‘Lives were ruined’: 25 years after Armed Forces ‘gay ban’ repeal, LGBTQ+ veterans share their memories

Roly Woods (Image: Roly Woods)

Stepping aboard the HMS Wellington on this crisp winter’s day, I was reminded of the vessel’s impressive history. Though docked on the Thames since 1948, it was in battle for almost the entirety of World War II. Since then, aside from being an iconic landmark on the riverbank, it serves as an event space for private functions and also many military events and celebrations.

It was a warm welcome once I scurried over the bridge and through the ship’s double doors, greeted first by a friendly member of staff who offered to take my coat, before being ushered past the ship’s grand staircase and eventually to its wardroom. Feeling perfectly at ease in my surroundings, I couldn’t help but think of the countless men and

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