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Author Topic: Tracing a serviceman  (Read 1008 times)

Offline Louise80

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Tracing a serviceman
« on: Saturday 08 October 11 22:36 BST (UK) »
Hi all, not been on here for a while but got stuck with some research and remembered how good this site was  :)
I have recently purchased some original WW2 medals to add to my collection. They came in the original issue box with a name and address on. How do I go about researching this man as I am interested in knowing more about him as I have his medals. The chances are pretty slim but I thought if I could track him down (if hes still alive) I could reunite him with them.
Any help is appreciated even if its just a starting block :)

Offline Louise80

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Re: Tracing a serviceman
« Reply #1 on: Sunday 09 October 11 11:01 BST (UK) »
Hi, just thought I'd add the info on the medals to see if that helps
The name and address on the box are
Mr H T Yates
25, Alima Road (may be a mis-spelling of Alma Road)
Chingford
E4
The medals are
War medal 1939-45
1939-45 War star
Defence medal
Africa star
Not sure if this will help decipher if he was Army or Raf as i'm not sure whether the medals issued are different depending on which Armed force you served in?

Offline sharki

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Re: Tracing a serviceman
« Reply #2 on: Sunday 09 October 11 11:15 BST (UK) »
Hi Louise,
May I sound a note of caution here? A friend of mine acquired a DFC at an auction and, being an enthusiastic RAF researcher, decided to try and trace the person to whom the medal was awarded. After quite a bit of effort he succeeded and called on the person concerned. He was not welcomed and was told to mind his own business and not interfere in other people's lives.
Whilst I'm not advocating that you should abandon your search, just be aware that the result may not be all you hope for.
Best wishes.
Bomber Command 39/45.
Malaya Emergency

Offline Louise80

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Re: Tracing a serviceman
« Reply #3 on: Sunday 09 October 11 11:34 BST (UK) »
I appreciate what you're saying, the chances are that the man they belonged to has probably passed away now anyway. Its more for the fact that because I collect medals and know that these are originals, I find it disrespectful to know that I have his medals but know nothing about him. At least if I can find out even his first name or where he served, the information can go alongside the medals. My great uncle was awarded a posthumous CGM in WW2 for his service and bravery after 91 flights so I know full well what they had to go throught o get them and just wanted to know a bit more about him :)
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