Gay soldier welcomed back

Tuesday, 18 February 2025 11:16

A soldier from the Royal Anglian Regiment who was dismissed in the 80s for being gay has been welcomed back into the Army at an event at Kendrew Barracks, Cottesmore, this week.

Gay people have only been able to be open about their sexuality in the military since the year 2000. Private Martin Diver, who started off as a rifleman with the 2nd Royal Anglians and then went on to music, now works as a mental health nurse, supporting the military. Private Diver says it really hurt when he came out to his colleagues.

"It didn't go down well. It wasn't well received. You know, as other people, we were technically a disgrace. And we'd disgrace ourselves and our regiment. And that's a big thing. I probably could have lived with myself, you know, disgracing myself in their eyes. But not the regiment. I was just me. And I couldn't help who I was. And that's the most devastating thing about it all, was that rejection. And it was a real physical sort of, you know, you are definitely, you're out of here now. And you're gone. And we don't really want to see you anymore. Whereas, well, that's what today's about, I guess, isn't it? It's about opening arms and embracing each other again, and yeah, it is what it is kind of thing, but um, it's so nice to be here today."

One of the regiment's colonels, Brigadier Guy Foden, says progress has been made over recent years in the force.

"Martin, we recognise that you were poorly treated, and today we are formally recognising this. I can only imagine how difficult it must have been. Rest assured that the Army has changed, and continues to change, and is a learning organisation. Your courage and determination, and your support for others, are an inspiration to us all, and the hallmarks of a good soldier. I'm so delighted that many of your friends are here today, and that David Till, your old platoon commander, is here to welcome you back. As a regiment, we seek to be a family and this certainly has the feel of a family gathering. Martin, ably supported by Oli, his support dog, does great things in support of the veteran community and I thank you for that. I know how much Service Dogs UK have done for you and continue to do for others but it is your contribution that we should applaud, thank you."