Forces War Records

[Beza]

Does anyone have access to this site and can provide a lookup?

[CaroleW]

Is this the site you are referring to?

https://www.forces-war-records.co.uk/search-military-records-for-free?

 

[Beza]

yes

[Ruskie]

Depending on what you are looking for, it may be available elsewhere.

[Beza]

I refer to John Helm Army Number 5674198. He was in 2/5 of the Queens Royal (West Surrey) Regiment in WW2. He was born in St Helens Lancashire on 19/5/1919. From National Archives I know he was a POW captured in Abbeville, France on 21/5/1940 and taken to Stalag XXA. From Ancestry I know he spent time in Stalag 383 (Prisoner Number 5741) until his liberation in 1945. I also know from Ancestry that he was demobbed on 15th July 1946. Forces War Records hold 4 x records but I cannot access as not a member. Just wondered of these records provided any more additional info e.g. date he joined? When he was moved from XXA to 383 etc. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Phil

[Ruskie]

I hope someone will be able to direct you to where you can find more information about John.

I have not heard of anyone having a subscription for Forces War Records. The site used to get a bit of criticism here, as most of the records on the site were available for free elsewhere, but that may have changed over the years. You may find the four records they have are the ones you have already seen on Ancestry.

In general, WW2 Service records are still with the MOD. There is a £30 cost and about a years wait after you apply for the record. Apparently the service records are gradually being put online, but there will no doubt be a fee to access them some time in the (distant) future.

Regarding POW records, I’m sure someone will be able to tell you if there is somewhere else to obtain specific POW information. I vaguely remember a thread some time ago where some information was found elsewhere.

[Beza]

Thanks Ruskie I appreciate your time to reply and try to help.
Phil

[shume]

Do the Red Cross hold records for POW's ?

[GrahamSimons]

Do the Red Cross hold records for POW's ?

This might help - right at the bottom....
https://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/help-with-your-research/research-guides/british-prisoners-second-world-war-korean-war/