James Wharton

James Wharton, originally from Wrexham, North Wales, joined the British Army in August 2003.

On completion of his initial training, James entered the ranks of the Household Cavalry, choosing to be a member of the elite Blues and Royals.

Over the past 8 years, James has jumped between the two very different roles on offer in the Household Cavalry: Ceremonial Duties, and Operational Duties.

In 2007, James served in Southern Iraq for seven months carrying out his duties as an Armoured Recconassence soldier. In 2008, James spent 4 months assisting in the training of other troops, preparing for active service, at the British Army's training facility in Alberta, Canada.

James has played a part on all major state ceremonial occasions, including the State Opening of Parliament, Lord Mayors Parade, Cenotaph Parade, and the Queens Birthday Parade.

In April 2011, James was delighted to be escorting the Sovereign on the occasion of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's wedding.

James has recently toured secondary schools in the UK as a positive role model for Stonewall in their Education for All campaign, talking of his experiences as an 'out' gay soldier in the British Military.

James was the first openly gay person to appear on the front cover of Soldier magazine, the British Army's official publication, which also had an in-depth article on James' life as its feature.

Marrying his long term partner, Thomas, in March 2010, James and his husband became the first gay couple to be united by civil partnership, in the Household Cavalry's 350 year history.

James has modeled for Ross Watson, who created a painting and a number of photographic portraits of James in August 2011. Some of which have been bought by Sir Elton John.

The paining and portraits made their debut in December 2011 in Sydney at Ross' 25th anniversary in art exhibition.

In October 2011, James was ranked 17th in the Independent on Sunday's Pink list- the 101 most influential gay men and women in the country.

James and Thomas currently live in Putney, south west London, with their adorable dog, Pickle.

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