Combined Military Services Museum

The Story Behind The Combined Military Services Museum

The Combined Military Services Museum's origins can be traced back to a summer afternoon in 1968. As a seven-year-old boy, the museum's founder, Dr Richard Joseph Wooldridge, was sitting in the back of his father's car with his sister when he spotted a 1937 pattern backpack in a ditch. He begged his father to stop the car, and after inspecting the abandoned pack, which was filled with empty paint cans, he persuaded his parents to let him take it home. This marked the beginning of his lifelong passion for collecting military artefacts.

As the years passed, and Richard's relatives realised his serious interest in their military items, he was inundated with more and more items. As a teenager, with a little more money in his pocket, he transformed his bedroom into a mini museum, much to his mother's dismay. Soon, he and his friends were scouring the local woods, fields, and beaches with metal detectors, uncovering a Dornier 17Z, Spitfire, and countless rounds of ammunition and shrapnel. By the time he started working and earning a steady income, his collection had grown significantly, and he was still discovering new artefacts from family and friends.

Unique Collections and Exhibits

The Combined Military Services Museum is home to an extensive range of military-related items. Visitors can explore the Donnington Firearms Collection, featuring weapons used and captured by the British Army from the late 19th century through to the early 21st century. The museum also boasts an impressive Military Intelligence Collection, showcasing operational spy equipment used in various conflicts and missions.

The Special Air Service (SAS) Collection features an array of 'Special Forces' equipment, including the iconic 'black kit' worn by the SAS on various missions. The Artillery and Munitions Collection displays a vast range of military projectiles, from artillery shells to missiles, while the Uniforms and Personal Equipment Collection showcases a comprehensive array of military uniforms and equipment from Victorian times through to the Gulf Wars.

Educational and Engaging Exhibits

The museum houses an excellent range of Home Front artefacts, providing an engaging and informative insight into civilian life during times of war. One of the museum's most popular exhibits is the Operation Frankton: Cachalot Canoe display, which tells the story of one of the most daring and dangerous missions of WW2.

The museum's Arms and Armour Collection, 1800BC - 1800AD, comprises a comprehensive display of English and early European arms and armour, providing a fascinating glimpse into the history of warfare. With so many exhibits and collections, the museum offers something of interest for everyone, young and old, making it an ideal destination for families, school trips, and history enthusiasts alike.

Connect with the Museum

Visitors are encouraged to connect with the museum through its various social media platforms, such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, Tripadvisor, and Sketchfab. These channels offer a wealth of information about the museum, its collections, and upcoming events.

The museum also has a newsletter to keep visitors updated on the latest news, events, and exhibits. By subscribing, visitors can stay informed about what's happening at the museum and be the first to hear about any upcoming special events or announcements.