A star from the TV show Traitors expressed her appreciation for the King’s presence at the unveiling of the first memorial honoring LGBT armed forces veterans.
Leanne Quigley, a former Army member and champion of Series 3 on the BBC reality program, described the day as profoundly impactful. She mentioned, “It has been a significant day as it marks 25 years since the ban on LGBT individuals in the armed forces was lifted. Today, many are experiencing a sense of relief, validation, and visibility. This day holds great significance for them.”
At 28 years old, Leanne expressed her admiration for the King’s attendance at the event, highlighting the meaningful conversations she had with veterans who had endured hardships post-dismissal.
She shared, “There were emotional exchanges and a sense of acknowledgment among many. Today signifies a momentous occasion where individuals are finally recognized as veterans, a title they may not have embraced previously. It is indeed a powerful day.”
This event marked the first instance of His Majesty the King participating in an official capacity at an LGBT gathering.
The ban, which persisted until the year 2000 despite the decriminalization of homosexuality, resulted in the dismissal of numerous personnel from the Army, Royal Navy, and RAF. Many faced persecution, harassment, involuntary outing, and even incarceration due to their sexual orientation. Those who had served with distinction saw their careers, ranks, and accolades stripped away, leading to enduring mental health challenges.
For years, the Mirror has backed Fighting With Pride’s advocacy for recognition, assistance, and compensation for LGBT veterans. The dedication ceremony, attended by over 100 present and former armed forces members alongside the monarch, marked the culmination of extensive efforts by the LGBT veterans charity Fighting with Pride.
The Irish Guard band performed popular tunes by Queen, Lady Gaga, and ABBA as veterans congregated at the memorial site, nestled amidst hawthorn trees in a sunlit area at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.
The sculpture, resembling an unfolded letter, symbolizes the personal letters that were exploited to discredit and incriminate serving personnel, resulting in prosecutions and imprisonments in some cases.
Addressing the attendees, Brigadier Clare Phillips remarked, “My journey has transitioned from a life of secrecy, fear, and obscurity to one of pride, openness, and happiness.”
She continued, “Rather than concealing myself, living in fear, and hiding in the shadows, I now feel celebrated and supported for being my authentic self. My contributions are valued, my family is embraced, and my presence is celebrated.”
She emphasized, “Today’s LGBT personnel are defined by their service to the nation, not by sexual orientation, race, or gender. This memorial guarantees that we will forever honor those who served, suffered, and sacrificed before us.”
Additionally, Louise Sandher-Jones, the minister for Veterans and People, labeled the day as significant for LGBT veterans, expressing hope that the memorial would inspire more affected individuals to step forward.
She stated, “Military service creates a sense of belonging and a desire to serve. The ordeal of being forced to leave due to one’s identity is profoundly traumatic. Some are still reconciling with their journey. I encourage all affected individuals to come forward.”
Veterans who were discharged under the ban are eligible to seek financial restitution and participate in an impact scheme for those who endured specific hardships. Those who were stripped of their ranks and awards can request reinstatement.
“We have various schemes for restoration, including financial restitution for those discharged and an impact scheme for those who suffered. Non-financial measures, such as rank and medal reinstatement, are also available. I urge all eligible individuals to come forward at their own pace,” Sandher-Jones concluded.