A star from the show “Traitors” expressed her appreciation for the King’s presence at the unveiling of the first memorial dedicated to LGBT armed forces veterans. Leanne Quigley, a former Army soldier and winner of BBC’s Series 3 reality show, described the event as “profound.” She mentioned that 25 years have passed since the ban on LGBT individuals serving in the armed forces was lifted, and many now feel acknowledged and validated.
Leanne, aged 28, expressed her astonishment at the King’s attendance at the ceremony and conveyed her gratitude for his participation. She shared the meaningful conversations she had with veterans who had endured hardships following their discharge.
The event marked the first time His Majesty the King had participated in an official LGBT function. The ban on LGBT individuals serving in the Army, Royal Navy, and RAF, which persisted until 2000, resulted in the dismissal and mistreatment of many service members, causing long-lasting mental health issues.
The Mirror has long supported Fighting With Pride’s initiative to recognize and support LGBT veterans. The dedication service, attended by over 100 current and former armed forces members, alongside the monarch, was a culmination of the advocacy efforts by the LGBT veterans charity Fighting with Pride.
At the ceremony, Brigadier Clare Phillips shared her journey from secrecy and fear to pride and joy in her career. She emphasized the importance of honoring and remembering the sacrifices made by past LGBT service members and ensuring progress towards inclusivity and support within the armed forces.
Louise Sandher-Jones, the minister for Veterans and People, described the day as significant for LGBT veterans and encouraged those affected by the ban to come forward. Veterans discharged under the ban are eligible to apply for financial restitution and other support schemes.
The sculpture at the memorial, resembling an open letter, symbolized the personal letters used to discredit and harm serving personnel based on their sexuality. The Band of the Irish Guard played music as veterans gathered at the memorial, situated in the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.
The event aimed to acknowledge the sacrifices and hardships endured by LGBT veterans and promote a more inclusive and supportive environment within the armed forces.
