Looking for military records

[GillianF]

Many years ago I thought about getting the WWII military records of my father and father-in-law.  I didn't do it then and believe things have moved on and wonder what the current situation to apply for these records might be:  the form to complete, how much it costs and how long it takes etc.

My own father was in the Royal Artillery of the Second Army and part of a three man gunner crew in 30th Corps.  I have his pay number.

My father-in-law was called up and reported for duty to RAF Cardington on 15th December 1942 and worked in Air Sea Rescue.  I believe he was demobbed in 1946.  He re-joined the RAF as an Officer (Flight Lieutenant?) a few years later and worked his way up to Squadron Leader in catering at various UK and overseas postings and 'retired' in 1967.

So, how can I get the WWII military records of my father and father-in-law and will I be able to apply for my father-in-law's peacetime military records?

Any advice/help gratefully received!

Thank you.

[Neale1961]

Have you looked at the information here?
https://www.rootschat.com/forum/index.php?topic=651453.0

[GillianF]

I had a quick read and will, of course, look again but I was hoping for a feel of how/what I might expect to receive in the way of records from anyone who has experience of applying.  Thank you.

[nanny jan]

I applied for the record of my mother's first husband, who was in the army.  I received several pages detailing all his postings, courses taken etc.  Full of fascinating information.

[Kiltaglassan]

Like nanny jan, I applied for the service record of my first cousin, once removed who was in the Royal Artillery and who served both at home and overseas.

It gives his postings, promotions and conduct during a 6¹/₂ year period in WW2. It is well worth applying for your relative's service record.

Here's a list of the MOD Acronyms and Abbreviations-
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/227048/acronyms_and_abbreviations_dec08.pdf

[GillianF]

I have now downloaded the two forms for my father's WWII service in The British Army.

I am still, however, a little unsure of the situation for my father-in-law who had RAF WWII service and peacetime RAF service.  Does anyone know if I have to make two applications (and how) or whether his wartime (Aircraftsman serving in Air Sea Rescue) and peacetime (Commissioned Officer in the Catering Corps) records will be connected and available under one application?

Thank you!

[KGarrad]

You will be applying for a person's Service Records - nowhere on the forms does it say WW2 only

[GillianF]

A good point!  I will set to with the form filling.