Gay, Lesbian & Bisexual Veterans of America, Inc.
Members from across the country converged on Corpus Christi, Texas for
the biennial convention of the GAY, LESBIAN & BISEXUAL VETERANS OF
AMERICA (GLBVA) over the Presidents Day weekend. And for the first time in
history a gay, lesbian and bisexual veterans service organization used the
facilities aboard a U.S. Naval vessel, the USS Lexington which is now
anchored in Corpus Christi Bay, 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.
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 organizations
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.
Ms. Russell, who attained the rank of Lieutenant Colonel during her 20
years in the U.S. Army, spoke to the group after receiving the award. She
thanked them for the special honor and in encouraging them to continue the
struggle for the right to serve said, "One of these days, and its not
too far off, we are going to see our efforts pay off and I think that
justice is eventually going to be done." She encouraged the group to
work on and build a better and stronger organization.
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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