Alas , we forgot
15M HAVE NO IDEA OF RELATIVES’ WAR TALES
NEARLY 15million Brits have no idea if their ancestors fought in a World War.
And of those who know their relatives did serve, just a quarter are aware of their rank and whether they were taken as prisoners of war.
Only a third have ever asked their grandparents or great-grandparents about their experiences, found a survey by history site Findmypast.
Paul Nixon, their military expert, said: “We’re facing a real risk of our knowledge about our ancestors’ experiences dying out. It’s so important to talk to loved-ones and share stories.”
The findings come as three-fifths of us say the nation cares less about the world wars as time passes.
TV historian Kate Williams, who used public records to learn that her great-grandad died in a World War One mustard gas attack, urged people to research their hero ancestors.
She said: “You never know what you might find.” Findmypast is offering free access all weekend.
WE should never forget the sacrifice others have made for this country.
Their selflessness during the two world wars secured the freedoms we all too often take for granted.
Life would be unrecognisable if it wasn’t for them.
As we marked Armistice Day yesterday and get ready for Remembrance Sunday tomorrow, it is important they are properly remembered.
However, it sadly appears that many of us are in the dark about the contribution our own relatives made.
Nearly 15 million people don’t know if their family members fought in the conflicts. It’s a massive shame.
The best way to properly commemorate this weekend is to find out about your own history.