King Charles has unveiled the first memorial to the LGBTQ+ men and women who served in the UK’s armed forces.

“ An Opened Letter ” was unveiled at the National Memorial Arboretum, in Staffordshire, on Monday (27 October). Charles, who has never publicly commented on LGBTQ+ rights , laid a bouquet of flowers next to the memorial during the dedication ceremony.

Up until 2000, LGBTQ+ people were not allowed to serve in the army, air force or navy. Many veterans were court-martialled or forced to leave without an income or pension. Under the policy, anyone even just thought to be gay or transgender could be subjected to sometimes-brutal interrogation and dismissal. The free-standing sculpture, made from forged bronze features words taken from evidence from some of those affected by the ban.

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