Please visit the mission into its third decade and begin erans—including members of AVER— Veterans Lobby Day Web site to find our transition into a veterans service and their straight veteran allies from out how to get involved. organization. around the nation to Capitol Hill, is www.VeteransLobbyDay.org
8 | The Forward Observer • April 2010 • www.aver.us Repealing "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" and to pose for a couple of photos with you who did not serve in the military: (continued from page 7) me. Demonstrate your patriotism and help Pam Spaulding of the popular Pam’s I was there when Ms. Maddow in this fight. To my fellow veteran and House Blend blog. The group discussed met up with MREA House bill sponsor active duty brothers and sisters: Keep the two bills in Congress, the strategies Congressman Patrick Murphy, and felt fighting. We’re here to see this through. of the national organizations that sup- excited to hear her invite the congress- We are so close. Don’t give up hope. port the repeal and creating a common man to appear on her show. And, above all, we are proud of your message for those who support the Speaking of Congressman Murphy, service. repeal. At the forum, it was mentioned I was forrtunate to speak with him after —Ben Gomez, San Diego Chapter that preparations are underway for a his excellent and invigorating speech. I President strong push for DADT lobbying, a rally thanked him for his support and offered and march are set for May 11, 2010 in to help and support him in any way AVER Responds Washington, D. C. that I could. Organizations like HRC and After I introduced Congressman to Changes to SLDN are among the many sponsors Murphy to an active duty Navy friend Enforcement of of the rally and are encouraging their of mine, I was impressed by how the DADT Announced supporters and the LGBT community congressman paid full attention and to participate. listened to every word my friend said. by Defense The way I see it, we’ve passed the Congressman Murphy thanked my Department halfway mark for support of the repeal, friend for his service and gave him a The following press release was but still a lot of work needs to be done business card and invited him to com- by the Senate. issued by the national president of the municate with him any time. American Veterans for Equal Rights on The main focus is the Senate Armed I also noticed that Congressman Services Committee, where seven Friday, March 26, 2010: Murphy had a certain charisma, much In a press conference on Thurs- ranking members are teetering toward like that of a young Jack Kennedy. Who supporting the bill. These Senators are day, March 25th, Secretary of Defense knows, I may have met a future Presi- Robert Gates and Chairman of the Joint from the Midwest and South. I was dent of the United States. surprised to see that Senator Jim Webb Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen As always, I left The District of outlined immediate changes to the has not fully committed to the Senate Columbia invigorated and excited. I bill. He has voiced support for the re- enforcement and investigation of “don’t realize that in order to succeed with ask, don’t tell” violations. Among the peal, so I hope that with influence from the repeal of “don’t ask, don’t tell,” the his constituents and colleagues he will changes are that third party outings entire GLBT community has to speak will require testimony under oath, and make the right decision. Everyone must with one voice. We have to set aside our understand this battle will take a turn statements made to clergy, medical or differences and focus on our priorities. mental health clinicians, public-health for the worse if the Senate bill doesn’t As for me, a veteran, “don’t ask, don’t make it through the committee. officials, lawyers, and security-clearance tell” will always be my issue. The only investigators will be inadmissible. I would encourage everyone to con- reason I say this is because I served our tact all members of the Senate Armed The decision to discharge must now country in silence. I am proud of my be made by a general or flag officer. Services Committee and ask them to service. I know what it is like to have support the bill. Also, take some time to These changes, with legal caveats, are my freedoms compromised. My focus is described as being “fairer and more ap- thank those who already have. to speak for those who continue to serve propriate,” while the Pentagon proceeds The highlight of my trip was going in silence, defending the freedoms we with its research on “how to implement to the annual SLDN dinner at the beau- often take for granted. We must always an end to DADT.” tiful National Building Museum. Close remember that they cannot fight for American Veterans for Equal to 1,000 people were in attendance. their freedoms. It is our responsibility to Rights, the nation’s only veterans service Among the attendees was political com- do that for them. But one thing is clear, organization officially recognized by mentator and DADT repeal supporter, we can’t stop the fight until the Presi- the Department of Veterans Affairs MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow. I was dent signs the repeal. as providing support to gay troops, fortunate to meet her and tell her about So, our work is not finished. Please believes that, while any changes in Senator Sam Nunn’s visit to my ship, write to President Obama and ask policy enforcement that inhibit DADT the USS John F. Kennedy. I appreciated him to take the leadership in getting discharges are welcome, the fact remains that she took the time to listen to me congress to pass this bill. To those of (continued on page 12)
The Forward Observer • April 2010 • www.aver.us | 9 Do you swear to uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States of America?
10 | The Forward Observer • April 2010 • www.aver.us Just a few of the members of GLBVA/AVER who answered the call when their country needed them.
