Hi all, My Grandfathers brother, born in 1900 emigrated to Canada in the 1920's. He joined the Canadian Army at some point during the Second World War. I have a photo of him in uniform with his mother in the UK, so I know he served outside of Canada. As his birth was over 100 years ago, am I able to apply for his service records? Edit: He died in 1979. Kind regards Emps
Hi, I have just read through and it states that you have to be a Canadian Citizen, PR or be currently present in Canada. I am none of those! Looks like I will need to find a Canadian to help me! Cheers
Hello, Canadian military service files are held by the LAC in Ottawa. Anyone can apply for service records. They'll even give you 25 pages, culled from the file, free. We don't have the 100 year rule in Canada so if you have proof of death (either obituary, death certificate or photograph of grave marker) and you're prepared to wait the 24 months (blame the backlog on the pandemic) you can get that. If you don't have any of those you can apply under our 110 year rule in 10 years. Regards, Dave
Hi Dave, Thanks for the advice, I really hope its that easy - (the 24 months wait doesn't sound great!). I did find the following though which I would like to get your opinion on:-
Let me come back to you later today. I have several formal requests in there now. I want to call someone I know who works there and I'll come back with the way forward.
Compliments of forum member Klambie, I am in touch with an Ottawa based researcher who can expedite the war records usually within 30 days. He charges a nominal fee for his services. Send me a private message if you are interested.
Thanks for the replies and very kind offers of help. 17thDYRCH, I may very well take you up on that offer. Kind regards
Well, after a short wait my Great Uncles Service Records have arrived from Canada. I have attached some copies to seek help in putting all of it into some order. He only served in Canada and the UK before being discharged in 1943. I have attached 4 pages in order + an additional duplicate page that may hold more info. Any help would be gratefully received. Kind regards Emps
SOS Struck Of Strength TOS Taken On Strength Help with abbreviations: Two places to identify British (and Commonwealth) military abbreviations: Second World War Abbreviations and Acronyms - Researching WW2 and: Abbreviations in Service Records (UK/ Army/ WWII) : For ref.
Can we ask which method you used to apply for the file? There are often differing opinions on which is most efficient. Your 3 month turnaround is extremely quick. Good luck with your research.