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   Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

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Service Records

Please read the information held on the Service Records page before writing to the relevant record office.

Q.
I am a former member of the Armed Forces. Can I obtain information from my service record?
 
A.
Yes, please write to the relevant record office listed on the service records page. You will need to provide some form of ID. This can be a copy of a recent bill, driving license or passport.
 
Q.
I am the widow/widower or legal next of kin of an ex-serviceman. Can I obtain information held on my spouses/parents/relatives service record?
 
A.
Yes, however you will need to provide proof of death and kinship. Please write to the relevant record office listed on the service records page.
 
Q.
I am not the widow/widower or legal next of kin of an ex-service person. Can I obtain information about the ex-service person held on service records?
 
A.
Only if you can obtain a letter of consent from either the person the record belongs to or, if that person is deceased from the widow/widower or legal next of kin. Once you have obtained the letter of consent, please write to the relevant record office listed on the service records page.
 
Q.
What other information is required by the record offices to access a service record?
 
A.
This varies slightly depending on whether the person was in the Royal Navy, Army or Royal Air Force. Please refer to the information held on the service records page.
 
Q.
Can I request a complete copy of my service record?
 
A.
Yes, please write to the relevant record office listed on the service records page.
 
Q.
Will I have to pay?
 
A.
Only if your request is for genealogical/family tree reasons.
 
Q.
Why are requests for information held on service records made?
 
A.

The reasons for requests are varied. When you write to the records offices, inform them of the reason why you are making the request. This will assist them in supplying the correct information. Some of the more common reasons for requests are:

  • Proof of service for joining military associations or ex-services organisations.
  • Proof of service to enable welfare assistance from ex-service organisations.
  • Proof of occupancy of Married Quarters for local councils.
  • Researching family trees or history.
  • Information held on service medical records.
   
Q.
I need information about a veteran who was in the services in the early 1920's or before. Where do I find it?
 
A.
Service records that reach a certain age, are archived at the Public Records Office (PRO). Generally service records dating from the early 1920's, or before, are held at the PRO however the date varies according to which service the person was in. Please read the information held on the Service Records page.

 

 

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