Judging by the lack of posts one could assume there’s been little going on in regards to First and Second World War research. However, this isn’t the case. I’ve been busy in the background repairing broken links, updating posts and moving photographs and other documents to more reliable servers. The work is ongoing and I expect more changes will be required as Library and Archives Canada (LAC) continues to redesign their online presence. Thank you to those of you who have brought out-of-date links and wonky pages to my attention.

In the past few years I’ve seen a tremendous increase in requests for information on Canadian Second World War veterans and so I’ve been very busy researching their service. It’s important to note that as of May 2023 service files for those who served but survived the war are still “closed”, and can only be obtained by applying for them from LAC. Application wait times are approaching three years, however I’ve obtained service files much faster using their formal ATIP process. Prior to COVID files were received within 30 days, however ATIP wait times are currently measured in months, typically 4 to 6. If you’re struggling to obtain information you may wish to visit my Military and Family History Research Services page to find out how I can help.

I have several ideas for new content and hope to post more frequently in the coming months. In the past my articles took days to research and write, but going forward I’m hoping they will be more focused and require less preparation.

One of my ideas is to highlight some of the books in my library. This includes vintage war-related paperbacks, especially personal accounts written by veterans during the 1950’s and 60’s. I have a small but growing collection of these books and I confess I also love the illustrated cover art that was indicative of the period. I’ve provided a sneak peek of one such title below.