RAF records

[Roobarb]

My father served in the RAF in WWII. I've read in a family history magazine (and maybe on here) that I can send for his records. How do I go about this and what does it cost? Both of my parents are dead, I have two elder siblings - would the request have to come from the eldest ?Or could I be regarded as next of kin for this purpose? What evidence would I have to provide?

[mmm45]

http://www.veterans-uk.info/service_records/raf.html

Info here

Ady

[Roobarb]

Thank you Ady, that's very helpful.
The page you referred me to stated that records were available for Officers and Airmen, my father was neither of those. However, when I looked further into the site it looked as though the records are for any RAF servicemen, unless I'm mistaken. Unfortunately I'm rather put off by the £30 fee they ask for, it's a bit steep!
Thanks for the info anyway. 

[WelwynGC1]

Dont give up on it Roobarb, the £30 is well worth the info it provides. Getting my Uncles RAF service records opened so many doors for me and rest assured that there are many folk on here who will help you with any codes or other info you may not understand.

I sent the kinship form, the fee and a letter of authority signed by my Dad who is the next of kin. In your instance, l am sure you will be successful if you explain the circumstances. Go for it!!

One thing to remember also, ask for photocopies of the actual records or you just get a printed summary. Sometimes they include a glossary of terms for your assistance.
Good luck, let us know how you get on.

[Roobarb]

Thanks Welwyn, I'll certainly think about it. I have a lot of info about my dad's parents and where he lived so not sure what other information it would give me. I just thought it might be interesting.
Can you send a photocopy of the death cert? I wouldn't want to go to the expense of getting a copy from the GRO!

[WelwynGC1]

Hi Roobarb, l would have thought that the photocopy will be OK, if you need to prove that the chap is no longer with us.

Do you know anything more about where he served etc. 

[Roobarb]

Not really Welwyn. I remember him telling me about being in Somerset at some point and that the scrumpy was rather potent! I think he was in Ireland as well but don't know much else.

[DeeBoneham]

Dont give up on it Roobarb, the £30 is well worth the info it provides. Getting my Uncles RAF service records opened so many doors for me and rest assured that there are many folk on here who will help you with any codes or other info you may not understand.  One thing to remember also, ask for photocopies of the actual records or you just get a printed summary. Sometimes they include a glossary of terms for your assistance.
Good luck, let us know how you get on.

Roobarb I would second what Welwyn has put here.  By the way I think you may be getting confused by what an airman is if I read your post right.  Airman covers anyone from AC1 to W/O in the RAF not just for aircrew.  Do you have any of his documents? 
Dee

[Roobarb]

No Dee, nothing referring to his RAF service. 'Scuse my ignorance but what's an AC1 and a W/O? 

I think he was something on the mechanical side.