Secretary Of The U.S. Army Eric Fanning To Attend San Diego LGBT Pride

Secretary of the U.S. Army Eric Fanning

Not only is Secretary of the Army Eric Fanning now the first openly gay head of a branch of the U.S. military, he will also be the first to attend a major LGBT pride event on July 15/16 in San Diego.

Via press release:

On the heels of his historic confirmation by the U.S. Senate as the 22nd Secretary of the U.S. Army, Eric Fanning will take the stage as keynote speaker at Friday's rally and serve as one of San Diego Pride's Hon. Grand Marshals for the parade on Saturday.

San Diego Pride made history in 2011 with over 200 active duty service members from every branch of the military marching before the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell, and again made history in 2012 when the Pentagon allowed active duty service members to wear their uniforms for the first time in any US Pride.

"From José Sarria, to Harvey Milk, to Eric Fanning, LGBT service members and Department of Defense civilians have been a crucial part of the fabric of our movement and this nation," said Fernando Lopez, San Diego Pride Director of Operations. "San Diego has such a vibrant LGBT service member and veteran community, we know his presence is going to mean the world to so many. It is an incredible honor to host Secretary Fanning at San Diego Pride."

"I am humbled to be the keynote speaker and an honorary Grand Marshal. As our community moves forward, we strive for full inclusion of all Americans who can do the job, and just want an opportunity to serve the Nation they love," said Secretary of the Army Eric Fanning.

The Spirit of Stonewall Rally, will take place at the Pride Festival Mainstage at Marston Point in Balboa Park, Friday, July 15, at 6:00pm. More info at www.sdpride.org/rally

The Pride Parade will kick off at 11:00am, Saturday, July 16 in Hillcrest, and starts at the intersection of Normal St, and University Ave. More info at www.sdpride.org/parade