King Charles honored LGBT+ armed forces veterans by laying flowers at a new memorial today. This marks his first participation in an official LGBT event. The ban on LGBT service members, in place until 2000, led to the dismissal of many individuals from the Army, Royal Navy, and RAF, causing severe repercussions such as bullying, outing, and imprisonment.
Former servicemen and women lost their careers, ranks, and medals, facing long-lasting mental health challenges. The Mirror has been a strong supporter of Fighting With Pride’s campaign for the recognition and support of LGBT veterans. The dedication service, attended by over 100 current and former armed forces members, was a pivotal moment following years of advocacy by the charity.
One poignant attendee, Claire Ashton, a trans woman and former Royal Artillery gunner, shared her emotional experience at the memorial unveiling. Expressing relief after 53 years, Claire highlighted the significance of the event for future generations. Carl Austin-Behan, an RAF firefighter dismissed in 1997 for being gay, emphasized the symbolic importance of King Charles’s presence, reflecting on the progress made since the ban’s repeal.
Commander Roly Woods, a former Royal Navy member, emphasized the King’s attendance as a significant step towards acknowledging past injustices. The memorial ceremony, accompanied by music and heartfelt speeches, provided a platform for veterans to share their stories of resilience and hope for the future.
Brigadier Clare Phillips, speaking at the event, underscored the transition from secrecy and fear to pride and openness in her military career. She stressed the importance of honoring the sacrifices of past LGBT personnel and safeguarding progress for future inclusivity within the armed forces.
Louise Sandher-Jones, the minister for Veterans and People, commended the memorial as a pivotal moment for LGBT veterans. Encouraging affected individuals to come forward, she highlighted available schemes for financial restoration and support services. The event concluded with a call for unity, acceptance, and ongoing support for diversity within the armed forces.
