In Their Own Words

Discover a selection of remarkable stories drawn from the Museum’s rich archival and library collections and told from the soldiers' own perspectives.
A soldier writing home while leaning against a ruined wall, Liévin, c1917

Discover a selection of remarkable stories drawn from the Museum’s rich archival and library collections and told from the soldiers' own perspectives.

The National Army Museum’s archive and library are full of personal stories. Captured in letters, diaries, memoirs and oral histories, these narratives provide valuable insights into the experiences of soldiers and the history of the Army.

Drawing on these unique sources, this pop-up display will highlight some of the Museum’s most remarkable accounts of soldiering, both close to home and far afield, from the turn of the 18th century to the present day.

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Story

In Their Own Words: Subedar Sitaram Pande

Sitaram Pande served with the Bengal Army from 1812 to 1860, taking part in many important campaigns. His memoirs provide a rare and precious glimpse into life in the Indian Army during the 19th century.

Story

In Their Own Words: Captain Louis Nolan

Louis Nolan was an ambitious officer and an expert in cavalry warfare. He kept a journal during his service in the Crimean War and achieved notoriety for his role in the infamous Charge of the Light Brigade.

Story

In Their Own Words: Staff Sergeant Chantelle Taylor

Chantelle Taylor served as a combat medic during the recent conflict in Afghanistan. In 2008, while on patrol in Helmand Province, she became the first female British soldier to kill an enemy combatant at close quarters.