Discover Your Family's Military History

Family Military History Research

Discover What Your Relatives Did in WWII

Professional genealogy research by a qualified military historian

Are you curious about the heroic stories and untold sacrifices of your ancestors who served during the Second World War? Do you wish to connect with their legacy, whether they fought bravely on the battlefield or performed vital but often overlooked tasks behind the frontlines? Look no further. As a military historian, my mission is to meticulously uncover the service records of service personnel and share their individual stories, ensuring that their contributions to history are known and remembered.

Why Choose The War Years?

Uncovering Untold Stories

At The War Years, we’re committed to preserving the heritage of the brave men and women who served their nations during the most defining period of the 20th century. The Second World War witnessed countless acts of heroism, not only on the battlefield but also in the countless mundane but vital tasks performed by numerous individuals. At The War Years, we understand the significance of these stories and are dedicated to bringing them to light. Through painstaking research, our aim is to shed light on both the frontline heroes and those who contributed behind the scenes.

A Personalised Service

We understand that every family has a unique story to tell, and not every hero carries a weapon. We offer a personalised research service tailored to your specific needs. Whether you're searching for a specific individual's history or want to uncover the broader context of a military unit, we’ve got you covered.

What You'll Discover

I research your family's WWII military service using official archives, unit war diaries, and service records. You'll learn:

  • Where they served and what they did

  • Which units they joined and the training they received

  • Battles and operations in which they were involved

  • Awards, promotions, and service details

  • How their role fitted into the bigger picture

All research is conducted by a military historian with a Master's degree and 14+ years of experience.


My Research Process

  1. Complete an online form, providing as much information about your ancestor’s military service as possible, e.g. name, rank, branch of service, service number, etc.

  2. Initial consultation (free 15 minutes): We’ll discuss what you know and what you want to learn.

  3. Archive research: I search official records, unit histories, war diaries, and photo archives.

  4. Analysis and context: I explain their service and how it connected to major operations.

  5. Detailed report: You receive a comprehensive report with copies of documents, photos, and analysis.

  6. Follow-up call: I will answer questions and explain the findings.


Research Packages

Basic Service Summary - £150

Perfect for getting the essential facts

  • Service record summary and timeline

  • Unit history and role explanation

  • Major battles and operations involved in

  • 3-4 page illustrated report

  • Copies of key documents found

Typical delivery: 2-3 weeks, estimated


Comprehensive Military Biography - £350

Complete picture of their military service

Everything in the Basic Package, plus:

  • Personal letters and diary research (where available)

  • Detailed training and career progression

  • Medal and commendation research

  • Photo archive searches

  • 8-10 page illustrated report with timeline

Typical delivery: 4-5 weeks, estimated


Complete Family Military Heritage - £650

Multiple family members and full historical context

Everything in the Comprehensive Package, plus:

  • Research on multiple family members

  • Family military timeline across generations

  • Analysis of service within major military operations

  • 15-20 page bound report

  • Presentation-quality family military history

Typical delivery: 6-8 weeks, estimated


Frequently Asked Questions

  • I'll tell you within the first week if records are available. If not, you don't pay.

  • National Archives, Imperial War Museum, unit museums, regimental archives, and specialist collections.

  • Yes, I research the Commonwealth, Empire, and Allied forces that served with British units.

  • I have successfully completed POW research projects.

  • I focus on WWII, but I can also research WWI and post-1945 conflicts upon request.

Additional Services

  • Rush research: Need results quickly? 50% surcharge for delivery within 2 weeks.

  • Follow-up research: Additional questions after delivery - £75/hour.

  • Presentation creation: PowerPoint or video summary - from £150.

  • Archive visit assistance: I can accompany you to archives - £150/day plus expenses.


Get Started

Are you ready to discover your family's WWII story?

Complete our online form or request a free 15-minute consultation to discuss your research needs. I'll explain what's possible and recommend the right package.

Most family military research falls into the Comprehensive package (£350), but I'll advise what works best for your situation.


Get Your Research Quote in Seconds

Curious about the cost of uncovering your family's military heritage? Our interactive calculator provides an instant, transparent estimate tailored to your research needs. Whether you're seeking a basic service record search or comprehensive operational history research, enter your requirements and discover precisely what your project will cost.

There are no surprises, no hidden fees, just honest pricing for professional British military history research. From WWII heroes to complex prisoner-of-war cases, get your personalised quote now and take the first step towards preserving your family's remarkable military legacy.

Try the  Research Calculator and start your journey into the past today.