WASHINGTON, D.C. – In an historic first for the Pentagon, President Obama has chosen to nominate Eric Fanning to lead the Army, a move that would make him the first openly gay civilian secretary of one of the military services.
Fanning, who must still be confirmed by the Senate, has been a specialist on defense and national security issues for more than 25 years in Congress and the Pentagon, reports The Washington Post.
“Eric brings many years of proven experience and exceptional leadership to this new role,” Obama said in a statement. “I look forward to working with Eric to keep our Army the very best in the world.”
The American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation’s largest support organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) military families, praised the news.
“We are thrilled to see Eric Fanning nominated to lead the world’s greatest Army,” said AMPA President Ashley Broadway-Mack. “History continues to be written and equality marches forward with the nomination of an openly gay man to serve in this significantly important role. Fanning’s expertise and knowledge within the defense community together with his sensitivity to issues faced by LGBT service members and their families is why we urge the Senate to move quickly to confirm his appointment.”
