The Second World War

Find out how London firefighters fought to keep the city safe from enemy attack.

Uncover their actions

Firefighters of the Second World War

From the formation of the Auxiliary Fire Service through the bravery of the Blitz, discover our history during WWII.

Auxiliary Fire Service Firewoman Anne Brasnell

On the first night of the blitz bombing raids in 1940, Anne acted with bravery and courage as her sub station received a direct hit. These actions were recognised by King George VI and Prime Minister Winston Churchill

Black ‘front liners’ and fire service personnel during the London Blitz

Historian Stephen Bourne tells us about some of the Black people involved in the fire service in the 1930s and 40s
Men and women of the Auxiliary Fire Service, group photo taken in around 1941

The Old Palace School Bombing Incident

Researcher Paul Chiddicks shares details about the bombing of the Old Palace School an Auxiliary Fire Service substation on 19 April 1941 during the Second World War

D-Day - Our top secret mission

In the lead up to D-Day the National Fire Service were part of the top secret mission, ‘Operation Colour Scheme’