Dancing in Dahlgren Hall
(photo courtesy Lucky Bag)
2012 was not the first year for same-sex couples to attend the Naval Academy Ring Dance, but those who attended in the years past, before the repeal of the law known as “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” only did so “flying under the radar.”
At least seven second class midshipmen amongst those who already identity as gay or lesbian in the class of 2013 attended this year’s event in Dahlgren Hall. They were joined by members of the USNA Class of ’63, their “link in the chain.”
11th Company on a Yard walkabout
before the Naval Academy Ring Dance
Take a look at a typical company pre-dance photograph to the right. What is so delightful to behold in this the otherwise typical company photo is that one couple is really no different than the others, unimaginable acceptance a generation ago.
There is more to learn about the evening. USNA Out members, please log in to read a first hand account of this wonderful evening shared by one of the members from the class of 2013 who attended the dance with his civilian boyfriend. As one of the same sex couples to openly attend their Ring Dance with their “link in the chain” Class of ’63, they are fulfill the USNA Out mission of “changing lives and minds of alumni and midshipmen.”
Dancing in Dahlgren Hall
(photo courtesy Lucky Bag)
2012 was not the first year for same-sex couples to attend the Naval Academy Ring Dance, but those who attended in the years past, before the repeal of the law known as “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” only did so “flying under the radar.”
At least seven second class midshipmen amongst those who already identity as gay or lesbian in the class of 2013 attended this year’s event in Dahlgren Hall. They were joined by members of the USNA Class of ’63, their “link in the chain.”
11th Company on a Yard walkabout
before the Naval Academy Ring Dance
Take a look at a typical company pre-dance photograph to the right. What is so delightful to behold in this the otherwise typical company photo is that one couple is really no different than the others, unimaginable acceptance a generation ago.
There is more to learn about the evening. USNA Out members, please log in to read a first hand account of this wonderful evening shared by one of the members from the class of 2013 who attended the dance with his civilian boyfriend. As one of the same sex couples to openly attend their Ring Dance with their “link in the chain” Class of ’63, they are fulfill the USNA Out mission of “changing lives and minds of alumni and midshipmen.”
congrats
Congratulations Class of 2013!
Wearing those rings means you’re experiencing another tradition of the Naval Academy (and for the gay and lesbian mids, hopefully this year’s Ring Dance gave you more of an open opportunity to connect with classmates, someone special and the Naval Academy than in past years).
Be safe during summer training. Good luck with your upcoming 1/c year. Continue the hard work, but also enjoy it!