King Charles honored LGBT+ armed forces veterans by laying flowers at a newly unveiled memorial today. This marks his first official participation in an LGBT event. The ban on LGBT individuals serving in the armed forces was only lifted in 2000, causing many to lose their careers, face discrimination, or even imprisonment due to their sexuality.
The Mirror has long supported the campaign by Fighting With Pride to secure recognition, support, and compensation for LGBT veterans. This event was a poignant moment for over 100 current and former armed forces members who attended the dedication service with the King, following years of advocacy by Fighting with Pride.
Among the attendees was Claire Ashton, a trans woman and former Royal Artillery gunner who faced bullying and dismissal in 1972. She expressed relief and hope for future generations to join the armed forces without fear of discrimination.
The presence of King Charles at the ceremony was deeply significant, as noted by Carl Austin-Behan, a former RAF firefighter dismissed in 1997 for being gay. He highlighted the progress made since those discriminatory times and the importance of royal acknowledgment.
Commander Roly Woods, a veteran of the Royal Navy, emphasized the importance of the King’s attendance in acknowledging the past mistreatment of LGBT individuals in the armed forces. The sculpture at the memorial site symbolizes the hardships faced by many LGBT personnel, including prosecution and imprisonment.
Brigadier Clare Phillips shared her personal journey from secrecy to pride in her service, emphasizing the importance of honoring past sacrifices. The event aimed to unite LGBT personnel under the banner of service to the nation, promoting acceptance and support within the armed forces.
Louise Sandher-Jones, the Minister for Veterans and People, encouraged affected veterans to come forward for financial restoration and support services. The event also featured musical tributes and served as a reminder of the ongoing need to protect progress and promote inclusivity in the armed forces.