Soldier Stories: Queer Service

Join expert guide Dan de la Motte as he showcases the lives and experiences of queer soldiers who have served in the Army.

Twenty-five years ago, the ban on homosexuality in the Armed Forces was lifted. This pivotal moment brought attention to the service of queer soldiers within the modern Army, but there are many other stories to tell from across the institution’s long history.

On this gallery tour, expert guide Dan de la Motte will showcase these stories through objects and artworks, ranging from Rex Whistler’s self-portrait and kit worn by Dame Kelly Holmes, to press reports about the Victorian general Sir Hector MacDonald. Dan will show how these stories relate to personal accounts of queer soldiers still serving with pride in the Army today.

This event is delivered in partnership with the Chelsea Heritage Quarter.

About the guide

Dan de la Motte is an actor/performer, presenter and creative practitioner, born and based in London. He has worked for the Unicorn Theatre, Yard Theatre, Museum of London, Queer Tours of London and National Portrait Gallery. Dan sits on Equity’s National Council, is an Associate Artist with Fevered Sleep and a Creative Climate Leader with arts and environmental charity Julie’s Bicycle. One of his current projects is the continuation of work on 'BOB', a documentary celebrating the life of war-time Dutch gay activist Bob Angelo.