Biteback
Publishing has acquired world rights from James Wharton to his autobiography Out
In The Army: My Life as a Gay Soldier, the extraordinary true story of
Britain’s first ‘out’ soldier.
Out in the Army follows the amazing career journey of James Wharton as he becomes a man, joins the Army and learns to deal with his sexuality in a sometimes hostile environment, prior to coming to terms with it himself, and, in turn, helping the Army itself come to terms with homosexuality. Wharton’s experiences in the Army form the bedrock to this astonishing tale, from serving in southern Iraq and with Prince Harry in Canada, to being hospitalized due to a homophobic beating, to helping at the 7/7 bombings and serving at the Royal Wedding. His story is told right up until the point where he leaves the Army in 2013 after a ten year commitment.
The Army is certainly a different place now to when James signed up and there’s no question that he’s helped change opinions and made life easier for gay service people in the future. James was the first openly gay person to appear on the front cover of Soldier magazine, the British Army’s official publication. By being one of the first highly visible ‘out’ soldiers, James has helped the armed services to begin to address its institutionalized homophobia. James Wharton says: "I'm really delighted to be writing the book with Biteback. I hope it serves as a source of inspiration and shows how a traditional organisation like the British Army can be forward moving and accepting of diversity."
Iain Dale, Biteback Publisher, comments: "James has a compelling story, which is both moving, emotional, and at times very funny. His bravery in being open about his sexuality and lifting the lid on what it's like to be a gay soldier will serve as an inspiration to others, and be a real eye opener for those who still cling to the policy of 'don't ask, don't tell'. "
Out in the Army, My Life as a Gay Soldier will be published in June 2013. For more information please contact Suzanne.sangster@bitebackpublishing.com 020 7091 1260