I was extemely fortunate and honoured to be included in the 2023 New Year's Honours list, recieving a MBE for my work in promoting diversity and inclusivity in the armed forces, as well as generally.

Following is the citation as shown in the offical form that was submitted:
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Since 2011, Sgt Alastair Smith has been a champion for the LGBT+ community across defence. During his service, he courageously announced to infantry colleagues that he was gay and immediately committed to making a difference the LGBT+ service personnel, searching for opportunities to drive and champion inclusion, education and recognition. A pioneer, his contribution has undoubtedly benefited the MOD’s reputation, challenged the organisation to practice inclusion, and created a foundation for a new generation of LGBT+ service personnel. A remarkable achievement for a Sgt, he has been a keystone to a fairer Armed Forces. His unstinting efforts, including lobbying for a change in Cyprus MOD Sovereign Base Areas law, culminated in 2016 when he was married in the first military same sex wedding, officiated by Air Chief Marshal Sir Michael Wigston, then Commander British Forces (Cyprus).

After attending the Army LGBT+ Forum in 2011, Sgt Smith volunteered his support. Empowered by the Royal pardoning of Professor Alan Turing, he identified the need to help Armed Forces Veterans who had been discharged due to the homosexuality prior to the legislation change in 2000. He designed the concept of the LGBT+ Veterans Ball, a unique event which thanks veterans who served before 2000 and had been discharged unfairly. Taking ownership and showing leadership well beyond his rank, he committed his own time to ensure these veterans will welcome back into the military community by delivering the first LGBT+ Veterans Ball in 2014. This was a huge success resulting in a congratulatory message from Sir Ian McKellen. The annual event continues to grow, with over 250 attendees including veterans, serving personnel, politicians and celebrities, testament to Sgt Smith’s vision and commitment.

Subsequently, he became the Army LGBT+ Forum’s East of England representative in 2017, and his experience and perspective we used as contribution to the Wigston Report. He then became the Diverse families lead for the Army LGBT+ Forum, publishing a Diverse Families Blog. He has represented Defence impressively multiple high-profile media commitments regarding the evolution of its LGBT+ community, including intelligently speaking about the impact of the lifting of the ban on homosexuality and what services like for an LGBT+ soldier. This includes interviews with Sky News, ITV and the Pink News, being a role model to tens of thousands and exemplifying ‘if you can see it, you can be it’. He was invited to join Fighting with Pride, and LGBT+ veterans charity, as a board member, bringing vital expertise and experience. He also cocreated the LGBT+ Parenting Handbook, using his experience of raising children in a same-sex marriage to impart invaluable advice. He also provides Diversity and Inclusion support to other instructors, branches and units across the Chicksands site.

Sgt Smith lived experience, passion, selfless commitment and leadership has had impact far beyond that expected of his rank; few NCOs have made such a positive impact across Defence. His support to serving and retired LGBT+ personnel is an inspiration. A true trailblazer and role model, he has led the way in educating Defence on the importance of including and respecting everyone, championing the LGBT+ community. Sgt Smith retires from service in October 2022. He has set a framework for LGBT+ personnel to be treated fairly; his legacy provides an enduring example to personnel across Defence.

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My official "invitation" from King Charles the Third is shown here:

Also shown here is a congratulatory letter from General Sir Patrick Sanders KCB CBE DSO ADC Gen, who said:
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"My heartfelt congratulations on your award in this year's New Year's Honours list. The process is rigorous and the competition fierce - it is a significant achievement and you and your family should be rightfully proud."

"Your success would not have been possible without considerable hard work and determination. You have made a real difference to the Army and the nation. The forthcoming ceremony and celebrations are richly deserved."

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Needless to say, I am extremely proud and humbled to receive recognition of this magnitude for my work.

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