Event    From 1916  To 1963

national service / military conscription

Categories: Armed Forces

Military conscription has existed for two periods in modern times, related to WW1 and WW2 respectively: 1916 - 20 ("military service") and 1939 - 60 ("national service" or sometimes "war service"). The last conscription term ended in 1963.

In WW2, by 1942 all male British subjects between 18 and 51 years old and all females 20 to 30 years old resident in Great Britain and the Isle of Man were liable to be called up, with some exemptions, such as married women, clergy,  police, etc. Initially the service period was 18 months but it was extended to 2 years.

Many saw it as an inconvenience, as it took them away from their jobs or studies. Whilst for others it was the opportunity for learning new skills. A lot of the recruits saw action in conflicts such as the Korean War.

For contrast see conscientious objectors.

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This section lists the memorials where the subject on this page is commemorated:
national service / military conscription

Commemorated ati

National Service - Greenwich

This plaque honours the national servicemen of of the London Borough of Green...

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National Service - Southwark

National Service This plaque is in recognition by Southwark Council and the P...

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Other Subjects

A. Tompkinson

A. Tompkinson

J. Lyons & Co. Ltd. staff member who died in WW1.

Person, Armed Forces

War dead, WW1
1 memorial
Air Mechanic 2nd Class James Patrick Murphy

Air Mechanic 2nd Class James Patrick Murphy

James Patrick Murphy was born in 1894 in Battersea, London, the third of the four children of Patrick Murphy (b. circa 1857) and Jane Murphy (b. circa 1864). His birth was registered in the 4th qua...

Person, Armed Forces

War dead, WW1
1 memorial
F. L. Lean

F. L. Lean

R.A.F.. Fought but did not die in WW1

Person, Armed Forces

War served, WW1
1 memorial
Able Seaman Arthur Alfred Griffin

Able Seaman Arthur Alfred Griffin

Arthur Alfred Griffin was born on 5 December 1904, one of the eleven children of George James Griffin (1859-1921) and Sarah Ann Griffin née Steel (1868-1951). His birth was registered in the 4th qu...

Person, Armed Forces, Scotland

War dead, WW2
1 memorial