Writing Military Memoirs

Discover how and why to write a military memoir in this one-day workshop delivered in partnership with Reading Force.

Why write a military memoir? Whether it's for personal reasons, developmental goals or to commemorate a loved one, the motives for writing military memoirs are as varied as the Armed Forces themselves.

In this expert-led workshop, you will explore the processes, outcomes and impact of recording and sharing experiences of Forces life.

Whether you have served yourself, been part of a military family, or are simply fascinated by someone else’s life, this day will help you take things further.

Download a copy of the programme with a full list of biographies of the day’s speakers.

Programme

10.15am - 10.40am

Introduction by Professor Alison Baverstock

• Aims and objectives
• Outcomes and benefits of writing a memoir
• Professor Meg Jensen (video contribution) on writing to relieve trauma and promote therapeutic benefits

10.40am - 11.15am

Why military lives spark particular interest

• General Lord David Richards, former Chief of the Defence Staff and author of 'Taking Command' (Headline, 2014)

11.15am - 11.30am

Comfort break

11.30am - 12.15pm

First-hand feedback: how it feels to write a memoir

• Patrick Hennessey, author of 'The Junior Officers' Reading Club: Killing Time and Fighting Wars' (Penguin, 2011)
• Bee Kenchington, author of 'HMS Hood' (Arcturus Press, 2004), a memoir about her brother using inherited letters from various parties (recorded contribution)
• Alison Hill, author of 'Pauline Gower, Pioneering Leader of the Spitfire Women' (The History Press, 2022)

12.15am - 1.00pm

Working with collaborators and publishers

• Tom Martin, author of 'Falklands Gunner' (Pen & Sword, 2017)
• Charles Hewitt, CEO of Pen & Sword Publishers

1.00pm - 1.45pm

Lunch break

1.45pm - 2.00pm

Resources and support

• Professor Alison Baverstock explains how to start your writing journey, and why you might get more (free) support than you anticipate.

2.00pm - 3.45pm

Researching and writing military memoirs

• Matilda Greig, National Army Museum: The History of Memoir Writing
• Hannah Tame, National Army Museum: Understanding the Role of the Archivist
• Dr Holly Greenland: Setting Your Writing Goals

3.45pm - 4.00pm

What happens next?

• Closing questions and consideration of options