On May 13th, 2017, I had the privilege and honor of attending the American Military Partner Association’s (AMPA) annual gala, held at the Hyatt Regency on Capitol Hill.
I was there to support hundreds of our nation’s LGBT service members, veterans, military spouses, allies, from across the country and around the world at the 4th Annual AMPA National Gala, proudly presented by USAA and Comcast NBCUniversal.
AMPA is the nation’s largest resource and support network for the partners, spouses, families, and allies of America’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) service members and veterans. As a nonprofit organization founded by the partners of active duty service members, AMPA has grown to the strength of over 50,000 members and supporters and is proud to be leading the nation in education, advocacy, and support for our modern military families.
Through their unprecedented work, they are building strong resource and support networks like no other. Their Mission is to connect, support, honor, and serve the partners and spouses of America’s LGBT service members and veterans – our nation’s modern military families.
This particular gala had ornate architecture and a sprawling bar that showcased delicious wines, great conversation and memorable times.
At the event, I was able to mingle with several modern military families at the reception. I learned so much about various trials and tribulations military couples endure even to this day.
Although “Dont Ask Dont Tell” has been repealed since 2008, many couples still deal with ramifications and hardships due to society’s constructs.
One of my personal favorite moments was when I met this adorable army couple. They had a riot when they found out I had Power Ranger pez dispensers in my purse and started to play with it, and that brought in a bigger, more boisterous crowd. This gala was a celebration of love and joy and everyone was able to unwind and goof off.
The reception opened up with remarks from notable staff and with military influencers. The gala closed with goals on how to enhance AMPA’s mission and with scoring scholarship funds (thanks to Comcast) for military spouses who want to go back to school.
If you want to support the American Military Partner Association, visit their website here
About American Military Partner Association
The American Military Partner Association is the nation’s largest resource and support network for the partners, spouses, families, and allies of America’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) service members and veterans. As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization founded by the partners of active duty service members, AMPA has grown to the strength of over 50,000 members and supporters and is proud to be leading the nation in education, advocacy, and support for our modern military families. Through our unprecedented work, we’re building strong resource and support networks like no other.
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