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Out in the army
Captain Helen De Montes
"Soldiers have a unique sense of humour that is accompanied by an awesome sense of commitment and camaraderie"
Helen De Montes is a twenty-nine-year-old Captain in the British Army. She talks to Pride Life about life as a soldier, and as a lesbian, in today’s Armed Forces.
When did you decide to join the Army and why?
In 2003 after working two years in the NHS as a registered nurse, I wanted a new challenge and to work with driven, like-minded people.
What is a normal day in the Army?
There is no such thing as a normal day in the Army! It can include anything from treating wounded troops in Iraq to rock climbing in North Wales. That is where its beauty lies, in its variety. One is never bored!
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I really enjoy working with soldiers. Whether they have just been injured or not, they generally have a unique sense of humour that is accompanied by an awesome sense of commitment and camaraderie. I am very proud to work alongside them and have been humbled on many occasions by their bravery and courage on operations.
What kind of employer have you found the Army to be?
Personally I have found the Army to be a fair organization that has been able to adapt and progress with social changes and advances.
What's the best advice you've received in your career?
Always do the right thing. It generally means that not only you’ll get a good night's sleep, but others will too!
When did you come out as lesbian in the Army?
I came out from the start. The general reaction… There wasn't really one. Some superiors acknowledged my sexuality more than others. The bottom line is that my sexuality doesn’t affect my performance or operational effectiveness, so no one seems really that bothered. It’s accepted that I am a lesbian and have a female partner.
How inclusive is the Army these days?
Times have changed dramatically for the best. My partner generally accompanies me to all my military social functions and is treated warmly like any other guest.
This year the Army marched for the first time in uniform in the Pride parade in London. Why is this a good thing?
It is positive to march alongside the other two services together. All three services can then disseminate the message that we are proud to be gay and serve in the armed forces. And like other social minority groups we are capable of bringing diversity into the Armed Forces in a positive way.