The Forward Observer • April 2010 • www.aver.us | 11 AVER Responds does not damage the morale or effec- the Georgia Department of Veterans (continued from page 9) tiveness of the unit. Removing quali- Services. Recently Theresa suffered a that patriotic American volunteers are fied personnel, which places an added minor stroke and was admitted to the still being discharged and will continue burden on the remaining members of VA Medical Center in Decatur, Geor- to be discharged due to homosexuality the unit team, is what damages morale. gia, where she received “exceptional until the DADT law is fully repealed. Maintaining the integrity of the unit care,” much better than she felt she Danny Ingram, National President and valuing all of its diverse members would have received through Medicare. of AVER said, “America’s security and builds morale and cohesion. This is a Theresa is now mostly recovered, the lives of American soldiers will con- fact well known to the Pentagon.” and is looking forward to her first ap- tinue to be jeopardized by the removal American Veterans for Equal Rights pointment at the VA’s Women’s Well- of highly qualified military personnel is the nationwide veterans service ness Clinic, which has all women doc- with skills crucial in the war against ter- organization which serves the needs tors and nurses. Theresa is on her way ror. So long as discharges continue, the of LGBT veterans, service members to a new life chapter of proactive health national defense of the United States and reservists since 1990. AVER is the care. She is very happy she met Beth suffers from a costly policy that accom- nation’s only VSO officially recognized at an AVER event. AVER was there for plishes nothing.” by the Department of Veterans Affairs her. Happy ending. What these changes significantly providing support to gay military per- Theresa’s story is certainly a simple demonstrate is that the Pentagon has sonnel, veterans, and their families. example of AVER’s potential as a now decided that known gay service —Denny Meyer, Marie Bohusch, and veterans service organization, but it members may in fact continue to serve, Danny Ingram does demonstrate the need for a dedi- simply depending on how their sexual cated watchdog to help LGBT service orientation came to be known. In other Caring for LGBT members and troops get the benefits to words, it seems clear that the ability to which they are entitled in a safe, sup- serve, based on sexual orientation and Troops and Vets: portive, and respectful environment. previously presumed issues of morale AVER’s Future as It appears that the end of the ban and unit cohesion, is no longer consid- a Veterans Service on gay and lesbian service members ered relevant by the Pentagon. If those is near, and AVER has certainly had issues were still relevant, it would not Organization a successful role in that long, costly matter how the military authorities find Theresa Seay joined the U.S. battle. But the end of the ban will not out that a service member is gay. Hence, Women’s Army Corps in 1952 at the mean the end of discrimination against AVER urges an immediate end to the age of 18 and was honorably discharged entire DADT policy to allow service following three years of service. Years members to serve openly and proudly later, Theresa approached the Depart- regardless of their sexual orientation, ment of Veterans Affairs for services but which the Pentagon has now tacitly discovered that there was no record of acknowledged has no relevance. her DD214, so she was denied eligibil- “The Pentagon has in fact been ity. ignoring the DADT policy for years Almost 60 years following her when it suited them,” said Ingram. service, Theresa met retired U.S. Air “When a deployed gay soldier is outed Force Reserve Major Beth Settle, who or becomes known as gay by some is now employed at the Department of other means, the military will wait until Veterans Affairs. Theresa met Beth at that soldier’s unit returns home to the an AVER Georgia social event at the United States before discharging him home of Alejandro Lopez, then vice or her. If the military really thought president and now president of the that having an openly gay soldier in a Georgia AVER Chapter. Beth was able unit damaged morale and cohesion, to get a veterans' service representative they would get the soldier out of the to successfully research Theresa’s records unit as quickly as possible. But they and soon she was signed up for full ser- don’t, because they know the truth, and Theresa Seay joined the WACs in 1952, but it vice with the VA. This included a very wasn't until she became a member of AVER that the truth is that having openly gay or supportive veterans service officer with she gained access to the VA. lesbian service members in the military
