Genealogy Chat

I suppose the records still belong to the MOD and the time hasn't been reached yet when they can be opened up. At the appropriate time, they will be released, no doubt to the National Archives.

I agree with everyone in principle. But if the MOD offer this service without funding, then maybe they shouldn't offer this service. Or it should be organised by outsourcing, and I'm sure most family historians would pay an appropriate fee for a more reasonable response time.

Madmeg

That's how it is Peter. They have more pressing matters to deal with and understandably so. It's not necessarily a "simple" reply. Time has to be spent searching.

Joan,

I think you have made my case for me. Despite your hyperbolic reaction and your willingness to fall for emotional blackmail by the MOD you admit that waiting times have reached 10 months and are rising. If this trend continues then some people will never receive a reply in their lifetime. Surely it cannot be acceptable to have to wait for months to receive a simple administrative reply.

Peter

I too had to wait several months for a successful reply to my request.

It is appalling that in the twenty-first century, long after the passing of the Freedom of Information Act, a publicly-funded organisation (presumably the Ministry of Defence) should take so long to respond to these legitimate requests. The MOD still seems to be living in the 1950s.

Peter

Nudging for Barbara.

I recently applied for my father's WW2 records and have been told by MOD to expect a wait of 9 months.
Marilyn

These will only be issued if the nok gives permission and the person of the records has died plus proof by way of a death certificate is needed for WW2 records can be sought by the MOD.

Next of kin doesn't have to apply, but must give permission. I was able to apply for my late dad's records directly and subsequently request the war medal which he never collected. My mum simply signed a letter giving her consent and I send a copy of dads death cert.

Whole process took around six months start to finish. Records are kept in several locations, depending on the service concerned, and some archives will be busier than others so it isn't possible to give a timescale for all circumstances.

brill thanks for the kid help cheers

You can apply for his records - it will cost £30 and there's a long wait!

Details of how to apply are here

http://www.veterans-uk.info/service_records/service_records.html

hi good people

iam wishing to get a copy of my grandads ww2 army records i have his army number his rank and what part of the army he was in .just wondered if anyone could point me in the right way please? i would be very greatful

thanks grainne