How to find an army service number

Discovering a relative’s UK Army service number can be a rewarding endeavour, offering insights into their military history and personal experiences. This article provides a structured approach to help you locate this vital piece of information.

Understanding the Importance of Service Numbers

A service number is a unique identifier assigned to each soldier upon enlistment in the British Army. It is essential for accessing military records, tracking service history, and distinguishing between individuals with similar names. Knowing this number simplifies the search for detailed military records and ensures accuracy in your research.

Gathering Initial Information

Begin by collecting as much personal information about your relative as possible, including full name, date of birth, and the regiment or corps they served with. Family documents, photographs, letters, and personal anecdotes can provide valuable clues. Pay special attention to any military documents or memorabilia that might contain the service number.

Exploring Online Resources

Several online platforms offer access to British Army records:

• The National Archives: Holds extensive records of British Army personnel. Their research guides can help you navigate the available resources. 

• Findmypast: Provides access to over 8 million British Army service records between 1760 and 1939. This includes attestation papers, medical forms, and discharge documents. 

• Ancestry: Offers a vast collection of military records, including service records, pension records, and medal rolls.

Consulting Regimental and Corps Museums

If you know the specific regiment or corps your relative served in, contacting the associated museum can be beneficial. While they may not hold personal service records, they often have archives that can provide context and additional information about the regiment’s activities during your relative’s service. The Army Museums Ogilby Trust provides a directory of regimental museums.

Accessing Post-1920 Service Records

For soldiers who served after 1920, service records are held by the Ministry of Defence and are in the process of being transferred to The National Archives. As of January 2025, some of these records are searchable on Ancestry. The National Archives has produced a guide on how to locate non-digitised service records. 

Additional Resources

Other valuable resources include:

• Imperial War Museums: Offers guidance on tracing army service records and can provide context about military history. 

• FamilySearch: Provides access to a variety of British military records and can be a useful tool for genealogical research. 

Conclusion

Uncovering a relative’s UK Army service number requires patience and thorough research. By utilizing the resources outlined above and gathering as much personal information as possible, you can piece together your relative’s military history and gain a deeper understanding of their service.

Remember, each discovery brings you closer to honouring and preserving your family’s legacy.