12 | The Forward Observer • April 2010 • www.aver.us LGBT service members when it comes Re: “Leave the military alone” (Let- and because it makes good human to promotions, honors, and especially ters, March 18) by Major General L.W. resource sense. Shalikashvili also pointed benefits, where it is a particularly dif- “Svede” Svendsen Jr.: out: “More than three-quarters of the ficult struggle for any veteran to get I have great respect for every [American] public favors the change.” services from an organization where the veteran, and in America everyone is Our military is stretched thin and same people who determine benefits entitled to an opinion. However, Svend- thousands of patriotic men and women, also hold a tight fist on the budget. It will be easy for some veterans to “fall sen retired from the Air Force in 1980 who happen to be gay, are ready, willing through the cracks,” and someone will and much has changed since then. The and able to serve their country. In fact, a need to stand watch for LGBT veterans American people, many other general UCLA study found “more than 40,000 to make sure they do not suffer life- officers, both active and retired, and recruits might join if the ban is lifted.” altering discrimination. politicians who had a role in imple- Gays have served in our military I believe that AVER, as the only menting “don’t ask, don’t tell” believe since the Revolutionary War. Ben LGBT veterans service organization the policy should be repealed. Franklin brought a Prussian, Baron recognized by the VA, can fill that role Svendsen postulates if the policy is Frederich Wilhelm von Steuben, to better than any other group. We should be wary of any LGBT organization that repealed it will result in mediocrity in America to train the Continental Army. suddenly appears on the scene offering the military. What results in mediocrity Colonel Alexander Hamilton said of to take care of veterans as a means of is poor leadership and lowering recruit- Steuben: “Tis unquestionably to his raising money for other purposes. AVER ing standards to accept those with a efforts we are indebted for the introduc- has been around the block and we have criminal history or lower test scores tion of discipline to the Army.” stayed on the front lines throughout the to fill recruiting quotas while reject- In his book, Conduct Unbecoming, long fight. ing highly qualified gay recruits simply Randy Shilts reported Von Steuben was Since AVER is an organization because they are gay. It makes no sense. a gay man who wrote regulations for the composed of veterans, I believe AVER In a commentary for the Wash- "Order and Discipline of the Troops of is the one organization that can faith- fully claim that “we will have your back” ington Post last June 22, Gen. John the United States." It is ironic that to- when it comes to caring for LGBT M. Shalikashvili, chairman of the Joint day there are those who argue that gays veterans. Chiefs of Staff from 1993 to 1997, said: undermine good order and discipline. It will be a challenge. But I believe “Enforcementof the ban was suspended The evidence is to the contrary where that we can meet that challenge as we without problems during the Persian there is proper leadership. have met the challenge of unjust policies Gulf War and there were no reports of General Shalikashvili ended his perpetrated against our people by forces angry departures. A majority of U.S. piece by making the point, “Let the less concerned with defending freedom service members say they know or evidence do the talking.” That seems to than with maintaining prejudice. believe someone in their unit is gay, me to be very good advice. I look forward to that challenge, and I look forward to working with all according to a 2006 Zogby poll, and —Lieutenant Colonel Nancy A. Rus- of you as together we transition AVER most of those who know openly gay sell, U.S. Army, retired. Lieutenant Colo- into an effective veterans service orga- peers report no detriment to morale or nel Russell is a past president of American nization to care for our LGBT patriots cohesion.” Studies “found no correlation Veterans for Equal Rights. who have faithfully done their duty to between a unit’s readiness and whether care for our freedom. known gays serve in it,” Shalikashvili —Danny Ingram, National President added. Definition of Aver This issue is more often than not ar- aver (ə vʉr′) “Don’t Ask, Don’t gued on emotional rather than rational 1. To declare to be true; state positively; affirm Tell” is Antiquated bases. Our national policy is not well 2. Law to state or declare [The following column was written served when we make decisions based formally; assert; allege especially for the San Antonio Express- on the way we feel rather than the facts Etymology: ME averren < OFr of the case. In this instance national averer, to confirm < L ad-, to + News and first appeared on its Web site verus, true. MySanAntonio.com on 03/25/10.] policy is about to change. It will change because people are ready for the change
The Forward Observer • April 2010 • www.aver.us | 13 meetings and general meetings. Most In March several members attended Chapter Reports meetings are held on weekends at Steve the Equality Across America Seminar Loomis’ home. More information is which was held in Chicago. Lieutenant available from Steve at: Dan Choi was the veteran speaker at Albuquerque Steve Loomis, President this event. Bataan Chapter of AVER We are extremely happy to report The New Mexico Bataan Chapter P.O. Box 30625 that both of our Illinois Senators, Sena- of AVER in Albuquerque has come Albuquerque, NM 87190 tor Roland Burris and Senator Dick up with some unique ideas to attract 505 301 1737 Durbin are on board in the U.S. Senate members. Not only do we have potluck [email protected] to end the DADT policy. dinners, but we also have movie nights. —Steve Loomis, President, Bataan We are gearing up for two events in Members are encouraged to bring their Chapter April and May. In April there will be an favorite snacks for the movie, and also Illinois Warriors Summit at the