Searching for army record

Hi I am researching for a friend whose grandfather was in world war II, All I have is his name and date of birth, I have been on ancestry, find my past and cant find any definite info on him. All I have is his name and date of birth, and a picture of his medals, if anyone can help I would appreciate it. Thanks. Catherine

Samuel Johnston 2nd March 1916, Born in Ballymena, Antrim.

 

There is a family tree on ancestry and his entry has the attached photo (him on the left) which I'd say shows him to be Royal Artillery

 

Sorry, looking the family tree seems to be one you have done - but the photo hopefully helps people

 

Catherine,

WW2 records aren't on any website at this time. I would recommend your friend send off for their Grandfather's record as a next of kin application will reveal far more than any other enquiry. I believe it costs £30 but may take some time.

link to request a service record Get a copy of military service records

 

Thank you all.

 

While you are waiting for the service records, some basic info can be gained from his medals & stars which are left to right:

1939-45 Star: For the army, usual qualification was 180 days service between 3 September 1939 and 2 September 1945.
Africa Star: Served in an operational area of North Africa between 10 June 1940 and 12 May 1943. Additionaly he has the 8th Army Clasp awarded for service in North Africa with the 8th Army between 23 October 1942 and 12 May 1943.
France & Germany Star: For entry into operational service in France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Holland and Germany between 6 June 1944 and 8 May 1945
Defence Medal; For service in non operational areas. Award criteria varies depending on a persons nationality, location & which branch served with, but if in the British Army, it could be earned for 180 days service in a non-operational area abroad subject to aerial attack.
War Medal: awarded for 28 days service in the armed forces between 3 September 1939 and 2 September 1945.

So it looks like North Africa 1942/43 with then 8th Army, did not stay with them when they moved on to fight in Italy in 1943 (if so would have got the Italy Star), then maybe returned to Uk, prior to service in the battles in NW Europe 1944/45.