Gay Man Makes Cover Of UK's Soldier

An openly gay decorated Iraq veteran is on the cover of the current issue of the official British army title, Soldier Magazine, the first such appearance for a gay man.

JUST ten years ago it was illegal to be gay in the UK Armed Forces. But since 2000, following a ruling by the European Court of Human Rights, homosexual men and woman have been able to proudly serve – without hiding their sexuality. In an interview with Soldier, Tpr James Wharton (The Household Cavalry Regiment) explained that instead of being oppressed, gay and lesbian Army personnel are now given full support. “I came out to the Army before I told my parents, so that says a lot for the Armed Forces,” said the 22-year-old. I told the Army in March 2003, after all my initial training was over – I was 18. I have always known I was gay but it wasn’t until then that I told anyone.” The decision to lift the ban on gays in the Army came after two landmark cases heard at the European Court of Human Rights, which found that the MoD’s policy was not sustainable. espite the change, the other half of the UK’s “special relationship” – the United States – has not relaxed its attitude towards homosexuals in the Forces. “I still can’t get my head round the US’ ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ policy,” said Tpr Wharton, who has served Queen and country for six years.

Soldier's current issue also features an interview with a lesbian couple who are both Army captains.

(Via - Box Turtle Bulletin)