Senate Committee Approves First Openly Gay Military Leader

Last Thursday, Eric Fanning was confirmed as the nominee for the Army Secretary by the Senate Armed Services Committee. Fanning was nominated by the White House for the position back in September. Fanning is currently the highest ranking openly gay member of the Department of Defense. While some Republican lawmakers like Pat Roberts are said to block the nomination over plans to close Guantanamo Bay, Fanning certainly has President Obama’s support. “Eric brings many years of proven experience and exceptional leadership to this new role,” Obama said. “I look forward to working with Eric to keep our Army the very best in the world. I am grateful for his commitment to our men and women in uniform, and I am confident he will help lead America’s Soldiers with distinction.”