Royal Army Service Corps

[Katie123]

Hello All,
My great-grandfather served as a driver in the Royal Army Service Corps in WW1. His name was William Leeson (he was discharged in September 1918) - I was wondering how I could find out more about both him and the RASC? Plus - and I know this is a long shot - would there be any way of finding a photo of him in his uniform anywhere? His service number was T/425513

[steven781]

Hi Katie

My great-uncle was a driver with the RASC during WW2. The RASC is what is know the Royal Logistics Corps who have a museum at Camberley. Their purpose was to provide support to the Army by moving troops and supplies. A vital role.

As you refer to the WW1 you can look up service records on Ancestry. I see you have his service number so this will help ensure you are looking at the correct record, along with any other background information you may have such as address, wife or parents.

Let me know how you get on

Steve

[forester]

Hello Katie,

Have you found the two service records and medal index card for him?

He was called up from the reserve 6th July 1918 and joined on the 9th.
He was discharged as medically unfit (Chorea) on 13th September 1918.
Granted Silver War Badge.

At the time of his discharge he was with 661 Company, which is a horse transport company (hence the T prefix to his service number).

Phil

[Katie123]

Hey guys,
thanks very much for your replies makes for interesting reading!
i did find the records on ancestry, but didn't read he bit about the chorea - just googled it and apparently it can stem from rheumatic fever in childhood...which is coincidental, as his daughter had a severe heart condition resulting from rheumatic fever!
i am so desperate to see a picture of this guy...would love to put a face with the name and the story!

[steven781]

I was very fortunate to be able to find long-lost cousins via Genes Reunited who were able to share many family photos including some of ancestors in uniform. Give it a try its only £10 for 6-months.

I find it so tragic reading of family members who had died in service, such a waste and had not even started to live. I consider myself very fortunate to be where I am today and we should hold all servicemen in our thoughts every day not just for Remembrance Sunday.

Steve

[scrimnet]

Just to avoid confusion...In WW1 it was The Army Service Corps....they did not become "Royal" until after the war

[Katie123]

Just to avoid confusion...In WW1 it was The Army Service Corps....they did not become "Royal" until after the war

whoops...thanks!
I find it sad so, especially so in the cases of the ones who are left forgotten. Such a waste of life!