Pension Records/ Service Records Options

[aniobi]

Hello Helpful People,
I have come across census records for some people that show their occupation as Chelsea Pensioner or RN Pens. Will I find details of these records online?
Also if the WW1 Medal cards are online why can't I find the service records for the soldier?
Also is there an online source for RN records?
Too many questions??
Thanks Ann

[crimea1854]

Hi Ann

I believe the records for the Army are currently being digitised, and at some point in the future will be available online. If you go to the National Archives catalogue you can search for the reference to some of the earlier army records.

Re the WW1 medal cards, while you should be able to find your man, particularly if he has an unusual name, or you know the regiment he served in, the majority of the mens' service records were destroyed by fire during the blitz. For this reason they are known as the 'Burnt' documents, of which about only 20% survived.

For the Royal Navy, you are in more luck. If you go to NA online, and click Seamans Records, this brings up a search box. As with the Army Medal Cards you do need to know a place, and approximate date of birth to really narrow down your search. Once you have found a likely record this can be downloaded for a small fee of £3.50.

Hope this has been of help.

Martin

[gortonboy]

hi,,some chelsea pensioner records are available at findmypast,,,,if you have a particular soldier u r interested in,,,please post his details,,,i can have a look.