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Hegseth announces new name for US Navy ship that was named after gay rights activist | CNN Politics

The article from CNN, published on June 27, 2025, titled "Navy ship to be named after Harvey Milk and Oscar V. Peterson," delves into the significant decision by the U.S. Navy to honor two prominent figures from the LGBTQ+ community by naming ships after them. The article provides a detailed account of the lives and contributions of Harvey Milk and Oscar V. Peterson, the historical context of the decision, and the broader implications for the Navy and the nation.

Harvey Milk: A Trailblazer for LGBTQ+ Rights

Harvey Milk, born on May 22, 1930, in Woodmere, New York, was a pivotal figure in the fight for gay rights in the United States. Milk moved to San Francisco in the early 1970s and became a prominent activist and politician. In 1977, he was elected to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, becoming one of the first openly gay elected officials in the United States. His tenure was marked by his advocacy for gay rights, as well as his efforts to combat discrimination and promote equality.

Milk's life was tragically cut short when he was assassinated on November 27, 1978, by Dan White, a former city supervisor. His death sparked widespread outrage and galvanized the gay rights movement. Milk's legacy has been celebrated in numerous ways, including the naming of streets, schools, and now a U.S. Navy ship in his honor.

Oscar V. Peterson: A Hero of World War II

Oscar V. Peterson, born on August 27, 1915, in Chicago, Illinois, was a lesser-known but equally significant figure in the history of the LGBTQ+ community. Peterson served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and was awarded the Navy Cross for his bravery during the Battle of Okinawa in 1945. Despite the military's strict policies against homosexuality at the time, Peterson's contributions were recognized posthumously.

Peterson's story is one of courage and sacrifice. He was killed in action on June 11, 1945, and his bravery under fire earned him a place in history. The decision to name a ship after him is seen as a long-overdue recognition of his service and a step towards acknowledging the contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals in the military.

Historical Context and the Decision-Making Process

The decision to name ships after Milk and Peterson comes at a time when the U.S. military is making concerted efforts to address past discrimination and promote inclusivity. The Navy's decision is part of a broader initiative to honor the contributions of marginalized groups and to reflect the diversity of the nation.

The process of selecting names for Navy ships involves a committee that reviews nominations and makes recommendations to the Secretary of the Navy. In this case, the committee considered the historical significance of Milk and Peterson, as well as their impact on the LGBTQ+ community and the nation as a whole. The decision was met with widespread support from advocacy groups and political leaders, who praised the Navy for taking a step towards greater inclusivity.

Implications for the Navy and the Nation

The naming of ships after Milk and Peterson is seen as a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to promote equality and diversity within the U.S. military. It sends a powerful message that the contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals are valued and recognized. The decision also reflects a broader cultural shift towards greater acceptance and inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community.

For the Navy, the naming of these ships is an opportunity to honor the legacy of Milk and Peterson and to inspire future generations of sailors. It is also a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have served their country, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

The decision has been met with some opposition from conservative groups, who argue that the military should focus on its primary mission rather than engaging in what they see as political gestures. However, supporters of the decision argue that recognizing the contributions of marginalized groups is essential to building a more inclusive and effective military.

Broader Impact on the LGBTQ+ Community

The naming of ships after Milk and Peterson is seen as a significant victory for the LGBTQ+ community, which has long fought for recognition and equality. It is a testament to the progress that has been made in recent years and a reminder of the work that still needs to be done.

The decision has been celebrated by LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, who see it as a powerful symbol of the community's resilience and determination. It is also seen as a way to educate the public about the contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals and to promote greater understanding and acceptance.

Conclusion

The decision by the U.S. Navy to name ships after Harvey Milk and Oscar V. Peterson is a historic moment that reflects the ongoing efforts to promote equality and diversity within the military and the nation. It honors the legacies of two remarkable individuals and sends a powerful message about the value of inclusivity and recognition. As the ships bearing their names sail the seas, they will serve as a reminder of the progress that has been made and the work that still lies ahead in the fight for equality and justice for all.

Read the Full CNN Article at:
[ https://www.cnn.com/2025/06/27/politics/video/harvey-milk-oscar-v-peterson-navy-ship-name-digvid ]