Chris
O'Brien
"I
can't thank you enough for the work you have done for me. The detail you have
uncovered would have taken me ages to discover. Thank you especially for your
explanatory notes which have helped me find out more about Stephen, just one of
many who fought for our country but who was dear to those left behind. What
you found for me is most impressive."
Stephen Taylor
Update - March 2024
The research service is now closed.
202 comments:
1 – 200 of 202 Newer› Newest»Hello Paul, I'm trying to find out anything I can about my grandfather, Thomas Whittaker who served in the Lancshire Fusiliers during WW1.
I have a copy of his Short Service attestation, in which he enlisted for the duration.
His age is 35. His Army Number is 12398, and he enlisted about 28 November 1914, and he was assigned to the 13th Bn.
If you can help me with and other information, I would be much obliged.
Terry Whittaker
Hello Terry, this man does have surviving papers. Have you seen them all? He was discharged in 1915. I don't know that there is anything I can help you with over and above this but do let me know if that is not the case.
Paul
Hello, could you give an example of what you're able to find out about the average soldier for your paid service? What records do you check? And can you find out about their POW history too?
The records I check depends on the particular task, but I will check all relevant sources. If you have a specific query please drop me a line at the address above and I'll tell you whether I can help or not.
Hi i am trying to find out about my grandfather who enlisted under age. From Ancestry.co.uk research I am assuming his service record was one of those destroyed in blitz. However I have his service numbers and am surprised to find he served in Royal Welsh Fusiliers - he came from West Yorks! Do you think there will be anything you can find out about reason for this and dates/battles he served etc? Thanks
Please drop me a line at the email address above, including your grandfather's regimental numbers, and I'll let you know what I can provide.
Paul
Hi Paul,
I am researching a 4039 3rd Dragoon Man James Simpson Reid, and with this regimental number it appears that he joined just before the Boer War. Unfortunately through the Generations records on him have been fragmented/lost with his Rels in Australia and other Countries. Through old letters their appears in WWI
DEAL ? 10188 Pte J Reid RM.
I see that there is a Deal in Kent UK, but don't understand what RM stands for.
Thanking you
Alan Kitchen
Sydney Australia
It's a Royal Marines number, Alan, and that' what the RM stands for. There was, and still is probably, a Royal Marines barracks at Deal.
Paul
Hello Paul,
We have an inscribed silver tipped stick for A. Jacobs, who had been in the 17th Lancers, dated 1907. We have done some research into his Military history, but have no idea who he was. We would love to find out more about this soldier, and also to try and solve the mystery of how it came into my grandparents possession. Is it possible to find out where he was born/lived etc just from this little information? Many thanks for any help you can give.
Re A Jacobs, it would be a case of checking through medal rolls, service records and possibly army lists in the hope of finding a match on that name. Not an easy task, but I can't think of any other way that it could be done.
Hello,
I am trying to source any additional info on Edward Broderick ( also recorded as Edward George) He was a member of 2nd Batt Connaught Rangers Private 5259.
I have records of both his King & Queens medals from the Second Boer War. I also have a record of his belonging returned to his sister following his death in 1904. I also have a copy of his death certificate from India.
I wonder if there are attestation or service records pertaining to this Private that have survived or have I seen all that is possible. Look forward to hearing from you.
Re Edward Broderick, I don't believe a service record survives. He would have served with the 1st Battalion CR in South Africa, but was subsequently posted to the 2nd Battalion as indicated on the KSA roll). There is undoubtedly more that can be researched for him; please drop me a line: paulcanixon@yahoo.co.uk if you want to progress this.
Hi Paul
A quick query. I am doing some research into 8471 L/Cpl Ernest Walker 2nd Royal Berks who was KIA on 1/7/1916. There is a militia record for a 7687 Pte Ernest Walker on FMP who transferred to the regular army. My hunch its the same man. Did men who transferred into the regular forces keep their old no or get a new one. Can you let me know Many thanks Trevor
He'd have been given a new number, Trevor.
Hi Paul.
My husband's great uncle George Godley (service no 6392) was in the 1st Battalian Coldstream Guards. He was a reservist who was called back to the colours in 1914 and survived the retreat from Mons. In late 1915 he was seconded to Talbot house with the Rev Tubby Clayton. I have a copy of his army record and I have looked through the war record of the battalian, but I have not found any record of his secondment. Do you have any ideas of anywhere else I could look? Thank you
Hello sir, looking for info on lance corporal c steele 4423 durham light infantry and in particular was he a deserter? If so its my great great grandfather and i would be interested in anything you can find on him. Thanks
I'm sorry, I can find nobody with that name/number combination for the DLI.
hi Paul
i am looking for details on my great grandfather John Feeney. I have his WW1 medals and can find his medal card (WO 372/7/36548) however i can find no other details of his service. Does this mean they are lost and no further details can be found?
John Feeney born 1880 Burtonwood, Lancashire. Lived in warrington. Kings Royal Rifle Corps R-8493 and Devonshire Regiment 54781.
Thanks
Helen
In all probability, yes, although there is much that can be gleaned from the regimental numbers so all is not completely lost. Please drop me a line via the RESEARCH tab if you would like to know more about pursuing this angle.
Hi Paul
I am trying to find out if Lawrence Connolly RDF #22151, born Navan Co Meath, who died in France on 16th August 1916, is my Grand Uncle Lawrence Connolly born in Co Meath on 26th August 1873. It is part of family history that one of our grand uncles joined the British Army.
Frank, I'd need to research him. I don't have that information to hand.
Paul offers a great service....HIGHLY RECOMMENDED....DM
David, many thanks; I was pleased to be able to assist you.
Paul
Hi Paul,
Interesting blog! I'm a bit puzzled about the military background of my g-great grandfather. The only information I have on him (James Law) is that he may have joined up at the Hulme Barracks (near his home). I understand that these barracks were platooned by the Royal Welsh Light (dragoons) of which James was. He was also in the Army where he served in India during a secondment to the Nagpur Railway, rifle volunteers where he made lieutenant. James was wounded (approx 1902) at Koster River, South Africa during the Second Boer War. Thanks in advance, Vanessa
He possibly has a summary of service in WO 76 at The National Archives. If you would like me to explore research options please follow the instructions on this page.
Hi Paul,
I am currently researching my great grandfather Private John Horrigan for a history project at my school. I discovered that he was taken as a prisoner of war at the battle of Hulluch, but am unsure of where he was taken. Would you have that record? Thanks.
Hi, i'm looking for any additional information regarding my G-Grandfather Henry (Harry) Albert Parsons.
The only information I currently have is that he was in the Worcestershire Regiment 38642 ACQM Sgt and the Dorsetshire Regiment 8748 ACQM Sgt. These were gleaned from his post WW1 medal papers, his marriage certificate and his childrens baptism records, however as I can find no service records for WW1 I suspect they were unfortunately destroyed.
I also know that he served 12 years in the Dorset Regiment during the Boer war, where he was present at 2 campaigns, was wounded twice and received 2 medals, however I can find trace of him for this period. Any leads would be greatly appreciated
Hazel, please drop me a line. Visit the RESEARCH tab on this blog.
