First World War

First World War

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United Kingdom

The war to end all wars began, for Britain, on 4 August 1914, and was not to end until 11 November 1918. Some men continued to serve after this date when Britain sent troops to support the White Russians.

In the years from 1908, the British Army offered three forms of recruitment. A recruit could join the army as a professional Regular soldier, or a s a part-time member of the Territorial Force, or as a soldier of the Special Reserve. When the war began, men were encouraged to volunteer 'for the duration'. The army was being massively increased in size to meet the needs of the war strategy, but voluntary methods soon proved insufficient and conscription was introduced on 27 January 1916.

British and Commonwealth Roll of Honour

Army Medal Roll, including Air Force

Navy Medal Roll

Australia

For Australia, as for many nations, the First World War remains the

most costly conflict ever in terms of deaths and casualties. From a population of fewer than five million, 300,000 men enlisted, of which over 60,000 were killed and 156,000 were wounded, gassed or taken prisoner.

The Australian Imperial Force (AIF) was formed in September 1914 of volunteers, its first members sailed in November. One man in five had been born in Britain; many enlisted in the hope of a trip home before seeing active service.

Army Roll

Canada

Shortly after the British declaration of war in August 1914, Canada

offered an initial contingent of 25,000 for service overseas. A second contingent was offered in the autumn of 1914. The 1st Canadian Division was formed from units of the first contingent in January 1915, and was fighting in France the following month.

The Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF), as the army raised during the First World War was designated, grew in the course of the conflict to 619,636, of whom 424,589 served in Europe.

Army Roll

United States of America

On 6 April 1917 United States declares war on Germany.

The United States created a Civilian Draft Registration. Not all those registered served in the Army.

Civilian Draft Registration