For London-based secretary, Peggy Jacobsen, joining a cause in the Second World War was “the obvious thing to do”. Her mission to help was set in motion shortly after a friend of her father’s came to dinner one evening. Peggy’s journey as a member of the FANY began in the summer of 1939, “roughing it” at Mytchett Camp, where she trained for the corps. After that, her unit became “really and truly mobilised”. The FANYs were originally founded as motor companies. Some members possessed technical skills, which made them good mechanics. Others, including Peggy, showcased their excellence at typewriters. Following a split that took place within the corps, Peggy was absorbed into the group known as ‘Free FANYs’, where she worked on administrative tasks in the office. Despite the name, Peggy quipped that she “Didn’t exactly feel very free”. Peggy also became involved with the Polish unit in Scotland and participated in the formation of FANY Headquarters Scotland. Here, the Polish unit provided necessities, including ambulances and drivers, as well as welfare services to the Poles. Throughout the interview, Peggy fondly remembers many friends and fellow FANY members, people she “will never forget”.   The publication of this previously unseen interview was made possible thanks to a grant from The Gerry Holdsworth Special Forces Charity, to mark 80 years since the closure of the Special Operations Executive (SOE) in January 1946. 

At only seventeen years of age, Lieann joined the WRAC so she could travel and see the world. Lieann describes working hard at Guildford and her amazement at the rate in which young women transformed into soldiers within only six weeks. After excelling in her aptitude tests she was posted to Catterick to train as a data telegraphist. Lieann discusses developments in technology and the transition to computers in 1989. She also describes the introduction of weapons training across WRAC trades, and how she could feel the change happening within the female corps. During her time in communications, Lieann was posted to the nuclear bunker in Wilton and recalls the enhanced security measures in place during Cold War exercises. She was then posted to the Falklands and later Cyprus where she re-badged with the Royal Signals. At this point the WRAC had been disbanded and Lieann permanently signed on to the ninth Signal Regiment. During her time in Cyprus she fell pregnant and continued to serve until her last few weeks. She was one of the first women to serve in the army whilst pregnant, and although this marked an important moment in military history - Lieann describes the lack of emotional, financial and even uniform support offered to her during her pregnancy. A woman who truly pushed boundaries, we thank Lieann for her brilliant interview and her candour surrounding women's experiences within the WRAC.

Jim Grundy tells of his memories from his service during the Korean War. From humble beginnings in Eccles, Lancashire to the perils of Korea, between Busan and Daegu. Born into a poor family, the early years of Jim’s life were difficult and he was glad to join the army as part of the Army Catering Corps. He adjusted to army life well, after the struggles of initial training, which he recalls and in 1949 was sent to Aldershot – his first time leaving Lancashire, before being stationed at Rhyl. It was here that the army discovered that he had trained previously as an undertaker; he was assigned a very special job and dispatched to Korea, to work as a body hunter. Jim describes his first impressions of arriving in a new country and the amicable relationship between British troops and Koreans. He talks with pride about the work done by the small group of five unarmed men, of which he was a part; who worked closely together, helped each other and established a close bond.  The work was emotionally testing, the conditions horrendous. Particular emphasis is given to the appreciation these men received, despite not being on the front line. An arm injury from an incendiary shot, put an end to Jim’s time in the Korean war and allowed him to return home. Jim’s story is one of fortitude and friendship in a heartbreaking job.