Photo: bbc.com
"Former Navy Commander Reflects on Hiding Identity Amid Military's Gay Ban"
Former Royal Navy Commander Roly Woods reflects on concealing his LGBT identity during the militarys gay ban, coinciding with a memorial unveiling at the National Memorial Arboretum.
- Roly Woods, a former Commander in the Royal Navy, served for 46 years and joined the military in 1978, during a time when openly gay individuals faced discrimination.
- At the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, a bronze sculpture was unveiled to honor Woods and his LGBT colleagues who served under the militarys gay ban.
- Woods revealed he fabricated relationships with women and created cover stories to conceal his sexuality, highlighting the challenges faced by LGBT service members during that era.
Why It Matters
This event underscores the historical discrimination faced by LGBT individuals in the military and promotes awareness of the struggles and sacrifices made by those who served. It also reflects ongoing discussions around inclusivity and acceptance within military structures and society at large.