I have to imagine there were a lot of instances of homosexual behavior among troops. How did different nations deal with these occurrences? Did politicians or military officials do anything to deter or actively prevent this from happening? Was it ever a real “problem” to military brass? As always, thank you for the quality content and outstanding sensitivity you all exhibit shedding light on such challenging and divisive topics.
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It was a different time. Homosexuality was illegal everywhere except France where it had been legal since 1790.
In many cases it was overlooked as long as the couple were consciously discreet/closeted. It was wartime and conscription is hardly practicable if you give an easy out to unwilling conscripts through same-sex activity; jail and then discharge for a fling? A soldier is worth more in active service.
For officers it would usually mean dismissal in disgrace.