The recent reinstatement of a ban on transgender individuals serving in the U.S. military is a stark reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and recognition. The Heroes in Focus Foundation stands firmly in support of transgender service members and veterans, and we are committed to ensuring their contributions are documented, honored, and preserved for history.

Through the lens of Rory Lewis, our foundation is launching a critical new project to capture the portraits and stories of transgender U.S. military personnel—those who have served, those currently in uniform, and those now barred from serving due to the latest restrictions. This project will serve as a historical record of their valor, resilience, and dedication to their country at a time when their service is under attack.

A Legacy of Service, Now at Risk

For almost a decade, transgender service members have served openly, holding vital roles across all branches of the military, including infantry, aviation, law enforcement, military intelligence, and nuclear engineering. These are not just jobs—they are highly specialized positions requiring years of training and expertise. With the ban on enlistment and gender-affirming healthcare now in place, many dedicated soldiers, sailors, and airmen find themselves once again marginalized and at risk of losing their careers.

Their stories must be heard.

A Proven History of Capturing Military Excellence

This is not the first time Rory Lewis has undertaken such an important initiative. In the United Kingdom, he worked closely with transgender military personnel, including Warrant Officer 2 (WO2) Deborah Penny, the first transgender British soldier to serve on the front line. Her portrait, which powerfully reflects her service and courage, was acquired by the National Portrait Gallery and won the Portrait of Britain Prize in 2018.

WO2 Penny’s military career spanned over three decades. She served in Northern Ireland, Cyprus, Iraq, and Afghanistan, completed the elite Commando Course, and deployed to Afghanistan in Operation HERRICK, becoming the first transgender soldier in an operational theater. She later became a leading advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion within the British Army, advising military leadership and establishing support networks for service members.

Her portrait was more than just an image—it was a statement of resilience, inclusion, and the undeniable contributions of transgender service members.

Why This Project Matters

As history has shown, marginalized communities are often erased from military records and public memory. The reinstatement of this ban threatens to silence the voices of transgender service members, pushing their contributions into the shadows. Through the Heroes in Focus Foundation, we refuse to let this happen.

By capturing their portraits and stories, we ensure that the world sees them for who they truly are—heroes who stepped forward to serve, despite the barriers placed before them.

How You Can Help

This project depends on donations from supporters who believe in the power of storytelling through art. Your contributions will help fund the travel, equipment, and resources needed to document these service members before their history is erased.

Every person who has risked their life in defense of their country deserves to be seen and remembered. Let’s stand together and honor these brave individuals before it is too late.

🔗 Donate today to support this vital project: