World War Two

Three women were recognised for their courageous conduct in the aftermath of a deadly air raid during the Battle of Britain.

Codebreakers, codemakers, balloon barrage operators – the roles for women during the Second World War were as varied as they were vital.

With those simple words, telegraphed to his wife Muriel, Flight Lieutenant Eric "James" Brindley Nicolson downplayed the magnitude of his award. 

After surviving the Blitz as a teenaged boy, there was only one thing on Fred Hammond's mind when he turned 17 – join the RAF!

For some Victory in Japan was a more muted celebration, in contrast to the jubilation of Victory in Europe Day. WAAF air woman Joan Fraser tells her story.

For troops like Corporal Ron Short, fighting on the Eastern Front, the declaration of peace on VJ Day on August 15 signalled real change.