Anonymous - Re John Horrigan
Please check this website: http://grandeguerre.icrc.org/. I do not have any information on this man.
Hi just found a medal that says A.S Reid A&s Highlanders 2050.Any info would be great!.
Alexander Reid, 9th (TF) Battalion. If you'd like me to research him more, please visit the RESEARCH tab.
Hi Paul, just done some research on my Gr,Grandfather David Flynn. Born 1875 B,ham. What was Intresting about him was he joined the Juke of Cornwalls light Infrenty in 1891 aged 16yrs old. & served in Africa. India & has king & queens clap medals. Then home in 1902 & then joined up with the Royal munster fusliers 1st garrison & died in Italy in 1918 aged 43ys of age. He was born in Birmingham Midlands. But his father was galway born. My question is would have they allowed him to join up in 1891 aged 16. Or is it possible he lied abt his age? Find
He could have joined as a boy from the age on 14 but it was equally possible he could have lied about his age. You wouldn't know for sure unless you had access to his attestation papers.
I am researching Drummer William Cook 5th Battalion Yorks and Lancs Regiment gassed and died 19th December 1915. Husband of Margaret (King) married 1913 and father to Evelyn born 1914. Number 1457 I believe. If no service / pension records exist (have looked on ancestry) is there any other archive to look for further documentation and/or information/photos?? Many thanks Karen
Karen, not as far as I know, although there will be a medal card, medal rolls, soldiers' effects entry, Soldiers Died in The Great War entry, census returns etc that will all help you piece together more information, plus information on CWGC etc. My data would ascertain when he enlisted.
Consider setting up a one page website - or blog - where you can publish information about him and which will be picked up by search engines and could, in due course, lead people to contact you with information.
Good luck
Paul
Hello, I am looking for information on Frank Aubrey Rawlings 20th L.A.S.S. Territorial Army, Royal Engineers (Light Aeroplane Squadron Searchlight Company). I think he served in the UK throughout WW1 and possibly served on searchlights at Scapa Flow. I have a lot of photographs and army postcards.
Can you help please?
Mike, can you drop me a line to paulcanixon@gmail.com. Do you have his regimental number on any of the cards?
Hi Paul, I hope that you can help clear something up. I recently came into possession of a Service Bible relating to James Arthur Cotterill, Regimental Number 32321. His year Of Birth was 1898 and he was aged 19 on his date of death, which was 12 Oct 1917 . James was Private in the South Staffordshire Regiment when he died. However, I can see that he was also registered as formerly Regimental Number 32420, North Staffs Regt. Is there a way to clarify this please? Best Regards Andy
I don't think there's any mystery here, Andy. He simply appears to have served in both regiments, transferring from one to the other.
Hi Paul, I am researching my Great Grandfather - 18955 Private John Ashton, West Yorkshire Regiment, who was KIA at the Bluff on 2nd March 1916 whilst seconded to the 17th Division Trench Mortars. I have a lot of info already regarding medal entitlements, etc. I am interested in discovering which Battalion he actually joined / served with but his service record is not available (destroyed). CWGC and Soldiers Died state 1st Battalion West Yorks, but I have a photo showing 1/5th battalion. Can you tell me from his number when and which battalion he joined ? He enlisted in Ripon I believe (he lived there). Best Regards, Tony
Tony, please drop me a line to paulcanixon@gmail.com.
Hi, I am trying to research my Grandfather, Thomas Richardson. He was in RFA and his number was 18681. I have him enlisting in the Territorials in 1923 number 752712. He served in RFA for 5 years 207 days. If you could add anything to this it would be much appreciated. Many Thanks Pam
You need to contact he MoD, Pam. Records post 1920 are not yet in the public domain. Have a look here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/requests-for-personal-data-and-service-records
Hi, does that mean he (Thomas Richardson) can only be researched under his latter 1923 number? We are more interested in his earlier number 18681 for Royal Field Artillery. His service records for this period appear to be lost and my son would like to know when and where he served as he wishes to honour his memory during the centenary commemorations. Any help appreciated. Thanks Pam.
Pam, his earlier service records may well be with his later papers, which is why you'll need to contact the MoD. Paul
Hi Paul. I'm trying to research my great grandfather, and struggling. I have found his medal card, which states he was in 15th london regiment, 705282, 23rd London regiment, a/204954, and the ASC remounts, R/4/232361. I can't find his service record. There are no remarks and no info on which theatre of war he went. My dad says he thought he was at the Somme, but I can only assume but have no info on his transfer dates to the different regiments. Do you have any suggestions that may help me get a bit more info. He survived the war and had a 4th child, my grandfather who sadly died on the Derrycunihy on 24 June 1944. Rachel.
Rachel, thanks for commenting. In the absence of a service record, the next best route is to work out when he joined the different regiments by looking at when the regimental numbers would have been issued. This can be done, with patience, or by dropping me a line via the RESEARCH tab if you wanted to commission this research.
Paul
Hi
Albert Henry Gookey (1889-1926) - 4th Middlesex Regiment Regimental Number: L/11184 (joined 1906 aged 17). We know that he became a POW and was held in Germany, is there anyway of knowing precisely which camp or camps he was held at?
Thanks, Mick Gookey
(ps see THE GOOKEY SURNAME on facebook for other research to GOOKEYs in WW1)
Have you checked the ICRC website? http://grandeguerre.icrc.org/
Thanks Paul, didn't know that site existed, some great information
Good afternoon Paul, I am researching my great granddad war history.
I was told the following:
First name(s) Selwyn
Last name Ratledge
Service number 316754, 651957
Rank Private
Corps Northumberland Fusiliers, Labour Corps
Service record Soldier Number: 316754, Rank: Private, Corps: Northumberland Fusiliers
Service record 2 Soldier Number: 651957, Rank: Private, Corps: Labour Corps
What I would like to know what battalion was he with when in service please
Paul
316754 looks like a TF number to me: 21st Provisional Battalion, later 35th Battalion. Also see here: http://www.longlongtrail.co.uk/army/regiments-and-corps/the-british-infantry-regiments-of-1914-1918/northumberland-fusiliers/
Paul
Thanks for the prompt reply.
Hi Paul,
I'm trying to trace my great grandfather's service;
Name - Titus Lowe
Service no. - 14606
Rank - private
Regiment - South Staffordshire
I'm afraid that's all I have. At this moment I don't even know what battalion/unit he was in.
Any assistance gratefully received.
Nick
He served with the 9th Bn, Nick. Pls drop me a line if you would like more assistance. See the research tab.
Thanks for the quick response.
I was thinking of approaching the South Staffs Regiment in Lichfield to see what they can provide. Do you have the potential to find out more info than they could offer?
Cheers
Nick
I don't know what they have, Nick, but try them first and see what they come up with. In my experience, unless the regimental museum has surviving enlistment registers, I can certainly hold my own. But see what they say.
Thanks for your help.
I may be back in touch later on for further in/research that you do.
Nick
Hi Paul I am hoping you can help me I am trying to trace as much information about my great granddad but have no family to help me. All I no is he was born in Scotland but ran away from home on numerous occasions to join the army in England. Eventually he joined the 8th Hussars as a farrier No 314829 his residence at the time of his marriage was Cavalry Barracks, Fulford road, York this was on 27 February 1926, he was 31 years old. I don't really no much else about his life before he married my great grandmother.
