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Darren’s Day in Washington

Darren Manzella is used to early mornings. As an Army medic, he's had a few early wake-up calls. So he was more alert than I was when his day in Washington kicked off, at 7:45am this morning, as we prepared for his first public appearance since 60 Minutes. I met Darren at his hotel, and then brought him to the SLDN offices before heading over to the National Press Club for his first appearance before reporters. What all of us at SLDN learned, when he got before the cameras this morning, is that Darren is a natural: passionate, well-spoken and ready for his close-up. As reporters from CNN, the Associated Press and the Washington Blade (among others) listened intently, Darren recounted his experience coming out to his command and his fellow troops ... and the remarkable response from his superiors after 60 Minutes aired. As Darren first told USA Today, and elaborated on this morning at the Press Club, his command has neither discharged him after learning he is gay, nor told him not to talk publicly - as he did today - about his positive experience serving as an openly gay soldier. "I'm looking forward to returning to work at Fort Hood when my leave is over," he told the crowd at the Press Club, "I can't wait to see my buddies in my unit and get back to doing my job." And that's why Manzella is the type of soldier the Army should be anxious to retain. This afternoon, Manzella is continuing to speak with reporters here at the SLDN offices, and has just wrapped up a photo shoot for SLDN's national ad campaign. Then, his D.C. visit continues tomorrow with our evening reception at the Army-Navy Club, where he'll be joined by his mom. On December 16, Sergeant Manzella fired his first shot against "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," and this week in Washington, he's showing no signs of slowing down. And because of his bravery and courage, we are closer than ever to lifting the ban. (You can read coverage from Darren's visit online at The Blade and Wonkette.) - Steve Ralls

Labels: Darren Manzella, in the news, sldn clients, SLDN on 60 Minutes

01-08-08