The Watson Collection.

Oxford University’s remarkable WWII archive.

On 15 August 2025, to mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, Oxford University will publish The Watson Collection, an extraordinary archive of over 2,600 newly digitised wartime items that capture one of the most complete and personal accounts of the Second World War. It provides a rare dual perspective on the war: the harrowing experiences of Frank Watson, an RAF serviceman captured by Japanese forces in 1942, and the unwavering resilience of his wife May, who waited over four years for his return.