Regards Tracy Brook
Tracy, you will need to contact the MoD. Have a look here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/requests-for-personal-data-and-service-records
Hello Paul - I am doing some WW1 research on my grandfather Stanley Riccalton who was from Wallsend-on- Tyne and the only record can find for someone of that name is in the Dorsetshire regiment number 28111. Slightly puzzled as no connection with that part of the country. Is there any further information about his war record?
Graeme, it was not unknown for men to join county regiments which were miles away from what might be considered their local regiment - particularly with later enlistments - and so I wouldn't rule this man out. I couldn't see that a service record survives for this man though and so you'll have difficulty proving categorically that this is him.
Paul
Hi Paul - OK thanks very much for your help and speedy response.
Hi I am trying to track down details for John Davis who I believed served with the 3rd Gloucester Regiment. His wife was Johanna Blanch.
I know his wife and children were born in Waterford, Ireland and this is where he married. But I have reason to believe that John was born in Bristol. I was hoping his records would confirm this and also help me to find out how he met Johanna in Ireland. Please let me know if this is something you could help with?
Please drop me a line and include known or approximate years of birth or dates of service. The 3rd Gloucester Regiment was the Special Reserve battalion and so he must have been living in (or within spitting distance of) the county to have served with that particular battalion. You'll appreciate that John Davis is a very common name, hence the need for as much information as you can muster.
Paul
Dear Paul,I am trying to investigate the history of my grandfather Lt. Llewelyn Roberts, who was in the 11th Battalion of the South Wales Borderers, which I understand were formed at Brecon on 5 December 1914,
by the Welsh National Executive Committee, (David Lloyd George) and disbanded in France on 27 February 1918. Were they also part of the 38th Welsh Division formed by Prime minister David Lloyd George? I am trying to find photos of him and his battalion? I know he fought at Mametz Wood, but not much more. If you could help me in any way I would be most appreciative.
Mark
Matk, I believe there is a file for this man at The National Archives under reference: WO 339/23569. You can request this yourself and photograph the pages but iy you don;t have the time or inclination for this, please drop me a line: paulcanixon@gmail.com or paulcanixon@yahoo.co.uk.
Dear Paul
My grandfather Charles Henry Young joined 3rd DLI on 9 Dec 1915 and was placed in Reserves (a coal moner in poor health with wife and young son). He was called up in early 1918 and went into baracks in Doncaster initially.
His regimental number was 95608, 13th battalion DLI.
His demob account was paid in 3 instalments in Jan 1919.
Is it at all possible to find out anything about his service in 1918? He never spoke of it, so there was no family information at all, other than from the documents above which have been kept for 100 years.
Thank you so much for this wonderful blog which I found by accident having long given up hope of learning anything about his war year.
David Horton
Australia
hello Paul, i am trying to find records for my great great grandfather Pryse Lloyd, he was born on 13th of august 1881 in Llananno, Radnorshire. it seems likely that he followed his brother Maurice Lloyd into the 121st royal field artillery (38th welsh) in the later part of world war one. im thinking of going to the royal welsh museum in Brecon. i have not been able to find anything yet on the available websites, please can u point me in the right direction.
Fiona, start with the basics and identify his medal index card and medal roll entries. Search for these on Ancestry and search for service records on Ancestry and Findmypast. The museum is unlikely to be able to help, I would have thought, and they won't hold service records which are all in WO 363 and WO 364 - assuming they survive.
David Horton
Thank you for your comment and your compliments. Unfortunately I could see no service reocrd and no medal information for this man (searching for him using his name and the regimental number as the search criteria). If he did serve overseas, the suggestion would be that he served with a different regimental number, but at this stage I can see nothing else for him that would help you build a better picture.
Looking for Stephen Collins Connaught rangers and transfers to royal Irish he sign up 14-10-1914 and was discharged 31-3-1920 I think his number is 4504 any more info on him please
He was also 672, Royal Irish Fusiliers, Claire. It would be possible to research him more fully but a service reocrd does not appear to survive for him.
Hi Paul, trying to trace any additional military service information on Arthur Thomas Taylor, 2nd Battalion, Ox & Buck, reg number 8967. I know he died at battle of loos 25th Sept 1915, I also have his medal record, but that's it.
Hello Andy, there would undoubtedly be more information that could be researched and added here. Please drop me a line to paulcanixon@yahoo.co.uk and we can take it from there.
Hi Paul
I started researching my family and I have very little information to work with. I found an old photo of my great grandfather wearing what looked like some form of military uniform. I can't find anything specific on ancestry and any searches bring up alot of records as he has a common name. What do you recommend
His name was Thomas Layman Daniels born in 1886 and residing in Hinton, Northants.
Many thanks
Dominic
By all means drop me a line with the photograph, Dominic and I'll see if that provides any clues. Email paulcanixon@yahoo.co.uk
Paul
I'd be grateful for any information that would help me understand the role that my maternal grandfather played in WW1. I managed to find his name and other particulars on WW1 Service Medal and Award Rolls, but little else. Here is what I have:
Name - Leslie Fotherby Dixon, born Leeds, Yorkshire 1890-03-14
Served - 1914 until 1919-03-14
Rank - Sergeant
Regiment - Household Cavalry and Cavalry of the Line
Regimental # - 260003
Sub Unit - Corps of Hussars. 1 Co of LY 226 and 301
Previous Units - 1 Co of LY Sgt 2658
John Bowen john.gordon.bowen@gmail.com
Hello Paul,
I wonder if you can help me solve two puzzles about my grandfather? His name was Henry Albert Ellner and he enlisted into B Coy of the wiltshire Regiment on 30 December 1898, Regimental number 5202. He was given a section "D" discharge from the 2nd Bttn on 29 december 1915. What is a section "D"?
The second puzzle is more complicated. He was discharged from the 2nd Bttn but family stories circulating well after his death say that he spent time in India guarding Boer War prisoners. As far as I know the 2nd bttn were in South Africa at that time. Is it possible he initially joined the 1st Bttn and was transferred to the 2nd Battn around 1914?
I hope you can help.
Allan Ellner
Allan E
He probably signed up in 1898 for 12 years which would have meant that he would have left the army in 1910. However, he appears to have transferred to section D Army Reserve which would have given him four more years on the Reserve. It was towards the end of this service that Britain went to war meaning that he would have been recalled to the colours. He would also have had a further year added to the four years meaning that he was eligible for discharge on the 29th December 1915, exactly seventeen years to the day since he had originally joined up: 12 years + four years + one year = 17 years.
It would be possible to research his likely service during this time but that's a chargeable service; please email me if interested.
Hello Paul, I was hoping to attach a photo of the back of a WW1 postcard I have. It has the following information:
this is fred's address and his photo
M.2./156830.Pte. Fred Harwood
603. Coy. M.T.A.I.C.
Floriana Malta
The photo is of him beside a truck
I am trying to figure out where he is from. I would like to get this picture postcard back to a member of his family. There are many Fred Harwoods.
I was thinking the M2/15 was a date but the M2 may be the corps.
