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Hello and thanks for taking the time to read this.
I've long had an interest in old photographic images, but now concentrate on collecting original military photo albums, preferably to named individuals. I consider it an honour to own and look after these albums and the recorded memories within. I look for authenticity and albums which tell a story - these are real treasures. I enjoy doing what little online research I can on the albums - I am no expert - with me it is definitely a case of the more I learn, the less I know!
Many photos contain so much detail, often not apparent on first viewing with the naked eye. Computer technology can reveal great hidden detail. There is something special in viewing the world 'through their eyes'; for me much more meaningful and realistic than merely reading a book or watching a TV documentary.
I'm not someone wishing to glorify war. There is great poignancy in looking at images showing the uttter devastation and futility of war. There is human tragedy in the thousands of lives lost. One of my albums features a young German sailor, Werner Posel, going through his tough basic training; standing on the frozen deck of a battleship; laughing and joking with his mates. He was killed when British bombs hit the engine room he was working in. His parents later added photos of his grave. A tragic story of loss no doubt repeated a million times over.
Another collection of photos and memoirs offered on CD tells the story of W H P Owen, who served in the RAF on Malta during the siege. He was stuck on the island for 2 years and experienced the horrors of heavy bombing. He expresses his longing for home and the monotony of war.
My favourite album belonged to WO Friedrich Pohl, a WW1 uboat crew member. We see merchant ships being attacked with the sub's surface gun, but only after the crew have been allowed to leave safely. Later in WW1, the uboats were ordered to torpedo all vessels, leaving no survivors. We then see the uboat officers enjoying tea and biscuits on the conningtower - a complete contrast to the earlier images.
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