bbc.com
RAF Veteran Honors LGBTQ+ Veterans
A 91-year-old RAF veteran will lay a wreath to honor LGBTQ+ service members at Watford's Remembrance Sunday parade.
English
United Kingdom
Human Rights ViolationsMilitaryGender IssuesHistoryRemembranceLgbtq+Veteran
RafRoyal Army Pay CorpsProud WatfordBootsAustin Reed
Bryan TimberlakeWilli DixonQueen Elizabeth
- What broader significance does this event hold?
- Timberlake's actions highlight the importance of recognizing the contributions and experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals who served in the military, despite the challenges they faced due to societal prejudice.
- What was Bryan Timberlake's career like after leaving the RAF?
- After leaving the RAF, Timberlake had a diverse career, including working for Boots and Austin Reed and running a cafe and guesthouse. He also spent many years performing as a drag queen.
- What was Bryan Timberlake's experience of being gay in the RAF in the 1950s?
- Despite homosexuality being illegal during his service in the 1950s, Timberlake said he did not experience significant hostility and was even somewhat protected by his colleagues.
- Who will be laying a wreath at Watford's Remembrance Sunday parade this year?
- Bryan Timberlake, a 91-year-old RAF veteran, will lay a wreath at Watford's Remembrance Sunday parade to honor LGBTQ+ members of the armed forces. This will be the first time LGBTQ+ veterans are specifically remembered in this way.
- What is the significance of Bryan Timberlake's wreath-laying for Proud Watford?
- Proud Watford, an LGBTQ+ support group, is honored to be represented at the Remembrance service. This is the first year Watford has specifically recognized LGBTQ+ people who served in the military.