If you're tracing your British family history and have a relative who served in World War II, you’re not alone. Millions of people across the UK and the Commonwealth contributed to the war effort, leaving behind a wealth of records that can offer incredible insights into your family’s past. This guide will walk you through the steps to uncover your British ancestor’s WWII military service, and help you connect with WWII service records, military archives, and personal stories.
Whether you're just starting out or stuck at a dead end, this post will help you move forward.
Step 1: Start With What You Know
Begin by gathering all available information from family members, including:
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Full name and date of birth
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Place of residence during the 1930s–1940s
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Military service branch (Army, Royal Navy, RAF, etc.)
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Any medals, photographs, or service numbers
These details will help you narrow down your search in UK military records and archives.
Step 2: Access British WWII Service Records
How to Get British Army WWII Records
Unlike World War I records, most WWII British Army service records are not publicly available online (yet). However, you can request them from the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) if the person died over 25 years ago, or if you're their next of kin.
➡️ Search for British WWII Service Records via the UK Government:
https://www.gov.uk/get-copy-military-service-records
You’ll need:
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A death certificate or proof of death
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Known service details
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A small fee (around £30)
RAF and Royal Navy Records
Similar to the Army, RAF service records and Royal Navy records can be obtained through the MOD. However, some earlier Royal Navy service records are already available on platforms like The National Archives or Ancestry UK.
Step 3: Search The National Archives and Online Databases
The UK’s National Archives in Kew is a goldmine for military history. Their collection includes:
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WWII operational records
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Unit war diaries
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Prisoner of war records
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Medal rolls
➡️ Visit: https://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk
You can also use genealogy platforms like:
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Ancestry.co.uk
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Findmypast.co.uk
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Forces War Records
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MyHeritage
Search using your ancestor’s name, service number, or regiment for possible hits in WWII enlistment records, honour rolls, and casualty lists.
Step 4: Look Into Regimental and Unit Histories
Once you’ve identified your ancestor’s unit or regiment, research its history. Many regimental associations maintain archives and are happy to help with family inquiries.
Check out:
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Imperial War Museums (https://www.iwm.org.uk)
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Regimental museums and associations
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WWII forums and veteran networks
These resources can give you context about where your ancestor served, key battles, and daily life during wartime.
Step 5: Search for Medals and Honors
Your ancestor may have been awarded campaign medals or commendations. Use the UK Medal Index Cards, the London Gazette, and service records to find:
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The 1939–1945 Star
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Africa Star
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Italy Star
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Distinguished Service Cross, and more
If the original medals have been lost, they can often be replaced or purchased from reputable military dealers.
Step 6: Memorials and Rolls of Honour
If your ancestor died during the war, the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) provides detailed information on their burial or commemoration.
➡️ Search the CWGC database: https://www.cwgc.org
This includes:
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Rank and service number
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Date of death
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Regiment or unit
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Burial site or memorial
Step 7: Share and Preserve Their Story
Once you've uncovered your ancestor’s military story, consider sharing it with your family or a wider audience. This helps preserve their legacy for future generations.
You can:
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Create a family history scrapbook
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Add their details to online memorials
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Share on social media or ancestry websites
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Contribute to digital archives
Start Your Family History Journey Today
If you're feeling overwhelmed or need help interpreting the records, our team specializes in British military ancestry research. Whether you're just starting or trying to break through a brick wall, we're here to guide you.
👉 Need help researching your WWII ancestor? Let us help you start your journey today!