Univer- to bring something substantial for the Chicago Chapter sity of Illinois at Chicago, and AVER potluck dinner. will be one of the more than 100 veter- After the February business meet- ans groups that will be participating. ing members had the opportunity to see Plans are underway to attend the th either Yossi and Jagger, an award win- 20 Anniversary of GLBVA/AVER in ning film about two lovers in the Israeli Washington, D.C., in June. Defense Force, or A Glimpse of Hell, a The Chicago Chapter meets the first 2002 true story about the U.S. Navy Thursday of every month at 7:00 p.m. investigation of the explosion on board Greetings. at the Center on Halsted. the battleship U.S.S. Iowa. So much news about the “don’t ask, Jim Darby, President Several members of the Bataan don’t tell” policy this year has generated Chicago Chapter, AVER chapter traveled to Washington, D.C., a great deal of interest in the Chicago P.O. Box 29317 to participate in the Freedom to Serve Chapter of AVER. Since January, pho- Chicago, IL 60629 Rally on the grounds of the U.S. Capi- tojournalists, Kristin Heinichen, Erica 773 752 0058 tol, followed by lobbying the New Mex- Heather Wright, Erica Demarest and [email protected] ico members of Congress to support the Lisa Rosenthal have all attended our www.averchicago.org Military Readiness Enhancement Act local meetings and photographed most —Jim Darby, President, Chicago which will end the DADT policy. of our members. We are not lacking for Chapter At the April meeting officer elec- publicity. tions were held. There was also a presen- Kristin Heinichen, from Ohio Florida tation of Duty to Honor for Our Country. University has also photographed LGBT A new online presentation will include veterans in Ohio, Indiana and Califor- AVER at the Equality Across America nia, and will probably be visiting other March in Washington and color guard members of AVER. This is part of her presentations for the Veterans Day Pa- Master’s Project. rade and also for the Albuquerque Pride Chicago AVER was also contacted Parade, which will be held on June 12th. by the local VETART Project, and our The AVER color guard will again lead Treasurer, travis, has works on display at The Florida Gold Coast Chapter the Albuquerque Pride Parade. several op-shops. met at the Pride Park Community The online presentation has been In February members participated Center in Wilton Manors on Tuesday, th given at both a local young men’s group, in the Salute to African-American Vet- April 13 for a special program. The and at the Rainbow Vision retirement erans, and in March we participated in AVER color guard participated in a community in Santa Fe. the Salute to Women in Defense of the ceremony presenting a banner to the The Santa Fe Pride Parade will be Nation. Ninninger Veterans State Nursing th held on Sunday, June 26th and AVER is In March Chicago AVER donated Home on March 17 . considering being a part of that parade. $100 to the victims of the Haitian The Florida Gold Coast Chapter The dates for the Bataan chapter earthquake via the organization Ameri- of AVER, and members of the Broward vary, but they alternate between board cares. County Veterans Service Council orga- nized a Veterans entry in Fort Lauder-
14 | The Forward Observer • April 2010 • www.aver.us dale’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade. After the welcoming cheers brought tears to the parade, these organizations were notified eyes of many. “Especially to the eyes of by the events coordinator for the City of those vets from the Viet Nam era who Fort Lauderdale that they had won best were not as warmly welcomed home by non-profit entry in the parade. some anti-war protesters,” noted one In an outreach effort, AVER volun- participant. teers contacted Veterans Service Council AVER and friends extend a special members and organized an entry that note of appreciation to both Cindi included different groups which were Hutchinson and Terry Rynard for their led in the parade by bag piper Mike commitment and dedicated effort Albetta. The contingent included wheel- in helping to coordinate the overall chair bound veterans from the State outreach effort which made this Saint of Florida, residents of the Ninninger Patrick’s Day celebration a memorable Nursing Home, volunteers from the one. Marine and Air Force ROTC groups The Florida Gold Coast Chapter who escorted the Ninninger veterans, meets the second Tuesday of every Texas. Job experiences included factory followed by Mrs. Sandy Steen, former month at 7:00 p.m. at the Community work, food service, retail and corporate Mayor of Wilton Manors, who was Center—Pride Campus, 2040 N. Dixie America. accompanied by two volunteers from Highway, Wilton Manors. Call 954 Alex is looking forward to helping the organization American Moms for 537 3582 or: his fellow veterans and assisting in lead- Soldiers with banners. President Mark LaFontaine ing the fight against the “don’t ask, don’t ” AVER followed these organiza- P.O. Box 11247 tell policy for a better future for our tions with its own color guard, several Fort Lauderdale, FL 33339 GLBT service members. members carrying the service flags from 954 537 3582 Our first quarter meeting was held the different branches of the military, www.aver-fgc.us at Keswick Park Community Building a Korean War combat jeep carrying an —Andy Eddy, Secretary, Florida in Chamblee, Georgia on Saturday, AVER WWII veteran, and two cars