Gay, Lesbian & Bisexual Veterans of America, Inc.
Commissioned in 1943, the USS Lexington (CV-16) served longer and set
more records than any aircraft carrier in the history of the United States
Navy. During World War II, she saw action from Tarawa to Tokyo and earned
the nickname "Blue Ghost" from Tokyo Rose after repeatedly
defying reports that she had been sunk. Now, 54 years later, the USS
Lexington again wrote her name into the history books on President's Day
weekend as she hosted the biennial convention of the GAY, LESBIAN &
BISEXUAL VETERANS OF AMERICA (GLBVA).
GLBVA members from across the country converged on Corpus Christi, Texas
for a weekend of networking, educational seminars, speeches, planning
sessions and the election of national officers. And for the first time in
history a gay, lesbian and bisexual veterans service organization used the
facilities aboard a U.S. Naval vessel for their plenary session.
The Officers Ward Room aboard the World War II aircraft carrier was decked
out in the finest of military tradition with the American flag, the
rainbow flag, several military banners and the flags of all branches of
the U.S. Armed Forces. After arriving for the Sunday morning plenary
session, some convention attendees toured the aircraft carrier while
others swapped "war" stories and spoke of their dedication to
continuing the fight for the right of gays, lesbians and bisexuals to
serve openly in the military. Later in the day members were served a meal
from a traditional "chow-line", listened to speeches from the
organization's leaders and then began the nominating process which would
culminate in the election of the officers who will govern the organization
for the next two years.
During the session a special award was presented to outgoing President
Nancy Russell honoring her for all her hard work over the past four years
in building the organization and establishing a viable presence on the
national political scene. Under her administration the organization saw a
significant increase in membership, obtained its 501(c)3 status, testified
before numerous committees during the 1993 LIFT THE BAN campaign and
established a solid financial footing which will ensure the organization's
long-term survival. A plaque was presented as a small token of the groups
appreciation and a standing ovation demonstrated the respect and
admiration the members have for Ms. Russell and her dedication to their
cause.
GLBVA, Inc. is the only national non-profit organization
for gay, lesbian and bisexual active duty, reserve and veteran members of
the United States Armed Forces, their families, friends and supporters.
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