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General => Armed Forces => World War Two => Topic started by: jen5525 on Friday 30 December 16 17:29 GMT (UK)

Title: south africa military service?
Post by: jen5525 on Friday 30 December 16 17:29 GMT (UK)

I'm trying to find military service for my great uncle, John Stewart (b. 1921 Port Glasgow, Scotland).  He relocated to Natal, South Africa in 1936 at the age of 15.  I have been told by my mother that he fought in WWII, and that she thinks he may have been a prisoner of war.  My question is whether  there would be a separate South African army that fought in the war, or if he'd have been part of the British forces.  Either way, does anyone have any suggestions on how I might find his military records.  Any thoughts or suggestions would be very helpful!
Jennifer

Title: Re: south africa military service?
Post by: 3sillydogs on Friday 30 December 16 17:53 GMT (UK)

He could have served in the Union Defence Force or returned to England to enlist there.  The Union Defence Force was part of the British war effort.

There are records of POW's on FindMyPast and Ancestry if you have a sub for either one of those.  I found my uncle as a POW in Italy on them. He served in the Union Defence Force.

Title: Re: south africa military service?
Post by: purlin on Friday 30 December 16 18:00 GMT (UK)

You may also find information at the National Archives.  http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/help-with-your-research/research-guides/soldiers-african-forces-under-british-control/

Title: Re: south africa military service?
Post by: Mark G on Sunday 01 January 17 12:31 GMT (UK)

Dear Jennifer

I can give you details of a very competent researcher who will search SA archives.

Regards

Mark

Title: Re: south africa military service?
Post by: jen5525 on Sunday 01 January 17 21:54 GMT (UK)

thanks Mark.  I'm trying to do it without involving the researcher...but if necessary, I will definitely go that route, so a name would be fantastic!