Gold Coast Chapter. February 20 at 1:00 p.m. Special guests from the Flaming Auto Group South included Danny Ingram, President of Antique Car Club carrying AVER veter- Georgia Chapter AVER, and Jeff Cleghorn from the ans with POW flags. SLDN Board of Directors. The day was an exceptionally On March 13 AVER held a Meet and Greet and Eat social mixer on Clair- beautiful one, but most exciting were th the crowds that cheered all the veteran mont Road at the 57 Fighter Squadron service groups as they passed by. The Group Restaurant in Atlanta at 1830 hours. Plans are in the works for a vari- ety of upcoming events for the Georgia chapter. “I fight for your freedom and I am AVER Chapter President Alejandro gay.” For more information about the Lopez served in the United States Army Georgia Chapter, please contact: from 1984 to 1989. He was a Personnel President Alex Lopez Administration Specialist (75B). Alex P.O. Box 2115 attended Airborne School and gradu- Decatur, GA 30031 ated as a parachutist. All of his military 404 429 1316 service was stateside which included www.avergeorgia.org Fort Jackson, South Carolina, Fort —Alex Lopez, President, Georgia Benjamin Harris, Indiana, Fort Ben- Chapter ning, Georgia and finally a permanent duty station at Fort Bragg, North Hawaii Chapter Carolina. Before joining the military, Alex The Hawaii Chapter of AVER is grew up as a migrant farm worker in based in Honolulu. It is currently in the
The Forward Observer • April 2010 • www.aver.us | 15 process of major changes as you can see note here, that Kristin’s photography is Navy Chief Petty Officer Stuart O’Brien from its Web page. quite remarkable, and we will be on his third trip to the U.S. to sup- Its mission is to provide support including more in future issues of The port efforts to repeal DADT. Austra- services and promote advocacy on Forward Observer. lian Defense Force Chief O’Brien has behalf of LGBT veterans and service There is still no name for the future volunteered for and served two tours in members in Hawaii. Its membership chapter, but Scott can be contacted at: Iraq. He is an Admiral’s staff writer and is diverse, including veteran and active Scott Spychala, President regularly provides consultation and ad- duty service members, both gay and Indiana Chapter, AVER vocacy to the Australian Defense Force straight, as well as military partners 317 890 8834 regarding improved benefits for LGBT and civilian allies. All have unique [email protected] service members. experiences with discrimination, and all AVERNY has worked with the have a passion for establishing equal- New York producers of Yank! A WWII Love Story, ity within the culture of the military. an off-Broadway, New-York-City- AVER-Hawaii currently meets monthly, 1940’s-style musical play about the love usually at the Center. between two gay soldiers serving in the For more information about the South Pacific during WWII. Hawaii Chapter, contact: AVERNY spoke on a panel, follow- President Sean Smith ing a performance of the play, about the Hawaii Chapter, AVER history of gays in the military and the 2092 Kuhio Avenue #1705 progress of repealing DADT. Honolulu, HI 96815 Monthly meeting dates and times 808 497 0650 vary. For more information, refer to the [email protected] following Web site: www.averhawaii.com The New York Chapter of AVER www.averny.tripod.com —Sean Smith, President, Hawaii has been working to support the efforts —Denny Meyer, President, AVERNY Chapter of Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York to advocate the repeal of "don't North Carolina Indiana ask, don't tell." The recent Senate Armed Services Committee hearings on AVER of NC is still in formation Scott Spychala has been working DADT were at the urging of Senator and is being spearheaded by Cecilio hard to establish the first Indianapolis Gillibrand, and she is a co‑sponsor of Orta, a veteran of the United States Chapter of AVER. Several veterans have the Senate bill to repeal DADT. AV- Army. And what a great job Cecilio is signed on, and Scott is working with ERNY has also met with our U.S. doing. He already has a fantastic Web HRC and several other local groups. representative, Anthony Weiner, from page on line: www.avernc.org. Kristin Heinichen, photojournalist the New York Congressional delegation We are so impressed with the from Ohio University drove to India- to thank him for supporting repeal and amount of work that he has already napolis to interview Scott about his to urge him to continue proactive done. The resources on his Web page work to help repeal DADT. I want to advocacy. include a number of major veterans ser- In late March, vice organizations, nine North Carolina AVERNY had a table military bases and a documents and at the huge GLBT information section for helping veterans Expo at New York to take advantage of all the local services City’s Javits Conven- that are available. tion Center where There is also an extensive section on 20,000 LGBT visitors civic engagement with quarterly service from around the U.S. projects. visit our booth to find We are so proud of how much out about DADT progress he has made in such a short repeal and AVER. time. Our March meet- Cecilio can be contacted at: ing featured a visit by Cecilio Orta Scott Spychala openly gay Australian 6701 Fishers Farm Lane
