Craig Jones, MBE, shares his extraordinary journey from a young boy in Bingley, West Yorkshire, to becoming a Royal Naval officer and a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion in the armed forces. Craig recounts the challenges he faced in the 1980s, including being told he would never make an officer, discovering his sexuality, and navigating a military environment that was not accepting of LGBTQ+ individuals. He reflects on pivotal moments in his career, such as his experiences in Northern Ireland and the impact of the repeal of the gay ban in 2000. Craig's story highlights the importance of support, resilience, and the power of leadership in driving change, ultimately leading to a more inclusive military culture.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Resilience in the Face of Adversity: Craig faced significant challenges when initially rejected from the Royal Navy. Instead of giving up, he used that experience as motivation to better prepare himself and ultimately succeeded in joining the Navy.

2. Impact of Personal Identity: Craig's journey of self-discovery regarding his sexuality occurred during a time when being gay in the military was illegal. This personal struggle influenced his career and the way he navigated his professional life in a predominantly heterosexual environment.

3. Advocacy for Change: After the ban on LGBT individuals in the military was lifted, Craig became an outspoken advocate for inclusivity within the armed forces. He actively campaigned for recognition and support for LGBT personnel, leading to significant changes in policies and attitudes.

4. Leadership and Support: The support from leaders like Admiral Lord West was crucial in facilitating change within the Royal Navy. Craig's interactions with influential figures helped to create a more inclusive environment, demonstrating the importance of leadership in driving cultural shifts.

5. Successful Transition to Civilian Life: After leaving the Navy, Craig transitioned smoothly into a corporate role at Barclays, where he leveraged his military experience to promote diversity and inclusion. His ability to adapt and thrive in a new environment highlights the transferable skills gained from military service.

BEST MOMENTS

"I was a lieutenant commander on the day that the ban was lifted, and I was a lieutenant commander on the day I left the service." - Craig Jones

"I was very determined that the ban should not be faceless. It shouldn't be a policy that dare not speak its name."

"I didn't leave the armed forces as a captain or an admiral, but actually looking back, I achieved what was really, really important to me."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

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HOST BIO

Joe O'Connor is a resilient business entrepreneur and Financial Adviser dedicated to supporting business owners and veterans in their transition to civilian life. Despite facing life-threatening challenges at a young age, Joe defied the odds and embarked on a remarkable journey. From excelling as a Combat Engineer and Physical Training Instructor in the Royal Engineers to starting his own business as a Financial Adviser, Joe has displayed unwavering determination.

After rejoining the Army as a reservist in the Bomb Disposal Unit, Joe reached the rank of Sergeant before transferring to the SAS, where he endured a severe injury and was medically discharged. Undeterred, he resumed his role as an IFA and founded a charity that aids injured veterans and their families.

Joe's charity is currently finalizing plans for a training center and 23 Lodges, aiming to provide vital support for veterans transitioning to civilian life while addressing stress, anxiety, and PTSD. Today, Joe's mission is to unite business owners and veterans, helping them unleash their full potential for success.