So many variables!! Any help would be appreciated
Thank you in advance
Gail Odber
Hello Gail
Fred Harwood served in the Army Service Corps and M2/ is part of his regimental number. I can't see that a record survives for him and, as you say, there are many men with that name. You are now the custodian of the photo but if you want me to publicise it, please send me a digital copy and I'll do so - mail to paulcanixon@{gmail.com
Paul
Hi Paul
I am trying to find parental details for my late husband's father Charles Aubrey Bolton. He reached the rank of Sergeant in the Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire Regiment - The Sherwood Foresters. I have his service number 1831 and Medal Index Cards Transcription from FindMyPast and National Archives.
Unfortunately there is no mention of parentage.
Is there anywhere else I can search to learn more about him and hopefully his father and mother's names?
He was very secretive possibly as a result of being injured in France and suffering shellshock or post traumatic stress disorder.
Thank you
Lene Bolton
Hello Lene
If you have access to findmypast it will simple be a case of checking through birth and census records to try and find him. Do you know approximately when he was born? The names of any siblings? Which part of the country he was from? All of this information will be helpful when you are searching. Also consider contacting the Westren Front Association to see if they hold pension details for him:
https://www.westernfrontassociation.com/all-about-the-wfa/wfa-news-events/pension-records.html
Paul
Hello Paul, I'm researching some relatives of ours (3 brothers, who were my husband's great uncles) who tragically all died at the Sommme within 3 weeks of each other. I can give you quite a bit we've found, though some information (from census info) is contradictory realting to date of births. I'm happy to research any possible london/home counties written records myself if you could point me in the right direction. We'd also love some photos as we have none. Two were with the Middlesex Regiment [one private one (non) commissioned officer, one reciord says Seargent one says Corporal] are commemorated on Thiepval (where my daughter is currently working as an intern for CWGC) and one at Bauomont Hamel.
1. Charles Rampton (G/9645 on Thiepval), 1st Bn Middlesex Regiment, date of death 14-08-16
Info on London War memorial
Extract from date of death 14-08-16 @ https://firstworldwaronthisday.blogspot.co.uk/2016/08/636-died-on-this-day-mon-14081916.html under Thiepval Memorial -
G/9645 Private CHARLES RAMPTON 1st Bn. Middlesex Regiment
Details on London War Memorial Website
http://www.londonwarmemorial.co.uk/view_profile.php?id=42653&limit=50&offset=0&sort=&a=Westbourne%20Park&f=First%20Name&s=Last%20Name&r=Rank&u=Unit&b=&d=Date%20Of%20Death#sthash.aku6Qree.k0hVc5ls.dpbs
Census indicates year of birth as 1883 which ties in with listed age at death of 33.
2. Thomas Rampton (SR/3564 on Thiepval), 13th Bn Middlesex Regiment, date of death 31-08-16. Listed as Serjeant
extract from date of death 31-08-16 @ https://firstworldwaronthisday.blogspot.co.uk/search?q=31%2F08%2F1916 under first Thiepval Memorial listing (245 fallen) -
SR/3564 Serjeant THOMAS RAMPTON "B" Coy. 13th Bn. Middlesex Regiment
http://www.londonwarmemorial.co.uk/view_profile.php?id=37130&limit=20&offset=0&sort=&a=Lived%2FBorn%20In&f=thomas&s=Rampton&r=Rank&u=Unit&b=&d=Date%20Of%20Death#sthash.8iP1dAux.fcIRQ5co.dpbs
Listed as Age 31 and rank as Corporal (north Kensington would be the right town of residence)
Bizarrely census shows his year of birth as 1891 which make him more like 25 years old at death
3. James Rampton (P/252 at Beaumont Hamel), 13th Bn Middlesex Regiment, date of death 31-08-16.
Extract from date of death 03-09-16 @ https://firstworldwaronthisday.blogspot.co.uk/search?q=03%2F09%2F1916 under HAMEL MILITARY CEMETERY, BEAUMONT-HAMEL (85)
P/252 Rifleman RAMPTON 16th Bn. Rifle Brigade
http://www.londonwarmemorial.co.uk/view_profile.php?id=37131&limit=20&offset=0&sort=&a=Lived%2FBorn%20In&f=james&s=Rampton&r=Rank&u=Unit&b=&d=Date%20Of%20Death#sthash.qrg0aJsg.uIg0OhzE.dpbs
No age at date of death (and we do not have a date of birth as he wasn't listed on the census showing your=ngest chld born 1897. Family folkore says he signed up underage, so may well have been born post 1897.
The London War Memorial online site gives quite a bit of information about the circumstances in which they each died.
Perhaps you can let us know whether you can help us find out mnore (and if so, what sort of information and cost estimate) or point us in the right direction to uncover military records etc. I've only found access to records after 1920 so far. Thanks Joanna x
Thanks for your interesting post, Joanna. Please drop me a line to paulcanixon@yahoo.co.uk and I'll get back to you. Paul
Hello Paul,
Great site thank you!
My Grandfather was P/2917 L/Cpl HEBDEN, Christopher. Enlisted 29/12/1915. BEF 14/04/1916 to 08/11/1918; evac'd UK 09/11/1918 with "Influenza" Class Z Reserve 25/02/1919. Shown as 20/05/1916 30 Div . and "9th Company" on 'Burnt Records'.
Interesting that you have P/2919 listed also! We have several squad photos - might even have your chap on them !!
Christopher Hebden had previous service in Scarborough Police and Monmouthshire Constabulary plus years of experience with horses, prior to joining up.
Please let me know if you'd like more details - including sight of photos.
Yes please, Mike. Please drop me a line to paulcanixon@yahoo.co.uk
Hi Paul,
I am researching my Great Grandfather,
I know he was called William George Daye, he was a private in the Army Service Corps, having enlisted in 1914 his number is 195348 and I have his medals but I can't find his enlistment record, there is also a family rumour that he was a POW in the later part of the war. Can you help with my investigation?
Rhiannon Elizabeth Daye
Have a look at the ICRC site to see if there is a PoW record for him, Rhiannon: https://grandeguerre.icrc.org/. The medal index card and medal rolls will tell you something about his service but that's probably pretty much all you'll get.
Paul
Hi
My great uncle died of wounds in 1918. Is it possible to find out what the wounds were and where he sustained the?. Any help on where I should start looking would be appreciated
Hi Paul,
I am researching my family tree.
A relation of mine married Henry Knowland in Spring Hill, Riverstown, Cork in 1902. They lived in Cork city and had a family. His occupation was porter.
However, previously Henry married Mary Coakley in Mallow Registry Office in 1890. His occupation is described as 1st Battalion Middlesex regiment, based at Buttevant County Cork.
From researching I believe his service no is 2220.
I believe he was still married to Mary when he married Margaret as I can find no death certificate for her.
Any further information on Henry I would appreciate.
Mary Scanlon
Barry - probably not, unless he has a service record in WO 363 which details this OR there is a record in MH 106 (at the National Archives) OR there is a report in a local newspaper.
Mary - please contact me via the RESEARCH tab if you would like me to research this man.
Hi Paul
There wasn't a question in my tweet. I'm obviously very new to twitter and not getting on very well with the character restrictions.
