Born and raised in Bristol and with his heart set on wanting to serve with the RAF, John Skene actually found himself serving with the Army on the frontlines of WWII. After finishing his basic training, John's story begins in Yorkshire, he talks about the tactics used by British defences when preparing a coastline for invasion. Follow John's story as he travels from France to Burma fighting the Axis forces across the world. Learn about the unique and often highly dangerous strategies of the British Army which almost result in John's death; the exotic illnesses faced by soldiers while fighting abroad; and just how much damage a single cigarette can do.

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.