A star from the TV show Traitors expressed her appreciation for the King’s presence at the unveiling of the inaugural memorial dedicated to LGBTQ armed forces veterans.
Leanne Quigley, a former Army member and champion of Series 3 on BBC’s reality program, described the day as profoundly impactful. She shared with the Mirror her sentiments, stating: “It has been 25 years since the ban on LGBTQ individuals serving in the armed forces was lifted. Today, many people are experiencing a sense of relief, validation, and visibility. It has truly been a remarkable day.”
At 28 years old, Leanne expressed her astonishment at having the King participate in the event, expressing gratitude for his attendance. She mentioned the meaningful conversations she had with veterans who had endured years of hardship after their dismissal.
“There were profound emotions and thoughts exchanged,” she remarked. “Many individuals now feel acknowledged as veterans, a status they may not have identified with previously. Today is indeed a powerful day.”
This marks the first instance of His Majesty the King engaging in an official capacity at an LGBTQ 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 incarceration due to their sexual orientation. These dedicated individuals lost their careers, ranks, and accolades, with many suffering from long-term mental health challenges.
For years, the Mirror has backed Fighting With Pride’s initiative to secure recognition, support, and compensation for LGBTQ veterans. The dedication service, attended by over 100 current and former armed forces members alongside the monarch, was emotionally significant and the culmination of years of advocacy by the LGBT veterans charity Fighting with Pride.
As veterans arrived at the memorial, located amidst hawthorn trees at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, the Band of the Irish Guard played songs by Queen, Lady Gaga, and ABBA.
The memorial sculpture, designed in the form of an unfolded letter, symbolizes the use of personal letters to discredit and incriminate serving personnel, leading to prosecution and imprisonment in some cases.
During the ceremony, Brigadier Clare Phillips reflected on her journey from a life of secrecy and fear to one of pride and openness. She emphasized the importance of celebrating one’s true self and honoring those who served, suffered, and sacrificed before.
Louise Sandher-Jones, the Minister for Veterans and People, described the day as significant for LGBTQ veterans and encouraged affected individuals to come forward, acknowledging the traumatic experiences they endured for being true to themselves.
Veterans discharged under the ban can seek financial restitution and apply for restoration of rank and medals through various schemes. Sandher-Jones urged all eligible individuals to step forward at their own pace.
In conclusion, the event served as a testament to progress in recognizing and supporting LGBTQ veterans, with a commitment to ensuring a future marked by acceptance, love, and unwavering support within the armed forces.