The Australian War Memorial (AWM) is a vital resource for anyone researching Australian military history, particularly when trying to locate information about individuals who served in the armed forces. With its extensive database and advanced search tools, the Memorial’s website provides access to detailed records about the men and women who served Australia during times of war and conflict.

Accessing the People Database

The AWM’s advanced search feature for people can be found on their website. This tool allows you to search for detailed records of individuals by name, service number, or other related information. Whether you’re conducting genealogical research, writing a historical account, or simply exploring your family’s connection to Australian military history, the AWM’s people database is an invaluable starting point.

Step 1: Define Your Search

Before you start, gather as much information as possible about the person you’re researching. Key details that can narrow down your search include:

• Name of the individual (full name or partial name)
• Service number (a unique identifier assigned to members of the armed forces)
• Branch of service (e.g., Army, Navy, or Air Force)
• Conflict they participated in (such as World War I, World War II, or the Vietnam War)
• Unit or regiment they were part of

The more specific your search parameters, the easier it will be to locate relevant information. However, if you’re unsure of specific details, you can start with a broad search and refine it later as needed.

Step 2: Navigating the Search Results

Once you enter your search criteria, the database will generate a list of results. Each result typically includes key details like the individual’s full name, service number, rank, and unit. Clicking on a specific record will provide more in-depth information, potentially including:

• Service history
• Honour rolls or medals awarded
• Biographical details
• Associated photographs, letters, or personal records, if available

These records are often linked to other documents or resources within the Australian War Memorial’s archives, such as rolls of honour, war diaries, and databases of official correspondence.

Step 3: Accessing Additional Resources

The AWM isn’t just a repository for military records—it also houses a wealth of supplementary resources that can enrich your research. For example:

• Roll of Honour: This section commemorates Australians who died during military service. If the person you’re researching is listed, their record might include details of their place of death, burial, and family connections.
• Photographs and Artworks: The AWM’s collection includes a vast archive of photographs and artworks, which may include images of individuals, groups, or specific military units.
• War Diaries: Unit diaries provide day-to-day records of military actions and can help contextualise the service history of the person you’re researching.

Step 4: Visiting the Memorial

For those who want to dig deeper, visiting the Memorial in person is a fantastic opportunity to consult original documents and artefacts. While the online database is comprehensive, the physical archives hold even more detailed records, including correspondence, unpublished materials, and personal items donated by veterans and their families.

Step 5: Engage with the Community

The Australian War Memorial’s team of historians and researchers can help with more complex inquiries. You can contact them via their website or attend events and seminars to learn more about their methodologies.

Why Use the AWM to Find People?

The Australian War Memorial’s database is much more than a collection of names and numbers—it’s a memorial to those who served and an educational resource for future generations. By using its advanced search features, you not only uncover the stories of individuals but also gain deeper insight into the sacrifices and contributions made by Australians in times of war.

Whether you’re tracing your ancestry, verifying historical details, or paying tribute to a loved one, the AWM provides a respectful and accessible platform for research.