A case of changed identity

[Jules1066]

I would very much appreciate some help to understand what the initials SEA mean on a military card (dated 1948) with military number 81992.

The name provided on the card is fictitious and the person’s real name probably starts with Stanley. How easy would it be to ‘Simply’ change a name on such a document?

He was a reconnaissance specialist and in WW2 was responsible for some of the beaches near Margate.

There is a number on the card. Do we quote this number if we request his service records, or is this number used for a different purpose?

This person was attached to the Royal Ordnance Army Corps and had also served in WW1 (aged 17/18). Fluent in several Indian languages it’s possible he spent time in India? Or worked closely with an Indian regiment? He told his family he was part of the Black & Tans during the Irish troubles and also served in India, and in 4th Hussars.

Thanks
Julia

[MaxD]

I think the SEA and the number relate to the issuing office.  WW2 service numbers were 7, later 8 digits.  Cards of that time didn't have sophisticated security measures but changing the name on its own wouldn't stand up to scrutiny as it wouldn't agree with other details if checked.

Presumably you know his real name date of birth and have his death cert otherwise applying for his record, which would fill in the blanks, would be difficult.  You don't need his service number.

MaxD

[Jules1066]

Thank you for your response.

I think the next step is to obtain his service records. The name change occurred sometime between 1939 and 1947.

WW1 records might be in one name...and WW2 and post in another!

Suspected multiple cases of bigamy might be behind this change of identity.

Jules

[Chris Doran]

Are you sure this is a "military" card? It looks like the standard identity card everyone got (including me). Or am I missing something?

[philipsearching]

Are you sure this is a "military" card? It looks like the standard identity card everyone got (including me). Or am I missing something?

I agree.  If you look  at thr two rubber stamps dated 14 JY 48 and 30 AU 49 it is clear that the stamps are marked NATIONAL REGISTRATION OFFICE - National, not Military.

Philip

[Crumblie]

Are you sure this is a "military" card? It looks like the standard identity card everyone got (including me). Or am I missing something?

I agree.  If you look  at thr two rubber stamps dated 14 JY 48 and 30 AU 49 it is clear that the stamps are marked NATIONAL REGISTRATION OFFICE - National, not Military.

Philip

A military identity card would have not only a service number but also the holders rank as well

[Jules1066]

Thanks for pointing that out.

It was shared by his son who assumed it was his military card.

It appears to be an identity card people carried at the time? I’m not familiar with it.

Jules

[Ruskie]

Assuming he was consistent with his date and place of birth, in your application you could explain the situation to the MOD and request that they search for him under both names if you are unsure which he enlisted under.

[Chris Doran]

For cards of this pattern, only the children's ones, coloured khaki, carried a date of birth (or to be precise a "valid until" date at age 16 after which they had to be exchanged for a blue adult one). So all you can say is that it belonged to someone surnamed Stanley who lived at those addresses which you may or may not be able to tie to the father. Did he ever tell the son it was his? Otherwise, he could have acquired it anyhow at any time and kept it as a souvenir.