I saw the photograph on my home feed and was interested enough to join the discussion.
At this stage I'm not even sure if that is an acceptable approach, i.e. jumping in on others conversations. I'm sure I will learn very quickly. Any guidance on twitter etiquette would be welcome
The Tweet made was just to make a comment on the photograph I'd seen about the cap badges. I am by know means an expert on these matters. Just makin a suggestion of the 6th rifles or Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry and made a comment about the cap badge being very small so I gave it 70 to 30 percentage in favour of the Rifles.
I see by the other comments to that photograph, that the answer is well covered anyway.
I'm hoping to engage people and learn. So I hope I can pick up the twitter lingo very quickly as I don't want to annoy and turn people off.
Here's hoping I've not been too much of a pain
Nick Laband
Trench Laband Twitter
All understood, Nick, no problem about jumping in. Looks as though the battalion is the 11th County of London, and I have a name for the officer who was in the London Regt so it looks as though it is coming together.
Re Twitter, I think just jump in with both feet. people will follow you if they feel you have something to say - or if they feel they want to say soemthing to you.
Paul
Thanks for the understanding and of course I will continue to engage. Ill just work on my twitter construction.
I'm pleased you have found a name for the man. I find it exhilarating and numerous other emotions when you find out something. Doesn't even have to be a relative. Absolutely brilliant. And of course we've all learned something new re the cap badge.
The very reason why I want to get involved. I love the photos, That's why I'm researching, writing a blog about Alfred Reynolds L/5345, creating a web site, researching the 4th Battalion the Leicestershire Regiment etc. etc.; Well you know how it is.
Once again thanks
Regards
Nick
Paul provided an unbelievable service.
I didn't have too much detail I could provide and even that was sketchy but after a few emails which paul was very quick to respond to in order to discuss various avenues,the information I received back surpassed my expectations. Prior enlistment info, training, regimental records, medal records, war diaries and much more. Best of all was the written file that contained his story from start to sad ending and considered conclusions. Even showing transcripts of how much his family were paid upon death were fascinating.
Many thanks for your help Paul, it's much appreciated.
Glenn Jackson
It was my pleasure to help you, Glenn. Many thanks for the feedback.
Paul
Hi Paul,
Researching my Gt Grandfather William Lindsay B.1872 Burntisland, Fifeshire, Scotland. He was living in Edinburgh I believe when enlisting into Army although? I have no details other than a photo of him with two other soldiers. I found military records for one of the other soliders in the photo, he was in 2 Dragoons, Royal Scots Greys 2658 elisted 1884 so I'm hoping my Gt Grandfather William Lindsay was also in 2 Dragoons RSG - I cannot find anything on him althought this could be down to spelling errors or burnt documents. Do you think you would be able to trace anything even a military number. at the age of 19 he was on the 1891 census living in Edinburgh, occupation Railway Porter. He was married in Leith, Edinburgh 1898 and had first child Elizabeth in 1899.. let me know if you think you can help. Thanks Kind Regards Michael Lindsay
I found Paul online and after reading others comments about how professional and thorough he is in his methodical approach to research . A few emails and following a very reasonable fee , Paul provided us with documents and a lovely very sensitive report about my great uncle Leslie Pope who served in the oxford and bucks infantry in 1918 . We now have the information we were seeking and also have the location of his resting place in Aire and plan to visit next year on what will be his and the nations centenary. Thankyou very much Paul for all your help and hope my and others reviews reassure others on their quest to research lost family who served in the Great War .
It was my pleasure to assist you, Neil, and thank you for taking the time to post your thanks on this blog.
Hi Paul
I'm researching my GT grandfather Thomas Lynch who appears on the 1911 cencus for the 2nd Battalion South Wales Borderers serving in South Africa. Do you know if his military records may have survived? Any help you may be able to give me would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks Chris.
There does not appear to be a surving record for this man, Chris. How old was he in 1911?
Hi Paul thanks for your quick reply. He was 21 born 1891 in Newport wales.
Ok, thanks Chris. That rules out the man of the same name I saw with Boer War service wih this regiment then. I would guess he probably enlisted in 1908 and had been in India for maybe a year when the census was taken.
Thanks for your help Paul. Keep up the good work.
Hi there Paul
Do you know how I could go about researching a man who was a Staff Instructor in the Army Gymnastics Staff between 15-19. I am struggling to find any information in the Army records about him -
Robert Stenhouse Hanley born in West Derby 19/10/1887 and according to his Teacher Registration Certification he was in the Army as above. On the 1939 National Register there is a note at the side of his name - although hard to read I think it says the following - "Staff Sergeant Instructor" and a date I can't read followed by Army Gunner 111 STAFF..... Transferred to Reserve Staff (?) on demobilisation 1915- 19......
Having looked in the London Gazette with no joy I just wondered if you knew if the Gymnastics Staff were a Corp in their own right or attached to a Regiment. Thank you so much
Margaret
Hello,
my relative was in the war in 1939 from what it says online. His name was Wilfred Oakes and his Army Number was 4128704. Do you know how i can find any information on him regarding the war? i'm at a dead end at the moment..
thank you,
Lauren
Hello Paul,
I am trying to find army records of my grandfather. He was James Paterson Reid, formerly Paterson, born in 1896 in Aberdeen. He signed up in February 1913 in Aberdeen. It reads that he joined Th R.F.A.T. and that his number was 4134. So far I have discovered that he was kicked in the abdomen by men off duty and was hospitalised off and on until he was discharged in March 1915.
However in December 1916 when he marries Elsie Jane Adams in Aberdeen it clearly states on the marriage certificate that he was currently stationed in France and is a gunner for B Battallion in the Machine Gun Corps.
I cannot find any of his army records from 1916 onwards. I have been told that he got medals too, but still unable to find anything.
Surely if he was discharged unfit medically then why would Nr have been reinstated a year later? It is possible that he may have changed his name to James Walker as his birth father was a George Walker and he used that name in 1971 when he eventually married my grandmother (4 children later lol).
I would like to find out what he was up to in 1916 and whether he actually was in France as stated on his marriage certificate.
Best regards,
Julia
Lauren, please see the last paragraph on this blog post regarding WW2 records. You need top contact the MoD. Follow the link I give.
Julia, I'm confused as to how he can be stated to be in France on his marriage certificate (unless he married in France). My advice to you would be to make the most of Findmypast's free weekend of military records this weekend and scour what's online. But to have been in the army again in 1916 suggests he must have re-enlisted.
Hello Paul,
I have just found my grandfathers rein listener papers. He was in the MGC & his number was 22617. It seems he went to France in October 1915.
Thanks,
Julia
Hi paul. i found a ww1 british war medal how much cna you tell me from the scripture on the sides?
I may be able to tell you when the man joined, if he had served with another refgiment before, whether he survived the war; quite a lot in all probability. But please see the RESEARCH tab on this blog.
Hello Paul.
I have found some records for ,y grandfather. It reads "See or Sec No 1-329 RFA Gnr 2229, also Durham LI , 44720 France 19/10/15.
James P REID.
Best regards,
Julia
Paul,
Are you able to find pictures? The reason i ask i have just obtained my great grandfathers WW1 medals and would like some information and any pictures if possible. If this can be done i will email you the information i have later today.
