Belfast-born Abi Austen became the first transgender British Army officer – and the first female Parachute Regiment officer – 20 years ago 🏳️‍⚧️ But after she transitioned, the Army tried to dismiss her and she later sued. Now, two decades on, she’s received an official apology from Downing Street, along with a commemorative pin, and her Parachute Regiment beret back. Sharing the moment on social media, Abi wrote: “Today has turned into one of those monumental days I will never forget. 20 years ago, I was summarily dismissed from the army for deciding I wanted to live an authentic life. Today, I received a letter of apology, a commemorative pin, and, most importantly, my Parachute Regiment beret has been returned to me with honour. I’ll be a paratrooper once more ‘till the day I die. Tears are flowing. I never thought I’d see this. The sense of shame and anger that has hung over me these last two decades has lifted. I have rejoined the best damn Regiment in the whole f***ing world...