Records of First World War servicemen published

Nov 5 2009 by Laura Caroe, The Journal

RELATIVES of First World War servicemen can now find out more about their heroic ancestors.

The Army service records of more than two million British soldiers who served during the “war to end all wars” have been published online for the first time.

A variety of information concerning all aspects of the army careers of those who completed their duty or were killed in action include the soldier’s name, date and place of birth, address, next-of-kin, former occupation, marital status and medical history.

Data on John Hedley, from Gunnerton, Barrasford, Northumberland, is just one set of thousands of records now available.

He was 19 years and one month old when he enlisted with the 4th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers on December 20, 1915, as a sapper in Hexham.

Records amazingly give details including the former labourer’s height – 5ft 3in – and whether Mr Hedley had any distinctive marks, which he didn’t.

Other information revealed Mr Hedley lost three days’ pay after he was caught spitting on the floor of his billet, in January 11, 1917 in Herne Bay, in Kent. And the unmarried soldier later served with the 323rd Quarrying Company of Royal Engineers.