British Army Service Records: WWI & WWII Guide

A soldier’s service record is the official log of their military career. These files contain personal details, medical history, unit assignments, discipline notes, promotions, and more. For genealogists, they offer a treasure trove of insights into an ancestor’s time in uniform.

This guide explains what survives from both World Wars, how to access these records, and how to interpret them.

WWI Records: The "Burnt Series"

Of the 6.5 million British Army service records created during WWI, approximately 60% were destroyed during the Blitz in 1940. The surviving documents fall into two main groups:

 

  • WO 363 – "Burnt Series": Heavily damaged by fire and water.

  • WO 364 – Pension Records: For men discharged due to wounds or illness.

These records are held at The National Archives and are also digitized on Ancestry and Findmypast.co.uk.

WWII Records: Still Restricted

Most British Army WWII service records remain closed. However, you can request copies from the Ministry of Defence if:

 

  • The soldier died over 25 years ago.

  • You provide proof of death (e.g., certificate).

Apply for WWII records

Anatomy of a British Service Record

1. Attestation Form (Enlistment)

  • Name, date of birth, occupation

  • Physical description

  • Next of kin

2. Statement of Services

  • Unit assignments with dates

  • Promotions and transfers

  • Campaign history

3. Medical and Casualty Forms

  • Wounds, diseases, and treatments

  • Hospital admissions and evacuations

4. Disciplinary Notes

  • Charges (AWOL, insubordination)

  • Sentences and punishments

5. Discharge Details

  • Reason for discharge

  • Pension entitlement notes

Glossary of terms & abbreviations

T.O.S: Taken on Strength (added to unit)

S.O.S: Struck off Strength (removed from unit)

B.E.F: British Expeditionary Force

Depot: Home or training base

G.S.W: Gunshot Wound

C.C.S: Casualty Clearing Station

A.F.W. 123: Army Form W.123 (Medical Board)

BFH: British Field Hospital

Bn: Battalion

GSC: General Service Corp

OC: Officer Commanding

Class Z: Army Reserve

What is an attestation form?

A British Army attestation form is a formal document filled out and signed by a recruit upon entering the army. It serves as a declaration of their commitment to service, including swearing an oath of allegiance and providing personal information, including proof of identity and blood type. 

 

  • Formal Declaration:
    The form documents the recruit's decision to join the army and their commitment to serving the Crown. 
     
  • Oath of Allegiance:
    It includes the formal swearing of an oath of allegiance to the monarch, promising faithfulness and allegiance. 
     
  • Personal Information:
    The form gathers various personal details, such as name, address, date of birth, previous employment, and potentially even blood type. 
     
  • Proof of Identity:
    Recruits typically need to provide documents like passports or utility bills as proof of identity. 
     
  • Service Records:
    The completed form becomes a key part of the individual's service record, used to document their time in the army. 

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