16 | The Forward Observer • April 2010 • www.aver.us Unit D1, commitment significantly until further for?” To date, a total of $14.34 has Charlotte, NC 28277 notice, unfortunately due to serious been raised for AVER via this service. [email protected] family health issues. Anyone wishing 704 900 2905 to join the committee should be very Palm Springs www.avernc.org familiar with HTML scripting. Famil- iarity with graphic design, MySQL data- The Palm Springs Chapter continues Ohio base administration, and PHP script- rolling along under the great leadership ing and modification will help reduce of Mel Tips who founded the chapter After many months of dormancy, ramp-up time. 18 years ago. NEOAVER is finally getting back into The AVER Facebook page was Monthly meetings are held at the gear. During April, we were invited established on June 15, 2009. It just Golden Rainbow Center on Tahquitz to speak at a Cleveland State GLASA hit the milestone of 200 fans on Janu- Canyon Way on the second Friday of meeting and at a NEOHA meeting. ary 28, 2010. As of April 28, 2010, we every month at 1:00 in the afternoon. NEOHA is the North East Ohio Alli- have 354 fans—a 77% increase in only Unlike most other chapters, the Palm ance for the LGBT pride and gay/les- three months. If you have a Facebook Springs veterans have a potluck with the bian and straight alliance student groups account, please become a fan of AVER main course put together by Mel. Mel, of Cleveland State University, Cuyahoga by clicking the Like button, and share incidentally, was a cook in the Navy for Community College, Baldwin Wallace a link to our page with all of your own 20 years so he can make all those delica- College, Oberlin College, Case Western Facebook friends. We currently use cies like liver and onions and chipped Reserve University, John Carroll Univer- the Facebook page for all outside news beef on toast. sity, and Youngstown State University. links, and for brief AVER-news bits. The veterans are great supporters of During the NEOHA meeting, we were For press releases and longer news items, the Desert AIDS Project and most are able to get the new AVER postcards please see the main AVER web site at planning to attend the Sunshine Ladies out to those groups that attended, and http://www.aver.us. (Les Dames du Soleil) event May 9th students agreed to make sure they are The AVER Cafepress store has to show their support. visibly available in both the pride/GSA been updated with items specifically for The Palm Springs Chapter, like and veterans service offices on their the AVER 20th Anniversary. New items most other chapters, is getting ready respective campuses. include t-shirts, mugs, BBQ aprons, and for both the Memorial Day Parade and Many of our older veterans more. The anniversary items are priced the Pride Parade. They always have a have expressed concerns about already slightly higher than our normal items. great turnout, and usually receive wild being stretched too thinly between Proceeds will help pay for transportation applause when they march down Palm many LGBT organizations, and so of our WWII VIPs and fees related to Canyon Drive. I can attest to it because we are currently placing our focus on Operation Golden Eagle, AVER’s 20th the Chicago veterans participated twice LGBT veterans who may be using Anniversary celebration and wreath in their parade. Chapter 30 or 31 VA education ben- laying events which will coincide with Mel Tips efits, reservists, and guardsmen, as well Capital Pride 2010 in Washington, P.O. Box 5012 as our “service age” straight allies who D.C. Palm springs, CA 92263-5012 are not yet spread so thinly. Our activi- AVER has an affiliation with 760 329 6560 ties are still fairly informal right now, GoodSearch. GoodSearch is driven by [email protected] but we plan to have regularly scheduled the Yahoo! search engine, and makes a monthly meetings back on the calendar donation to AVER for every valid Puget Sound Chapter by September. NEOAVER has estab- search. Via GoodShop, a small percent- lished a Facebook Page to help facilitate age of every purchase is automatically communication and activity within the donated to AVER. A custom Good- region. Search/GoodShop toolbar can be Web Report downloaded for Internet Explorer and The AVER IT and Web Development Firefox users. To use either service, click The Puget Sound Chapter color Committee is still in need of skilled as- on the link on the AVER national web guard is one of the sharpest groups in sistance. James Apedaile has to tempo- site, or go directly to http://www. the country. Photos from last year’s rarily reduce his time commitment to goodsearch.com and enter AVER into Pride Parade are up on their Web site. tend to a work-related relocation. Marie the organization form box below the Marching down the parade route in Bohusch also has to reduce her time question “Who do you GoodSearch Seattle has to be one of the most (continued on page 20) The Forward Observer • April 2010 • www.aver.us | 17 History Leonard Matlovich. The Palm Springs received a direct invitation. Mark Wolf’s (continued from page 6) Letter is sent to the President and all play, Another American: Asking and Tell- Lexington. President Nancy Russell members of Congress. The GLBVA ing opens in Washington, D.C. Robert steps down as President and becomes contingent to Washington D.C. for The Harris, Jeff Cleghorn, Mack Fisher, vice president. She is honored for five Joiner Conference is the largest ever, David St. Amour, Andy Eddy, Denny years of building GLBVA, getting the outnumbering