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…
Tag: WWII
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…
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…
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…
Researching WWII ancestors: overcoming the challenges
Why can researching WWII ancestors be so challenging? Military Genealogist Simon Pearce tackles the question and provides advice on how to make meaningful discoveries. Intro Many of us have family members who…
Story behind the image: smoke floats and WWII rescues
In the above photo, munitions workers at a factory in the south of England stack smoke floats for aircraft in October 1941, ready for despatch. These curious-looking items played an important role…
Royal Artillery Tracer Cards: what are they, and how can they help you with your research?
Our UK, WWII, Royal Artillery Tracer Cards, 1939-1948 collection is a must for anyone wishing to piece together the movements of an ancestor who served with the Royal Artillery during WWII. The…