The three volumes of ‘Bracknell’s Great War Fallen’, written by Andrew Radgick, history officer of The Bracknell Forest Society, document the lives of all the men listed on the war memorials in the borough.
They also contain letters and eye-witness accounts from the front line, plus photos.
Mr Radgick, who spent four years researching and writing the books, said: “It was enjoyable because I am interested in local history and because all the military stuff was new.
“It opened my eyes to the social history of the time, and it came alive.” The three volumes are based on geographical areas, featuring those listed on war memorials in a given area.
Volume one covers Bracknell and Easthampstead; volume two covers the ‘Northern Parishes’ – Binfield, Warfield, Winkfield and Cranbourne, while the third covers Crowthorne and Sandhurst.
Each volume costs £20, and is available via the society website at www.thebracknellforestsociety.org.uk There is also guidance on how to investigate your own family members who took part in the war.
Mr Radgick added: “I have given the background to every single person, including their unit, job, and the circumstances of their death.
“These men deserve to be remembered, and a book is more personal.” Bracknell Forest coun-cillor Michael Gbadebo has donated volumes of Mr Radgick’s work to Great Hollands Library.
Mr Radgick will be giving a series of talks, based on his research, throughout Berkshire in the autumn.
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