This year, we have been collecting the stories of those in REME who are also part of the LGBTQ+ community. Veterans and serving personnel have taken the time to share their lives and their stories with us. We will be gathering some of the stories and quotes shared with us throughout the year on display boards within the museum. But here is a glimpse at some of the stories that we have received so far throughout the project.

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One of the questions asked discussed what it was like serving prior to the ban being lifted and then followed up with what it is like serving now the ban has been lifted. One participant who served in the military pre-ban lift said “It was a slow process of acceptance and that seems to have changed now and it seems the army is very open.” Others expressed that since the ban was lifted “witnessing gay acceptance has been a breath of fresh air.  My career is now not affected by who I am and I feel very comfortable to talk about my spouse in a positive way”.

We have gathered a variety of commentaries for a variety of different ranks, genders, sexualities and identities, and not only asked about their experience as part of the LGBTQ+ community but as soldiers. The range of experience includes Craftsman who said “So far the highlight of my short career was pass off in phase one nothing will beat the feeling of completing phase one training”.

As a part of asking participants about their service, we also asked questions about whether they were treated differently at any point. One respondent said “I don’t think my career has been too different, but I have had a male soldiers open up to me about being gay while we were on courses and AT, but only to me. I think that shows there’s still some hesitation for men to be open, but it hasn’t really affected my own experience or opportunities.”

We would like to thank all who have replied to the questionnaire and recorded their testimonials with the museum. We are currently creating the display boards that will be put in the museum. If you would like to give your story, you have until the end of October before the questionnaire closes.

Please note: the questionnaire for this project is now closed. We'd always love to hear from you, so if you would like to talk about how to contribute your story, please get in touch.

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Banner image: London Pride, 2025. © Crown, reproduced under Open Government Licence.

This project is possible thanks to Museum Development South West, and support from Arts Council England through their Small Open Grants.