‘Mistaken patriotism’ Frederick Hill, the South Midland Field Ambulance, on being asked why he joined the British Army

Thousands of men from Bristol volunteered to join the Armed Forces. Nationally, over 2.5 million men volunteered. Women also volunteered to support the war effort. In 1916, conscription was introduced as more men were needed. All physically able men aged 18 to 41 were obliged to enlist. Men in certain jobs were exempt, if their work was considered crucial to the war effort. Conscientious Objectors refused to fight on political, moral or religious grounds.