A new memorial dedicated to LGBT veterans is set to be installed at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, recognizing the sacrifices made by those who served under policies that once criminalized their very existence. The sculpture, titled Crumpled Letter, designed by the Norfolk-based Abraxas Academy artists’ collective, seeks to commemorate the thousands of service members who suffered dismissal, discrimination, and abuse due to their sexual orientation or gender identity before the ban on LGBT personnel was lifted in 2000.
The forged bronze sculpture bears text derived from testimonies of veterans impacted by the ban—words that tell the stories of lost careers, shattered dreams, and, in many cases, lives irreparably altered. The piece, which will be unveiled in August, serves as both a tribute and a solemn reminder of a dark chapter in military history. Commissioned by the LGBT military charity Fighting with Pride and funded by a £350,000 grant from the Office for Veterans’ Affairs, the memorial stands as one of the 49 recommendations from the landmark review into LGBT veterans’ experiences, led by Lord Etherton.
A Step Toward Healing
For many veterans, the installation of Crumpled Letter represents more than just an artistic statement—it is a form of long-awaited justice. Kevin Bazeley, a veteran discharged under the ban, emphasized the deep wounds left by past military policies: “Many of us faced interrogations, imprisonment, and career destruction simply because of who we are. This memorial acknowledges that injustice while honoring the dedication and sacrifice of LGBT service members.”
For the LGBT community, the significance of such recognition cannot be overstated. Beyond honoring those who were wronged, the memorial stands as an affirmation that the armed forces have moved forward, albeit belatedly, in their approach to diversity and inclusion. While policies have changed, many veterans still bear the scars of past discrimination—both emotionally and financially. The fight for full acknowledgment and compensation continues, but Crumpled Letter marks a crucial step in ensuring these stories are not erased from history.
Looking Toward the Future
Lead artist Nina Bilbey, speaking on behalf of Abraxas Academy, expressed the team’s emotional connection to the project. “We put our hearts and souls into this design, knowing how much it means to those affected,” she shared. “It’s not just about remembering the past, but about ensuring that future generations never forget the sacrifices made.”
As the UK military continues its efforts toward greater inclusivity, the installation of this memorial is a testament to the progress made and the work still required. For younger LGBT service members, Crumpled Letter serves as both a lesson and a legacy—one that underscores the ongoing battle for equality and the importance of honoring those who paved the way.