all the other minority Meyer, Steve Mueller, Charlie Sharples 501(c) 3 status, and testifying before veterans groups. Frank Gaxiola, Mary and Durell Bosworth. Congress. Other new officers elected are Schmeltzer, Jean Albright, Wes Giles, Jim Darby, Mel Tips and Jim Donovan. Bridget Wilson, Vernon Copy Berg, 2002 The featured speaker at the convention Archie Wilson, and Daryl James. is Captain Warren Dinges, who spent At the 2002 Convention in San 5 months in Fort Leavenworth prison 2000 Diego, delegates vote to change the for being gay. The new Board issues The name of GLBVA to American Veterans Lexington Letter. Copies are sent to the Annual Conference is held in Las for Equal Rights (AVER). Mrs. Dorothy President, the Vice-president, the Secre- Vegas. The Las Vegas Letter is mailed Hadjys-Holman is the featured speaker. tary of Defense, the Director of Veterans again to the President and all mem- In San Diego, the Military Ball is Affairs, and all 538 members of Con- bers of Congress. Members travel to introduced as part of the Convention. gress. A letter was also sent to Secretary Washington, D.C. to participate in the In honor of Veterans Day, SLDN, HRC of Defense William Cohen asking for Millennium March on Washington. and AVER join together to recognize a meeting with the officers of GLBVA. The highlight of GLBVA participation GLBT veterans through the Document- The meeting is granted with Asstistant is GLBVA President Edward Clay- ing Courage: Veterans Speak Out proj- Secretary of Defense Frederick Pang. ton speaking on stage, flanked by gay ect. Paula Neira, Bob Weeks, Dan Pugh, On May 5, 1997 Terry Tobias, Mel veterans. On Veterans Day 2000, the James Dillon Merrill, Lee Morales, Ed Tips, Cliff Arnesen, Edward Clayton Phoenix Chapter dedicates the first Graves, Bob Lehman, Ray Post, Har- and Jim Darby walk in the front door Monument to GLBVA Veterans. Steve vey Stoler, Brenda Silva, Michael Todd of the Pentagon. A number of issues May, David Digel, Brenda Vosbein, Kilmer, Todd Shinkle, Tim Higgins and are covered with ending the DADT Marvin Liebman, JoAnn Ariano and Bruce Inman policy as the primary goal. The filmAny Rusty Pounds. Mother’s Son: The Dorothy Hadjys’s Story, 2003 is produced. 2001 The National Convention was held Denver hosts the Convention in in San Antonio. Officers elected were 1998 2001. Dr. Aaron Belkin, from the Cen- Nancy Russell, Alan Rogue, Ben Gomez The Convention is held in Denver. ter for the Study of Sexual Minorities in and Hank Thomas. Private First Class Captain Michele Benecke from SLDN, the Military is the Convention speaker. Barry Winchell is murdered in bed and Colonel Edward Modesto are the Newly elected officers include Jim in Fort Campbell, Kentucky. Barry’s featured speakers. The Denver Declara- Donovan, Nancy Russell, Mel Tips and parents, Patricia and Wally Kutteles are tion is sent out to the President and all Jim Darby. The Denver Declaration is the Convention speakers. The San Anto- members of Congress. Officers travel issued as in the past. In May, local AM- nio Proclamation is mailed. In June, a to Washington, D.C. to meet with the VETS Post 66 of Palm Springs, Califor- number of AVER members take part in leaders of HRC, and NGLTF, and to nia dedicate a monument in honor of the SLDN Lobby Days in Washington, attend the Joiner Conference. They gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender D.C. Lieutenant Colonel Steve Loomis, lobby anyone they can. Angie Colella, veterans in Cathedral City, California. President of the Albuquerque Chapter, Dave Schneider, Jack Harris, David Local members of GLBVA cooperate appeared on 60 Minutes. Steve had been Buck, Mark Repass and Wally Straughn. in this endeavor. Another important discharged just weeks before his retire- development this year is the Invitation ment. 1999 to GLBVA from the Department of the Army to participate in a wreath-laying 2004 The National Convention was held ceremony in Arlington Cemetery at the In 2004 it is decided to hold the in Palm Springs, California. Featured Tomb of the Unknowns on Memorial Annual Convention in Washington speaker is Colonel Cliff Anchor. Be- Day. GLBVA had done wreath-laying D.C. in conjunction with SLDN’s An- sides being a rabid activist he is also the ceremonies for years, but had never lover of both Tom Dooley and Sergeant nual Lobby Days. A midyear conference
18 | The Forward Observer • April 2010 • www.aver.us of officers is held in Chicago, Illinois AVER’s new Web site. October. There are a number of LGBT on March 20. A charge of conduct veterans groups participating. The unbecoming is lodged against Presi- 2006 fifteenth National Convention is held in dent Nancy Russell based upon alleged Fort Lauderdale, Florida. New officers The Chicago Chapter set up a discourteous email exchanges between are Danny Ingram, Julz Carey, Nick reception and a welcoming table for President Russell and Craig Musser, a Jackman and Mark LaFontaine. national and international gay veterans member of the St. Louis chapter. An attending Gay Games VI held in Chi- independent committee is chosen to cago. Congressman Gary Studds, a great 2010 review the case, and two of the three friend and supporter of LGBT veterans In the first three months of 2010 members of the committee feel that the passed on. Ed Wosylus, travis and Ed there are more than 200 newspaper charge does not merit any action. Six Zasadil. articles covering DADT. of the nine board members ignore the Dozens of groups are putting the results of the independent committee pressure on the Obama administra- and vote to remove President Russell. 