Regards
Kevinp84 please see here regarding photos: http://armyancestry.blogspot.co.uk/2016/12/finding-photo-of-your-british-military.html
Hi Paul,
My name is John and I am researching my Great Grandfather.
Victor Elton SCOTT
Sergeant
785
1/4th Northumberland Fusiliers
Hexham A Company.
KIA 26 April 1915
St Julien (2nd battle of Ypres)
Mentioned on the Menin Gate.
I cannot find his service records, I fear they were burnt as many were in the blitz of WW2. I have found all of the 'relatively easy' information; medal rolls, CWGC mentions, memorials, a photo, soldier's effects, death cert, newspaper clippings, etc. I also have Alan Grint's excellent “The Faith and Fire within".
I am seeking 2 things:
A group photo of the Hexham (A company) and Corbridge (E Company) 1/4th NF (Territorials). Do you know if any exist?
Any additional info might you be able to discover?
Cheers
John
Without checking my database it lookslike an early 1908/1909 enlistment into this TF battalion. As with my answer to the previous enquirer on this post, please see here regarding photos. http://armyancestry.blogspot.co.uk/2016/12/finding-photo-of-your-british-military.html
Hi Paul,
Just like to say a big thanks for your work on researching the First World War army records of my wife's grandfather Harry Blundell.
Although I've done a fair amount of family research myself, this is a very specialised field and your work saved me a huge amount of time and effort – and I probably would not have found out as much anyway.
So, anyone out there who is investigating ancestors involved in the Great War – I would strongly recommend getting an expert to help you out – and there is probably no better place to start than with Paul: he's quick to respond and his rates are very reasonable.
Thanks again, Simon Thompson
Simon, it was my pleasure to help you, thanks for posting this comment.
I am looking for information regarding my Grand Father Andrew J Farrington Service number 9666 who served in the RDF or the Connaught Rangers during WWI
Is there a data base or data that you can point me to
Thank you
Could you possibly help me with the research of my great grand father. Allan Matthew Hauxwell, I know he served in the Durham Light Infantry, his service number is listed as 7440.
Thank you, Ashley.
Hi Paul
Trying to found out more about this soldier:
Service No: 10284
Age: 26
Regiment/Service: Irish Guards, 2nd Bn.
Son of Thomas Wardlow, of 758, Harrison Avenue, Harrison, New Jersey, U.S.A.
Anything you can do for me?
Re 9666 Farrington, you can search for this man on my British Army Ancestors webiste: https://britisharmyancestors.co.uk/
Re 7440 Hauxwell; Ashley you can download his record from Findmypast. Follow this link: https://britisharmyancestors.co.uk/search-result/?q=7440+hauxwell
Re 10284 Wardlow, you should contact the Irish Guards direct as they still hold records. Google Irish Guards Archive.
D Phillips
41223 David Phillips Lance Corporal 1914 Norfolk Regiment. From his medal record it says 3/Bedf.r. Is that 3rd batalion?
Kind regards
Robert
Yes, 3/Bedf.r. = 3rd Bedfordshire Regt.
Hi Paul,
I'm trying to find some more information about Arthur Smith, Rifle Brigade, 6726,POW. Would your POW list contain any information and perhaps some address details. I have found the Red Cross listing but this only shows Winchester.
kind regards
Colin
My list shows "Depot, Winchester" as well, Colin.
Hi Paul
I’m researching info on my great great uncle Private Neil Steel 3500 5th Batt Cameron Highlanders. He was killed in action I believe on the 18th Oct 1916. I know his war grave is in the Warlencourt British Cemetary. Our family didn’t really know much about him and I was hoping to find out more... many thanks, Kevin
Hallo Paul,
I am trying to find information about my grandfather Patrick Quinn's WW1 service record. His last service number was G/107683 which apparently places him in the Fusilers? Any information would be greatfully received.
Regards
Mike
Hi Paul.
Do you know any of the names of the soldiers in your photo of the royal artillery please?
I would also be interested in finding out more about my great grandfathers service in Ww1 if you are able to help. Many thanks
The man far left is James Goodson and you can read about him here: http://worldwar1veterans.blogspot.com/2011/11/james-goodson.html. I don't know the namesof the other men.
Hi Paul
Can you find military photos of my great great grandfather he was in ww1 he was in royal inniskilling fusiliers if you can let me know
Thanks
K
Hello I am serving in the military and I am trying to find some information about my wife's great grandfather. He enlisted into the border regiment. The only thing we know is he left as a Lance corporal.
Lance corporal Frederick lascelles brown. Any advice on how I can gather information.
Re Lance-Corporal Frederick Lascelles Brown try running some searches on my British Army Ancestors website here: https://britisharmyancestors.co.uk/
@K re your 16th December comment, do have a look at mt British Army Ancestors website and in particular the opening paragraph on the About page: https://britisharmyancestors.co.uk/about-us/
Hi, we are trying to find information about the photo that was posted on this page of your blog. A source, date, and location would be appreciated. Thanks.
http://armyservicenumbers.blogspot.com/2018/09/royal-marines-other-rank-pows-1914.html
I bought the card many years ago and sold it in 2011. No further details known.
You list regimental numbers, but obviously with huge gaps. I note my Great Grandfather #1332 joined Feb 3, 1885 is not listed and also my Grandfather 10491 who joined in 1912 is not listed. They were both named Charles Flynn. Do you know why they were missed?
Oh dear, Charlie. You have completely missed the whole point of the blog. The numbers and dates published are to provide guidance regarding the dates on which the intervening regimental numbers must have been issued. How on earth would I be able to publish every single regimental number issued and the date on which it was issued? That information simply does not survive.
Hi Paul,
We are trying to locate my Great Grandfathers grave which would be in Belgium as he was killed in action in the 1st World War. His surname was Conliffe and he was in the Cheshire Regiment and I am afraid that’s all we have. If you can find us any information it would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Christine
Re CONLIFFE / Cheshire Regt. I could find no man of this name with this regiment on the CWGC website, although there are two men called CUNLIFFE who served with this regt. If he died during WW1 he will be on the CWGC website somewhere: https://www.cwgc.org/
Hi Paul, I am trying to research my grandfather & Great grandfather:
William Williams, No. 2408 Military Provo Staff Corps, born 1882
Richard Albert Williams, RAMC 7403266
Are these people you would be able to find details on?
