National Archives: Researcher Wanted

[AngusOg]

For sometime now I've been trying to verify my fathers RNR LS&GC medal which is not listed by the MODMO. I tried to have the RN ppl do a trace and they graciously referred me to the National Archives as all RNR information up to 1959 is store there, so I now need the services of a researcher. I have the medal with the pertinent information impressed on it plus my fathers limited service record from the RN.

Any recommendations would be appreciated.

[Odin]

I'm sorry that is not correct; the NA do not have information as recent as 1959 which is available to the public. They work on the principle of about 75 years before releasing servicemens' details (so that the individuals are not likely to still be alive).

I think for most RN service information it only goes up to about 1928, so unless you father joined before that date I think it is highly unlikely that you will find anything in the NA. If he did join before then you can download the service sheet through the internet (cost £3.50).

There is also some service information available at Yeovilton but I've never been there and therefore can't advise on that.

[AngusOg]

Hi Odin, I'm posting the letter I got from Navy Command and they state records are available up tp 1956. I f you have verifiable information to the contary please let me know. I'd hate to waste my time and the ppl @ Kew gardens time on a wild goose chase. Good news is my daughter got her LS&GC medal from Canadian Militia 10 years + service 48th Highlanders Toronto.. almost 70 years after her grandfather got his LS&GC medal. Pictures were taken in Kosovo.

[Odin]

Congratulations to your daughter on gaining her LSGC Medal

I've looked in the NA Guide http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/catalogue/RdLeaflet.asp?sLeafletID=47&j=1
and it is rather confusing. It says under the heading:
RNR Ratings serving between 1922-1958 (which suggests the papers are there)
Records for RNR ratings after 1945 are still held with the Ministry of Defence:

So that suggests that if he was still serving at the end of WWII his papers might not have been released by The MOD.

I had a friend recently search for papers of a RNR rating who served in WWI and he couldn't even find him. I will be seeing him in a couple of days and ask his advice on this one.

[AngusOg]

Thanks Odin ... that should be a big help ... My father was medically discharged late 1943 ... so they may be there ...

[james_harvey]

I used an online reseacher to find my RNR KIA service record he died in 1944

http://www.militaryresearchon.com/homepage.shtml

Very resonable. he found his complete WW2 service record.

Regards

James

[AngusOg]

Thanks James ... I should have came to this forum first .. I've been muddling my way thru the Archives most of the evening with no one to scream at ... :mad:

p.s. I got his service records but they were incomplete only covered 1936 - 1938 ... have to search RNR records now.

[peterinkent]

Hello All

To clarify the RNR record situation

The original RNR record cards from just before WW1 to 1956 I think are held at Yeovilton. You have to go there to access them and book in advance see their websit for conatc details

At Kew the cards are on Microfilm and I think are complete. I have never looked at the post war ones but they cetainly have WW2 era records.

Each card coveres five years service

Regards Peter

[AngusOg]

It has taken a while but I finally have some concrete info on my fathers service and entitlement to RNR LSGC medal. My sister found his discharge papers < I know she has more hidden away > and the number on the medal is missing the letter X in front of his number. It is amazing how far off my information was. The X in front of the number changes everything and should lead to finding the correct records this time.

[jainso31]

I got my father's and his father's complete RNR Service Records from the Fleet Air Arm Museum (via Anna Clark,the Archivist,Tele No.01935 842628)who now or were, in June2010; in possession of all RNR records; which included medals awarded. Hope this is of some assistance.



jainso31

Always on the Lookout!

[seaJane]

Anna Clarke has moved on from Yeovilton as far as I am aware; the archivist is now Barbara Gilbert. She is overloaded with work so please be patient :)