In 1941 Franklin Edward Kameny was a 16-year old studying physics at Queens College, NY, when World War II interrupted his studies. He was drafted and served in Europe with the 58th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, 9th Army. After the war, he resumed his studies, obtaining a Ph.D. (1956) in astronomy from Harvard University. Following graduation, Dr. Kameny was hired into a teaching position at Georgetown University and was also employed by the U.S. Army Map Service. In 1953 President Eisenhower issued Executive Order 10450 which broadened the definition of “national security risks” to include “sexual perversion,” as a result, Dr. Kameny was immediately terminated.  

Like most Veterans, Dr. Kameny didn’t throw in the towel or walk away at the injustice committed against him and many of his fellow colleagues; instead, it only fueled the fight. That year, 1961, Dr. Kameny founded the Mattachine Society as an organized means to stop the needless firing of homosexuals from federal service. He became one of the leading inspirations of the Civil Rights movement, aiding not only LGBT rights but also aiding in Vietnam War protests as well as influencing the women’s and disabled rights movements. Dr. Kameny was one of the main influences in the Civil Rights Act of 1964  and a main advocate for the removal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.”  

Attached below are pictures of Dr. Kameny doing what he loved. If possible try and take a few moments of your day to celebrate Dr. Kameny by mentally thanking all of our Veterans who have lead the way in righting injustices, not only to make the world a better place for themselves but also countless others.