Hi, I was looking for some advice on how to trace my grandfather's service history. My grandfather's name was Reginald James Richardson the only details I have regarding his service are that he was S.S.M Richardson, 23 Indian Division, F.S.S, Gauhati. I think S.S.M means Staff Sergeant Major and F.S.S is either Field Security Section or Fixed Signal Services? Is there anyway to find out his service history? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks Nik
Hello Nik welcome to the forum First port of call is service recordshttps://www.gov.uk/get-copy-military-service-records There is a bit of a wait at the moment due to the current situation. Once you have them you can get the war diaries there are a couple of members on the forum who can copy them at the National archives at Kew for a reasonable fee. Dont pay any site on the internet that states they have his service records they will not have them. A book here for your interest FIGHTING COCK: Being the History of the 23rd Indian Division, 1942-1947 - Naval & Military Press Look on this forum and you will find some more info of interest for you. 23rd Indian Division I am sure other forum members will be along shortly to assist you further regards Clive
Thank you for taking the time to help Clive, really appreciate it. I will take a look at the sites and book that you have mentioned and will let you know how I get on.
Welcome aboard. Others may come along and help. I have noted the 'Other Ranks' rarely feature in Google searches unless they have been awarded gallantry medals or written their memoirs. Searching Google will sometimes bring you back here. War diaries can contain almost anything. At the very least, they give the daily movements and most important actions of every unit. They may also contain information on casualties, message logs, rolls of officers (but not O.R.'s), maps, orders, and much else. They are available at the PRO to everyone. Drew5233 and some others are willing to scan them for the benefit of those who cannot get to the National Archives at Kew. It depends of course how much you want to know, just one battle or campaign for an example. Please come back and tell us what you found. Scanning threads it is clear some discover the site years after your posts and add their information or request help. Good luck.
23 Indian Division Field Security Section was an actual unit within the division 1942-43. From 1943-46 605 Indian Field Security Section was with the division, so it is reasonable to assume that the one was redesignated as the other.
