Ministry of Defence (MOD) – Polish service records

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For many people researching their Polish ancestry, uncovering military service records can provide invaluable insights into their family’s history. This is particularly true for those whose relatives served in the Polish Armed Forces during World War II, especially under British command. The Ministry of Defence (MOD) holds many of these records, offering a crucial link to understanding an ancestor’s wartime experiences, movements, and contributions. In this guide, we explore what Polish service records in the MOD archives contain, how to access them, and why they are a vital resource for genealogical research.

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) Archives and Military Records

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) Archives is the official repository for historical military service records of personnel who served in the British Armed Forces, as well as foreign troops who fought under British command, including Polish soldiers during World War II. The archive preserves personnel files, operational records, and administrative documents related to military service, making it a key resource for genealogical research.

For Polish descendants, the MOD Archives hold crucial Polish Armed Forces service records, particularly for those who joined British-commanded units such as the Polish II Corps, the Polish Air Force, and the Polish Navy. These records include enlistment details, postings, medical histories, and demobilisation information. Unlike many other historical military records, MOD service files are not publicly available and require a formal request for access. The archives maintain strict privacy rules, but direct descendants and legal representatives can apply for copies, provided they submit the necessary documentation.

What Are MOD Polish Service Records?

During World War II, many Polish soldiers who had escaped Nazi- and Soviet-occupied Poland joined the Polish Armed Forces in exile. A large portion of these troops served under British command, particularly in the Polish II Corps, Polish Air Force, and Polish Navy. The British authorities took responsibility for maintaining service records for these units, which are now preserved by the MOD.

These records include detailed personnel files, such as:

  • Enlistment and service details – information on when and where a soldier, airman, or sailor joined the forces.
  • Promotions and postings – records of unit transfers, ranks held, and key dates.
  • Medical records – including injuries sustained in battle and medical treatments received.
  • Awards and commendations – recognition of bravery, service medals, and honours.
  • Demobilisation and post-war resettlement – many Polish veterans settled in the UK after the war, and these records may provide details on post-war civilian status and residence.

Polish Military Service Record Books (Zeszyty Ewidencyjne)

A crucial element of Polish military documentation, particularly for soldiers who served in the Polish Armed Forces during World War II, is the Zeszyt Ewidencyjny—a personal service record book. These booklets were issued to soldiers and contained detailed information about their military career, including enlistment, promotions, transfers, medical history, disciplinary actions, and demobilisation. For Polish veterans who later served under British command, these documents were often retained and supplemented with additional British military records.

Who Can Request These Records?

The MOD has strict privacy rules regarding access to service records, but relatives of Polish veterans can request copies, provided they can prove a direct relationship or demonstrate legitimate interest. Typically, access is granted to:

  • The veteran themselves (if still alive).
  • The next of kin (e.g., spouse, child, grandchild).
  • Researchers with written permission from the next of kin.

To obtain records, applicants usually need to provide basic details about the veteran, such as their full name, date of birth, service number (if known), and proof of relationship.

How to Apply for Polish Military Records in the UK

The process of obtaining Polish service records from the MOD requires submitting a formal request. This involves:

  1. Completing the MOD Service Records Request Form – This can be downloaded from the official UK government website.
  2. Providing supporting documents – This may include proof of identity, proof of relationship (such as a birth certificate), and any known service details.
  3. Paying the processing fee – The MOD usually charges a small administrative fee for processing requests.

Processing times vary but can take several months, depending on the backlog and complexity of the request.

Why MOD Records Are Essential for Polish Genealogical Research

For descendants of Polish WWII veterans, MOD records offer more than just military details—they provide a deeper understanding of family heritage. Many Polish soldiers, particularly those who fought with the British, never returned to Poland after the war due to Soviet occupation. Instead, they built new lives in the UK, Canada, or other Commonwealth countries. These records can help uncover:

  • Family migration patterns and reasons for settlement in the UK.
  • Connections to military units and wartime comrades.
  • Clues to pre-war lives in Poland, especially if other documents were lost during the war.