Many thanks,
Justin
Hi Paul, I am trying to find some information about my fathers uncle and guardian who faught in France in world war 1 in the Royal Warickshires his name was Bertie Horton and he was born in 1886 in Birmingham he survived the war and died in the 1970s.I cannot seem to fond any information on him why would that be. Regards
He may be one of these men but I could find nothing when I searched for an exact match on BERTIE HORTON: https://britisharmyancestors.co.uk/search-result/?q=*Bert*+warwick*+horton
Hi Paul,
I'm trying to find out information on my great great grandfather. His name was John Killen and was a Lance Corporal: Depot Highland Light Infantry. He married Sarah Ann O'Neill Aug 6, 1885 at St. Andrews in Dublin Ireland. In the records it states his residence as Beggars Bush Barracks. I'm not sure how soon after they married, they ended up in Hamilton Barracks in Edinborough as their daughter (my great grandmother's birth certificate states her name Margaret Ann Killen b Nov 29/1888 at Hamilton signed William G.T. Ray Asst. Register. From there I'm not sure what transpired. The only information my grandmother (since deceased) knew about her mother was that her father died when she was young. I'm not sure of the circumstance but my great great grandmother Sarah Ann and my great grandmother Margaret Ann ended up in Belfast (I'm not certain if that was John Killen's home where family lived) or why they ended up t here since Sarah Ann listed her family living in Wicklow. From there Sarah Ann met a James Ardis and they had six children all of which are on the 1901 and 1911 census. I found it interesting that my great grandmother was listed only on the 1911 census as a "boarder" and listed as Roman Catholic while the rest of the family was Presbyterian. On John and Sarah's marriage certificate entry it states his parents as Thomas and Jane Killen (dead) and Sarah O'Neill parents as Michael and Kate O'Neill. I'm hoping that you can clear up this family mystery. Thank you in advance.
Hi Paul
I'm doing some research on my great grandfather and his possible military service in WW1.
All I have is his name - Thomas Willis Elliott, born in 1898 in County Durham. He was a coalminer and signed up after the war had begun, served in an infantry regiment and was demobbed in 1919.
Is that enough to search?
Hi Paul
I'm trying to find some information about my Great Grandfather
Albert Napier Wallace, born 1886 (thereabouts) in Gillingham, Kent.
I've seen that he served in the East Kent Regiment (Buffs)
Not sure of any other information
Kind regards
Nikki
Justin, re your message of 10th Feb, my apologirs for the delay. If you can find the men on my https://britisharmyancestors.co.uk/ site then the answer would be "yes".
Re John Killen if you can find him on https://britisharmyancestors.co.uk/ or in medal rolls then I could certainly help, but this would be a research project.
Re Thomas Willis Elliott, we have communicated separately about this. Thanks for posting.
Re Albert Napier Wallace. Nikki, this man has some surviving papers which you can access from here: https://britisharmyancestors.co.uk/search-result/?q=a*+n*+wallace+east+kent
Note that these are on Findmypast and so you will need to pay Findmypast to actually view these.
Hi Paul,
I recently came across some information on my great grandfather, David Walker. Seems he received a medal of some sort for "persevering to safe an officers life". I was wondering if there was a way to get further info on the facts of the medal. He was with Regiment 3,3rd Battalion Scottish Rifles, Regimental Number 5657. He enlist in 1900 at the age of 18 and I believe served in the Boer War.
Thank You
Hi
when out metal dectecting found a Khedives's Star dating from 1880s reading up on this the individual whould sometimes have there number stamped on it,
It has been stamped with RIR 682281
would you be able to trace this
Regards Paul wilkin
The number is too long to be a regimental number for the Royal Irish Regiment (or potentially Royal Irish Rifles) and neither does the number 682281 return any results in the WO 100 medal rolls, I'm afraid.
Hi Paul, A difficult one. I have a photo of an ancestor in what appears to be dress uniform. The only other things I have are his name and date of Birth. Is there any way of someone identifying the uniform.
Raymond, please email me the photo and I'll take a look: paulcanixon@yahoo.co.uk
Hi, i'm sorry but on the research page I cannot see how to contact you by email, could you please tell me where the email link is?
Thank You
Paul Wilson
Paul, you can drop me a line to paulcanixon@yahoo.co.uk. The email is included (under Step 1, above) but maybe I need to make that clearer.
Hi Paul,
Forgive me if I'm being daft and misreading the info on this blog, but my great grandfather's two regimental numbers from the medal card don't seem to fit in with the ones listed. He's Tom Earnest Abson, Manchester Regiment no. 45146, and Rifle Brigade no. 39796. Can you work out from these when he enlisted in the Manchesters, and then transferred to the Rifle Brigade?
Hope you can help!
Many thanks,
Steve Hartley
Steve, the numbers you give are later issues than the ones covered on this blog. Nevertheless it would be possible to work out date of joining and dates of transfer. See http://armyservicenumbers.blogspot.com/p/research.html
hi, im looking for my 2nd great grandfather robert whanslaw. he was discharged because he was shell shocked.he also got gassed in the war and was ill for a time. he was in the duke of cornwalls. any more info is appreciated, especially a photo since we cant find one
hi Paul, I am looking for information on two Sherwood Foresters from world war 2. the first is Thomas Bell the second is Robert (Bob)Perry 4618520. The first is my grandfather the second is my wife's. We believe they were both 2nd battalion in Africa and they were both POWs. Any direction on this would be gratefully received
WW2. Please note that all Second World War and post 1920 service record enquiries should be addressed straight to the MoD which still holds the records. See the link on this page.
Hello Paul,
My name is Scott, and I live in Australia. Many years ago (late 70’s, early 80’s) my dad worked on a local Sydney council, and one day he came home with a WWI 1914/15 star medal he found with some rubbish he was clearing up. On the back it had Private J. Bond, regimental number 16478, Duke of Cornwalls Light Infantry.
Obviously I’m not related to him, but would like to find out what ever I can about him. I assumed he emigrated to Australia at some point, but I don’t even know what his first name is. All I’ve been able to find is a copy of his medal card (which doesn’t have much info on it), and I’m assuming some sort of dispatch note that has him and two other soldiers listed as dangerously ill from Malaria. I’ve found the service record for one of the other two, Private George William Port (it is listed as Pte G. Part), and in his service record it has him being reported as dangerously ill from Malaria on 24th September, 1917, so I’d assume J. Bond was reported at a similar date.
Any further information you could give me would be greatly appreciated (even if it’s just his first name!).
Best regards,
Scott
John (medal roll) Bond arrived overseas (France) 22 Sep 1915 as an orginal member of the 8th Bn. He only served overseas with the 8th DCLI but no service record survives.
Thanks Paul,
I appreciate your quick reply. At least I now have a first name for him.
Regards,
Scott.
hi Paul
I'm trying to find some information about my Grandfather Thomas Kavanagh and his brothers who fought in WW1. He had 5 brothers (maybe 6) who fought in the war. Only my grandfather Thomas and 1 brother (Christopher) survived. He was discharged after contracting Malaria. His regiment # was 27224 and his rank was Lance Corporal. From his record, it looks like he was discharged on 20/9/17. He enlisted on 28/5/15 or possibly 28/8/15. Any ideas on how to find out more about him and his brothers. Unfortunately, I don't know the names of the other 4 or 5 brothers, only that they all died. I've previously secured a copy of what I believe my grandfather's discharge papers.
Thanks
James Carey
Hello Paul,
I am researching a friend's great grandfather Percy Wesley born 1899.
Private 51633 Bedfordshire Regiment TR/9/4445 Training Reserve Battalion, 41131 Northants Regiment 59528 Suffolk Regiment and 611899 Royal Engineers.
he would only have been old enough to have fought towards the end of the war-can you tell me if it is possible to find out where he served ?
He survived the war and died in 1971.
I would be grateful for any further info.
thanks in advance Sandra
Hello Paul,
I am trying to find out in which company of the 8th Bn East Surrey Company Serjeant Major Ernest Cheney Laughton (#4910) was active on july 1st 1916.
