Keith Watson was a carpentry apprentice before he was called up into the Royal Norfolk Regiment for his National Service. His first posting was on the Yugoslav/ Italian border in 1952. When he returned home, he served as batman to the Regimental Sergeant Major, a role that kept him out of trouble until he arrived in Korea. On arrival, Keith was moved to B company and sent to the frontline. He gives a first-hand account of life on the hills in Korea, which mostly involved: digging trenches, keeping warm, and trying to avoid the mosquitoes. Keith details the configuration of barbed wire fences and mines in No Man’s Land and how, as a patrolman you had to be very aware of how to navigate these defences. He recalls being sent to a small hill in No Man’s Land nicknamed “the island” to survey the enemy – the hill was very exposed, and Keith counts himself lucky not to have been attacked. Keith served the maximum of 12 months in Korea and was pleased to be sent home. His interview culminates with a moving poem dedicated to soldiers who served in Korea.

Ian Hammerton joined the Royal Tank Regiment in 1939, and started out as a trooper before advancing to officer after training at Sandhurst. Skilled in operating Sherman flail tanks for mine-clearing, his regiment developed innovative tactics, including a system to clean tank periscopes, which inspired modern windscreen washers. Ian played a crucial role in the D-Day invasion, enduring rigorous preparations and the chaos of landing under fire. His primary task was to clear beach obstacles, despite seasickness and witnessing heavy casualties. After D-Day, Ian's regiment continued through Normandy, participating in key operations like Operation Goodwood and the advance towards Falaise. He recounts the challenges of night attacks, close encounters with the enemy, and significant losses on both sides. Ian's vivid memories include the tragic loss of comrades, encounters with wounded enemy soldiers, and accidental bombings by Allied forces. His story reflects the resilience and dedication required to navigate the brutal realities of World War II combat.

At only seventeen years old Wendy Joined the WRAC in 1972. Driven by her desire to travel, she joined the army as a communications operator and her interview provides a fascinating insight into the processes, and complications, of being a young woman in a military environment. Wendy recalls the strict routines at Guildford and the excitement of her passing out parade following the first six weeks of training. In her specialised training, Wendy discusses the complexity of the communications machinery and the development of technologies throughout her time as an operator. Beginning with T-100s, Wendy describes the transition into T-15 Telex machines in the late 1970s. Reflecting on the WRAC Wendy speaks fondly of her travels to Rheindahlen, Hong Kong, Australia, Cyprus and later Edinburgh. During this time she faced constant IRA threats, Cold War tensions and feelings of discontent that erupted with the onset of the Falklands. She speaks passionately on the importance of the WRAC as an emerging space for women to push beyond their societal expectations during a period of great change.