Prior to 2000, a number of armed forces personnel were discharged from service on the basis of their sexuality. Some received convictions under specified legislation that has now been de-criminalised, while others were discharged solely on the basis of their sexuality, without any conviction.

In the course of their discharge, some personnel either forfeited medals directly, or were prevented from continuing to serve and thus denied the ability to regain medals that might previously have been forfeited for unrelated reasons.

The MOD is committed to addressing this historical wrong and is introducing a policy which enables individuals to apply to have their medals restored.

For restoration to be considered under this policy there must be clear evidence that discharge from the service and forfeiture of medals was for a reason primarily connected with sexuality and that there are no other significant issues which were the cause of their dismissal. Where it is felt that the evidence is not clear cut, extra information is required to understand the circumstances under which a medal was forfeited, or if there is another basis on which the medal might remain forfeited, applicants will, where appropriate, be given the opportunity to provide further information or representations in writing.

If the Defence Council decides upon the restoration of a medal, the MOD Medal Office will arrange for a new medal to be awarded to the claimant, as an original.

An applicant who was not the subject of a conviction covered by section 92 of the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 but who was discharged from the service solely on the basis of their sexuality, should apply to the MOD Medal Office with a covering letter summarising the circumstances of their discharge from the armed forces using the medals application form.

Where a deceased individual was not the subject of a conviction but was discharged from military service solely on the basis of their sexuality, the next of kin may apply to the MOD Medal Office for the return of the relevant medals.

Please navigate to page provided, where you will find the application form and relevant postal address.

The Ministry of Defence website provides information on military veteran policies, healthcare, housing, records, pensions and more.