RootsChat.Com
Research in Other Countries => Canada => Topic started by: Lindyloowho on Saturday 05 August 23 15:09 BST (UK)
-
Is it possible to obtain a copy of my uncles RCAF service records from WW2?
He is long deceased, as is his wife, no children.
Thank you, Linda
-
It appears to be possible but not easy. Some info here…
https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/services/contact-us/military-records.html
Click on the online bit for further info.
PB
-
Further details here: https://library-archives.canada.ca/eng/collection/research-help/military-heritage/second-world-war/Pages/second-world-war.aspx
As polarbear says, it's not an easy process. I sent off a request for the WW2 RCAF records of one of my uncles in 2018 and was told my request would be dealt with in due course. I am still waiting despite two chasers. Basically they blame the delays on three things: COVID, staff shortages and my request being lower priority than those of Canadian citizens. That said,, one of my living Canadian relatives put in a similar request for the same documents more three years ago and he's still waiting too.
-
Here's the latest update from the Library and Archives of Canada (LAC) on their efforts to clear the huge backlog of requests: https://library-archives.canada.ca/eng/corporate/transparency/reports-publications/atip-reports/atip-action-plan-progress/Pages/june-update.aspx
I noted this rather telling statement within the report "In the National Capital Region (NCR), the Personnel Records team has been tackling the backlog of requests for files of former Canadian Armed Forces members who fought in the Second World War or the Korean War. While only 2 employees were working on these requests a year ago, 27 employees are now actively addressing this backlog."
-
Thank you all for the information. It looks like I might do better to wait a bit and see if they clear the backlog!😁