WASHINGTON, DC  --  Darren Manzella, the openly gay and strikingly handsome army Sergeant recently featured on 60 Minutes, will make his first public appearance for the Servicemen's Legal Defense Network (SLDN) on January 9 at the Army-Navy Club in Washington D.C.

Manzella, whose story was featured on the recent 60 Minutes episode covering "Don't Ask, Don't Tell", arrived back home with his unit from a long tour on December 20. He told SLDN that he had received an overwhelmingly positive response after he appeared on the show - both inside and out of the armed forces - who had contacted him to offer support and congratulations.

Now you can meet the courageous soldier. Here is the press release from SLDN

"SLDN invites our D.C. supporters to join us, from 6-8pm, at the Army-Navy Club (at 901 17th Street, N.W.), to meet Sergeant Manzella, learn more about his story and become involved in SLDN's work to repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell."

"The event, which is free and open to the public, will also feature Darren's mom, Nancy Manzella, who is traveling to Washington to support Darren as he speaks out about his experience serving as an openly gay soldier.

"Make plans to join us on Wednesday for an unforgettable evening with Sergeant Manzella. For more information on the Army-Navy Club, including directions, click here. And to read more about Sergeant Manzella, visit SLDN online."

P.S. Watch the 60 Minutes Story with Darren Manzella here.

Last update: 01-04-2008 12:33

Posted by Ron, on 01-05-2008 15:25, 1. SPEAKING OUT YOU HAVE MORE PEOPLE BEHIND YOU THAN YOU  EVER WOULD THINK. WE APPLAUD YOU   » Report this comment to administrator Posted by Danny, on 01-06-2008 00:11, 2. I agree People like him makes me proud of being a gay American   » Report this comment to administrator Posted by xtiaan, on 01-11-2008 12:23, 3. go sgt proud to be american?! thats laughable  it just goes to show even gays can be stupid enough to get fleeced by the government and go kill people    that doesnt make me feel proud at all   » Report this comment to administrator