Researching an ANZAC ancestor’s military service during WWI: his story and legacy New Zealander Walter Oscar Johanson answered his country’s call and left his homeland to serve during World War I (WWI),…
Royal Canadian Air Force records: researching your air service ancestors
Where to find Royal Canadian Air Force records and how to research Canadian air force ancestors. The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) achieved a huge milestone on 1 April, 1924: 100 years…
The Great Escape: a true story
Researching the names of all 76 escapers during the real Great Escape. What does the term ‘great escape’ mean to you? For many, it conjures vivid images from the iconic 1963 prisoner-of-war…
4 inspiring women’s stories from WWII
Celebrating inspiring women’s stories from our collections: March is Women’s History Month, and 8th March is International Women’s Day. Inspiring women’s stories can be found throughout our vast world of collections on…
Fred Simpson: two times prisoner of war
Not long out of a prisoner of war camp in Korea, Fred Simpson returns home to marry his fiance. However, there’s more to this photo than meets the eye. Read on as…
Author’s pick: top 5 WWII records to help you research your military ancestors with Forces War Records
Our subscribers have access to a diverse range of WWII records, from medal records and casualty collections to officer lists. Below are my top five records to help you learn more about…
National Service Records: what’s available to researchers?
Did your family member serve with the armed forces under National Service? Perhaps they shared stories of their time in uniform with you, or you’ve stumbled on a photo in an album…
The Dickin Medal: 80 years of recognising brave animals
Animals have provided a vital service to the armed forces for centuries, from delivering messages to carrying ammunition or offering companionship. 80 years ago, their bravery was recognised for the first time…
Letters from my ancestor: discovering a WWI story
We asked the Forces War Records community to share letters from their military ancestors, and you didn’t disappoint. In our latest blog, Letters from my ancestor, we explore the letters of Cecil…
7 essential military records for discovering navy ancestors
Britain has a strong maritime tradition, and you may have navy ancestors waiting to be discovered. But how do you uncover details of your ancestors’ service with the Royal Navy, and what…