King Charles placed flowers at a newly unveiled memorial honoring LGBT+ armed forces veterans today, acknowledging the impact on former servicemen and women affected by the historical ban on their service. This marked the first occasion that the King participated in an official LGBT event.
The ban, which persisted until 2000 despite the decriminalization of homosexuality, resulted in the dismissal of numerous individuals from the Army, Royal Navy, and RAF. Many faced persecution, harassment, involuntary outing, and even imprisonment due to their sexual orientation.
Former servicemen and women who had served with distinction lost their careers, ranks, and medals, often leading to enduring mental health challenges. The Mirror has long supported Fighting With Pride’s advocacy for the recognition, assistance, and compensation of LGBT Veterans.
The dedication service, attended by over 100 current and former armed forces members alongside the monarch, was a poignant moment culminating years of advocacy by the LGBT veterans charity, Fighting with Pride. One such individual, Claire Ashton, a trans woman and former Royal Artillery gunner, shared her emotional journey, reflecting on the significance of the memorial as a symbol of hope for future generations.
The presence of King Charles, as highlighted by Carl Austin-Behan, an RAF firefighter dismissed in 1997 for his sexual orientation, signified a significant step forward in acknowledging the past injustices. The event was graced by the Band of the Irish Guard, playing iconic songs as veterans gathered at the memorial nestled among hawthorne trees at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.
Commander Roly Woods, a retired Royal Navy officer who served during and after the ban, emphasized the importance of the King’s attendance, symbolizing the state’s recognition of past mistreatment. The sculpture’s design, resembling an open letter, serves as a reminder of the personal letters used against serving personnel.
Brigadier Clare Phillips, speaking at the event, shared her transformative journey from secrecy and fear to pride and acceptance, emphasizing the importance of honoring past sacrifices and ensuring a future marked by inclusivity and support.
Louise Sandher-Jones, the minister for Veterans and People, encouraged affected veterans to come forward to access financial restoration and support programs. The event concluded with a message of unity, acceptance, and progress for the armed forces community.
For those impacted by the ban and seeking restitution, various schemes are available, including financial restoration and non-financial measures like rank and medal restoration. The call to action is extended to all entitled individuals to step forward whenever they are ready.
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