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The Great War (1914-1918) Forum

National Archives


Les Woodbridge

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Hi,

Don't know if anyone can help me, I am planning a visit to the National Archives and I just want to be sure I don't miss anything. I am trying to research my Grandfather who served in the 1st. World War. I have his medal card and his Silver Badge Award, I think I need to look at the Soldiers Service Records, Medal Roles and the Pensions record, as he was awarded a pension. Is there anything else that I should look at while I am there? Hope someone can help. Les.

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Les

Don't forget his unit War Diary if there is one. He might not be mentioned by name, but it will give you an insight of the day to day happenings.

Terry Reeves

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Remember to bring some valid document to identify yourself (i.e. driving license). If you can have your user card made (online) before your visit, you'll have some 20 minutes more to spare in research. Read the online NA guides to be familiar with the proceedings before your visit.

Re the WO/363 and 364 records: remember to check the Mis-sorts as well. Bear in mind possible misspellings of your relative's surname if you don't happen to find him at the first try.

I also recommend a good look to Chris' "mother site: The Long, Long Trail

Check the NA catalogue's list for any items relevant to your research: if you are lucky in finding the records you search for, you can make the best of your visit by checking related documents (i.e.: Unit Diaries, as Terry has wisely pointed).

Get there early: more time to research (believe me, you'll need it: time really flies when you're there :lol: )

Gloria

PS (just added): which was (were) your relative's unit/s? If you mention them maybe other members of this Forum may give you interesting information about what/where to look for.

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Read the Rules on the NA website. They are fairly strict, but strictly fair!

Steve.

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Many Thanks for the replies will take all the advice given.

My Grandfather's regiments were the Welsh Regiment and the South Wales Borderers. I believe he may also have a third regiment that could have been the one he enlisted in.

Les.

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What's his name etc? Not a Swansea Pal is he?

Bernard

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remember also you need to use the reference numbers on the mic to gain the wo329 reference to order the medal roll book this should give you the battalions served with and dependant on luck and which regiment may give the dates he served abroad. The medal roll book is a must to find battalions its a bit tricky to suss at first but there is plenty of help to get you going get there early and in my experience go on a non late opening day its quieter and you get in earlier and can get help easier early doors, ps its addictive be warned lol

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All advice taken on board. Is everything I need kept at Kew? I believe some document are kept elsewhere and have to be ordered in.

My Grandfather was from North Wales and so not a Swansea Pal.

Mant Thanks. Les

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Thanks Les. A few lads from Rhyl etc. DID join the Swansea Pals presumably because it was training in the area before leaving for France.

Bernard

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Hi Bernard

I don't think he was a Swansea Pal but I guess he could have been. He was from Wrexham, his name was Thomas Lloyd Jones Welsh Regiment number 60907 and South Wales Borderers 41173.

Les.

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