In a ceremony underscoring NCFM’s international reach and shared commitment to equal protection, Carl Augustsson, NCFM Board Member and International Coordinator (left), presented the Marc Angelucci Award of Honor to Plamen Lesev, NCFM’s liaison in Bulgaria (right). The presentation, held in Plamen’s home country, highlighted the global nature of the fight against sex‑based discrimination and honored a man whose work has strengthened NCFM’s mission across borders.
Marc Angelucci, Esq. (RIP), Founder of NCFM Los Angeles, longtime NCFM Vice President, and one of the nation’s foremost constitutional attorneys.
Named for the late Marc Angelucci, the award recognizes individuals who embody Marc’s courage, constitutional clarity, and unwavering dedication to justice for men and boys. Plamen’s contributions stand firmly in that tradition.
Plamen’s Leadership on Conscription and the Selective Service System
Plamen has distinguished himself through sustained work exposing the discriminatory nature of the Selective Service System, which continues to require only men — and even male minors — to register for a potential draft. His research, analysis, and advocacy have helped NCFM articulate how this system violates equal protection principles and imposes lifelong penalties on men who fail to register.
As NCFM’s Bulgarian liaison, Plamen has also provided valuable insight into conscription practices across Europe, where many countries continue to impose military obligations solely on men. His concise reporting on European draft systems — including nations that maintain male‑only service, those that have suspended conscription but still require men to register, and those exploring gender‑neutral models — has strengthened NCFM’s ability to demonstrate that sex‑based conscription is not only unconstitutional in the United States but part of a broader global pattern of discrimination.
This international perspective has helped NCFM show that:
- Male‑only conscription is a widespread human‑rights issue.
- Equal‑protection‑based reform is both feasible and already underway in parts of Europe.
- The U.S. Selective Service System is out of step with modern norms of gender equality.
Plamen’s contributions align closely with contradictions highlighted in NCFM’s litigation efforts, including the fact that transgender women (born male) must register for the draft even though they are banned from serving, and that men who fail to register face lifelong penalties, while women face none. His European analysis reinforces the irrationality and inequity of sex‑based conscription systems worldwide.
Carl Augustsson’s Presentation in Bulgaria
During the presentation, Carl emphasized both Plamen’s accomplishments and the broader importance of continuing Marc Angelucci’s fight against sex‑based discrimination. As NCFM’s International Coordinator, Carl highlighted the critical role of international allies like Plamen, whose work helps extend NCFM’s mission beyond the United States.
He spoke of the responsibility carried by every advocate who steps forward to challenge inequity, and he underscored how Plamen’s leadership — particularly on conscription and equal protection — has strengthened NCFM’s efforts worldwide.
Presenting the award in Bulgaria symbolized the global relevance of NCFM’s mission and the importance of international collaboration in advancing fairness and constitutional equality.
Honoring Marc’s Legacy, Advancing the Mission
The Marc Angelucci Award of Honor is more than a recognition — it is a reminder of the work still ahead. Marc devoted his life to challenging discriminatory laws, including those embedded in the Selective Service System. By honoring Plamen Lesev, NCFM affirms that this fight continues and that dedicated advocates around the world are carrying Marc’s torch forward.
Plamen’s contributions — especially his leadership on conscription, equal protection, and international outreach — exemplify the values Marc championed: courage, clarity, and a commitment to justice for all.
Awesome. Great work Plamen!
Thank you, James. It’s a group effort. 🙂 I’m so honored to be a part of this organization.
Mark Angelucci is the embodiment of an incredible soul. He did more for humanity just by walking the walk than anyone I have ever met. He never gave up. He fought the good fight until the end and it was an honor to call him a friend.
Congratulations! Anyone awarded The Mark Angelucci Honor has just been awarded something that speaks volumes of the man.
Thank you so much, Lisa. Marc’s loss has been felt on the other side of the Atlantic. That’s how big his influence was. I think about him often. I was friends with him on Facebook. He was always so gracious with me when I commented on his posts and stuff. I was incredibly impressed with him for going into the Courts to enact real change. I was absolutely heartbroken when I found out about his death. So this award means more to me than you will ever know. It is for sure one of the highlights of my life.
This award is for you, Marc.
I’m incredbly honored by this award. Thank you.