One of the most important offshoots of family history research is that our discoveries resurrect memories of our forebears that had been long-forgotten, and making a detailed record ensures they are kept alive for future generations.

As a result, everyone at YFT is alarmed at how little the next generation knows about World War II, an event that has had a major impact on every family in Britain since.

According to new research, 22% of under-16s don’t know if their family members were involved in the War, and what's more, 27% aren’t bothered if stories about their family’s War experiences are forgotten.

To me World War II has always been one of the most fascinating periods of history, and I especially love finding out about my family's incredible experiences during the conflict, from relatives fighting in North Africa to others escaping on the last boat to leave Malta in 1942. What's more I plan to make sure these stories are kept alive for generations to come.

No matter where the blame lies for this shocking lack of interest and knowledge – the results also show that 13% of children think World War III has already taken place – we must get the next generation interested in such important events, and continue to keep the memory of our heroic forebears – from WWII and before – alive.

The research was undertaken by Leger Holidays, which offers trips to the battlefields of northern France. It is currently marking the 65th anniversary of the D-Day landings with the Keep the Memories Alive campaign to educate people on World War II and their relatives’ part in it. You can ensure personal stories, memories, anecdotes and memoirs are never forgotten by posting them here.

Adam