You're talking about discussions with veterans. However, the pseudo-scientific survey was conducted before the decision was made in November 2021. Everything was done before the jury made its decision.
In fact, the jury members were aware of the results of the survey. They took that into account before they made their decision.
What happened after that? Why was a memo sent in early 2023? Who did your predecessor speak to? Who said the concept had to be changed? Was there any pressure from veterans groups, for example? The decision wasn't public knowledge at the time. What happened to change it?