He was KIA on this date during the famous football attack on the Somme.
Born Stoke Prior, Worchestershire 16th april 1886.
I appreciate your reply.
Thanks.
Pieter Meere, The Netherlands
Re Percy Wesley, find his British War and Victory Medal roll entry on Ancestry and then use that information to summon up the war diaries. If this information is not immediately obvious it may still be possible to find out more about him. Please send me an email if you want me to undertake paid research.
Re CSM Laughton, I am afraid I do not know the answer to that, Pieter. I suggest you post a comment on the Great War Forum.
I am researching a Family member who fought in WW1 called Stanley Riccalton. His grandson was in contact with you on 12 October 2016 at 20:01. Can you help me get in contact please?
I have the attestation records and discharge docs, as well as medal index, for my Great Grandad - 3rd Battn Royal Berks 1894, moved to 2nd Battn 1900 and deployed to Africa, then reenlisted ASC 1915 and served in WW1.
I've tried to piece together all the contents, but some of the abbreviations mean nothing to me.
I'd love for you to go over what I have and fill in any gaps, or at least confirm my findings.
Cherry on the cake would be if you could perhaps find any war diary entries to show his movements in Africa and/or France.
Cheers,
Keith
Keith, please drop me a line to paulcanixon@yahoo.co.uk and we can discuss next steps.
Re Stanley Riccalton, I regret the only details I have regarding this man are the posts you can see from October 2016. I do not see email addresses.
Hi, I am trying to get information on my Great grandfather. He served In RGA as a gunner F Chapman service number 323023. Any help would be grateful
Mark, re Gunner Chapman. This man has surviving papers which you can download provided you pay Findmypast: https://britisharmyancestors.co.uk/search-result/?q=chapman+323023
Hello Paul,
I would just like to say thank you for your time in finding out what happened to my great-great-grandfather. I was very impressed with your knowledge, professionalism and the amount of information you found. The information was presented to me in a way that was easy to read and understand. I will definitely be recommending you to others who need help with their research.
Kind regards,
Ben
Hi Paul
My grandfather Edwin Whiting has records showing
G/17901 East Kent Regiment 8th Battalion
65417 Royal Fusiliers 29th Battalion
602625 London Regiment 18th Reserve Battalion
Wounded 14.11.17 (Wounded List 5416, 20.11.17)
I just want to know about the movement between regiments and which one he was in when wounded.
Any initial help gratefully received. Dave
Ben, thank you for taking the time and trouble to say so; it was my pleasure to be able to help you.
Dave Were, it would be possible to work that out. Please drop me a line: paulcanixon@yahoo.co.uk
HI Paul
Just a quick question about my Great Granddad's service numbers, he was in the R.F.A and had two number's. I will be getting replacement medals and need to know if the first or the last number would be on the medals or both ?
Thank you for any help.
Kind regards
Tony
Almost certainly it would be the first number only, but the medal index card/medal roll/s would confirm this.
That's brilliant, thanks very much for that Paul but how would the medal card confirm this ? which I do have.
All best
Tony
Have a look at this link, Tony, and in particular the card for John F Jones who was a TF man with two numbers: https://www.longlongtrail.co.uk/soldiers/how-to-research-a-soldier/campaign-medal-records/how-to-interpret-a-campaign-medal-index-card/
That's great cheers Paul and thanks again.
Take care
Tony
Good Evening,
looking for info on William S Hutchins RN 203247, Middlesex Rgmt 5418, RFC 78914. On his 1916 enlistment/Short Service Attestation card he lists prior service as 14 yrs RN and 8 months Black Watch. I'm trying to find any other details on the Black Watch claim. DOB 1883 DOD 1917
cheers
Russell
Russell, re the Black Watch. There would have been paperwork generated for this enlistment and if it survives it will be in WO 97 (assuming he joined before 1913) which can be searched on Findmypast. If it was post 1913 it would be in WO 363 or WO 364. It would also be worth checking with the Black Watch archive in Perth to see if they have enlistment books or any other details about this man.
Hi Paul
How would I find out which company of he 1/4th East Yorkshire Regiment my ancestor was in? He joined in 1917 and went out to France in April 1918, and I know much about the battle in which he went missing, presumed killed, but I can't identify which trench he would have been in unless I can find out his company.... Where would I find that kind of record?
Thanks
Re 1/4th East Yorks, your best hope will be if he appears on an International Red Cross 'missing' list as these often give company details. Even if a service record survives it is unlikely to show his company.
Hi Paul,
I am desperately trying to find information on my Grandfather who served in the Coldstream Guards during WW2. I believe he signed up before the war around 1938. I have a photo of his regiment in Caterham from that date. His name is Harry Burney Eagles and I cannot find any records of him anywhere. Any help would be great.
Thanks
Phil Eagles
Phil Eagles, I need to refer you back to the text in this post:
"Second World War (WW2) service records
Please note that all Second World War and post 1920 service record enquiries should be addressed straight to the MoD which still holds the records. For everything else, try me."
Again, the relevant URL is: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/requests-for-personal-data-and-service-records
Hi Paul,
Am researching two family ancestors/members
my Great Uncle - Private Alexander Hunter, Black Watch Royal Highlanders. Killed in action 29 Jan 1916, buried Rifle House cemetery, Belgium. 8th (Service) Battalion.
I have found quite a lot of information already - but trying to fill in some gaps. His service number for example was 6, but I have found another record that looks like the same man with a service record of 10129 so i think he was renumbered as part of Kitchener's new army?
He was born in Alloa, Fife, 1887, his mother is Janet Hunter (father unknown). He possibly worked in a coal mine before enlisting - maybe 1904??
I think he was in Sialkot, India - found a record in the military census of 1911. With 2nd Battalion Black Watch - the birthplace and date match up.
I have found a medal card for him with the service number 6. But not one for the other service number.
I have also found his personal effects record showing money paid to his mother at the end of the war.
Would love to know if the two service numbers are the same man? - Trying to track him between the census of 1901 when he was living with his mum as a child, and the 1911 census when he wasn't there but was possibly in India.
How he came about to be renumbered?
He was killed in action, i think possible Pleogsteert wood. But he was the only man from black watch killed on that day so I wondered if he was injured earlier and died from injuries?
Secondly - my own grandfather. William Hunter. Born 1907 in Dunfermline to Janet Hunter, same mother as Alexander despite the 20yr age gap. Again father unknown, his birth certificate says illegitimate.
My father said he served with the Fife and Forfar Yeomanry but I can't seem to find much about him. He discharged, my dad thinks, in 1945. Wife Grace McLeod. We know he served in North Africa. He died 1981.
Interested in service records, medals etc as for some reason the family didn't keep anything.
Thanks in advance. I am working on a family tree in ancestry.com and will put everything in there to be shared.
Sue Stone (nee Hunter)
Re Alexander Hunter
Career soldier, joined the BW in 1904, probably a reservist by 1914. Don't confuse him with 10129 who will be a different man. No service record but would be possible to work out his likely service from 1904 until 1916. He was killed in action rather than died of wounds.
Re William Hunter born 1907, his records will still be with the MoD.
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