2007 tion to keep its promise to end the A number of members and officers of The National Convention is held in DADT policy. Under the leadership of GLBVA are outraged, and simply quit. Cleveland by the NEOAVER Chapter Congressman Patrick Murphy (D-PA), Jim Darby, editor of The Forward Ob- and called Lift the Ban V. Dr. Frank MREA support grows to 191. Secretary server, reports the story, including eight Kameny is the major speaker. Gen- of Defense Gates and Admiral Mul- pages of photographs showing all of the eral Shalikashvili and former Secretary len issue new rules on gay ban. AVER accomplishments of Ms. Russell. Jim of Defense Cohen call for an end to President Danny Ingram faxes a press Darby is removed as the editor of The DADT. New officers elected are Jim release emphasizing AVER’s position on Forward Observer. Alan Rogue, the new Donovan, Ray Allen, Marie Bohusch the DADT policy. president, also assumes the role of editor and Mark LaFontaine. The Chicago issuing a revised edition of The Forward Chapter of AVER is inducted into the 2 Observer with all the photos removed. city’s Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame. It may be hard to believe, but we The Convention is nonetheless success- Congressman Marty Meehan retires and tried to make this a brief history of ful with a good number of top brass and Congresswoman Elaine Tauscher (D- GLBVA/AVER. There are longer ver- celebrities attending, including David CA) assumes the lead on MREA with sions with more information on both Mixner, Urvashi Vaid, Rear Admiral 144 sponsors. Marie Bohusch becomes the national Web page and on Denny Steinman, Brigadier General Virgil Editor of The Forward Observer. Meyer’s Gay Military Signal. Since the Richard and Brigadier General Keith Baltimore Conference in 1992, film, Kerr. 2008 videotapes and photographs have been More than 100 retired generals taken at all meetings, conferences and 2005 and admirals call for an end to DADT. conventions of GLBVA/AVER and are The 2005 Convention held in President-elect Obama says that he will presently stored in Chicago. The history West Hollywood, California, is named lift the ban. Alan Berube passes on. of LGBT service members and veterans Operation: Lift the Ban. Officers elected Congressman Patrick Murphy (D-PA) service to this country is an important are Alan Rogue, David Guy-Gainer, assumes the leadership of MREA. Ann part of America’s history. We thank all Ben Gomez and Laura Ballard. Some Bidwell, Marquell Smith, Bill Mullins those brave Americans who served and convention highlights include meet- and Jean Rogers. continue to serve their country. ing the authors of works written by or —Jim Darby and Patrick Bova, about LGBT veterans, a presentation 2009 AVER archivists. about the Library of Congress Veterans Newly elected President Barack History Project, a showing of Sis: the Obama speaks about ending DADT. Perry Watkins Story, a memorial service Former President Nancy Russell is at the West Hollywood Veterans Memo- exonerated of charges against her, and rial, and a Fourth of July extravaganza returns to the AVER Board. Jim Darby at the Hollywood Bowl. Congressman resumes the position of editor of The Marty Meehan (D-MA) introduced Forward Observer. The Fourth Na- the Military Readiness Enhancement tional March on Washington is held in Act (MREA). Marie Bohusch launched
The Forward Observer • April 2010 • www.aver.us | 19 Puget Sound www.averpugetsound.org Parade, which is one of the largest in the (continued from page 17) country. thrilling experiences imaginable. San Antonio Chapter President Ben Gomez flew to Wash- Congratulations to two of their ington, D.C. in March to participate in members. In October, Julz Carey, Past The San Antonio Chapter meets SLDN’s Lobby Days. At their dinner, President of the Puget Sound Chapter the 2nd Thursday of every month at Ben had the opportunity to meet a was elected as the National Vice-Presi- Fuddrucker’s Restaurant (Colonnade number of celebrities, including Rachel dent of AVER, and Nick Jackman, cur- Shopping Center) at 9845 IH-10 W. at Maddow, Major Mike Almy, Con- rent President of the chapter was elected Warzbach Rd. Social hour at 5:30 p.m. gressman Patrick Murphy (D-PA) and as the National Secretary of AVER. One and general meeting at 6:00 p.m. Lieutenant Colonel Victor Fehrenbach. of Nick’s duties is to run a monthly AVER San Antonio Ben’s article is included in this issue. fuze. Yes, a fuze. It’s a new word for me. Robert O. Weeks, President The San Diego chapter has regular In the old days it was called a teleconfer- 9915 Powhatan Drive, #6-H meetings on the 2nd Wednesday of every ence. San Antonio, TX 78230-2228 month. See the web page for further Members usually meet every other 210 722 0873 info. month on the 3rd Friday at 6:00 p.m. at www.sanantonio.com AVER San Diego the Jim Wiley Community Center, 98 Ben Gomez, President 8th Ave, NW. San Diego Chapter 4072 Oregon St, Unit 2 Contact Nick Jackman San Diego, CA 92104 10115 Greenwood, Ave. N The San Diego Chapter of AVER 619 459 1019 PMB 145 participates in numerous events and San Diego Chapter Web Site Seattle, WA 98133 parades throughout the year, including 206 428 1975 the County of San Diego Veterans Day
Emblem designed and created by Marie Bohusch