Darren Manzella
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
 |
This article or section needs copy editing for grammar, style, cohesion, tone or spelling. You can assist by editing it now. A how-to guide is available. (February 2008) |
| Darren Manzella | |
 |
|
| Nationality | American |
|---|---|
| Occupation | Medical Liaison, US Army |
| Known for | Openly gay in the US Army despite DADT policy |
Darren Manzella is an American Army Sergeant, Army medic and gay activist from Portland, New York,[1][2] who has served in Iraq and Kuwait and is stationed out of Fort Hood, Texas.[3]
[edit] Overview
Manzella came out to his commander after rumors of his sexuality surfaced[1] in the form of threats to "turn the flame down".[4] He had at that point told his unit he was gay and introduced them to his boyfriend A.J.[4] After there were no consequences due to no proof of him being gay in the impending investigation. That investigation included a video which Manzella himself provided which displayed passionate kissing between he and his boyfriend.[4] The investigation however decided he should return to work and he was told, "You're not gay"[4] and that "proof of homosexuality"[3] had not been found. He came out on American news program 60 Minutes.[1][5] He did this in opposition to the Don't ask, don't tell policy, and to build momentum for its removal.[1] He supports gays and lesbians to be able to join and serve in the military openly.[1] He is currently on "block leave" and it is unclear if he will be disciplined for his coming out on national television.[1] He grew up on his parent's grape farm in Portland, New York, where he attended the chautauqua Brocton High School.[1] He has become the first openly gay service member on active duty to speak to the press from a war zone.[2] He says now that due to the 60 Minutes interview he thinks he will likely be discharged now.[3] He is working with the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN), a gay military organization and lobby group.[3]
[edit] Notes
- ^ a b c d e f g Military takes no action against gay medic from Chautauqua County, The Buffalo News, by Lindsey McPherson, January 4, 2008, retrieved January 4, 2008
- ^ a b 60 Minutes with Darren Manzella, by Steve Ralls, December 13, 2007, retrieved February 4, 2008]
- ^ a b c d Soldier: Policy on Gays May Be Shifting, By Suzanna Gamoa, Associated Press, January 8, 2008, retrieved February 4, 2008
- ^ a b c d Military Soft On Don't Ask, Don't Tell?, 60 Minutes, December 16, 2007, retrieved February 4, 2008
- ^ In and Out: Despite a national profile as an openly gay soldier, Uncle Sam still wants Sgt. Darren Manzella, Metro Weekly, by Will O'Bryan, March 6, 2008, retrieved March 13, 2008
