THE Daily Echo is planning to commemorate two hugely significant military anniversaries – and we need to hear from you.

This summer, 100 years will have passed since the outbreak of the First World War, while June marks the 70th anniversary of D-Day.

We would like to hear your family stories, information and pictures connected to both.

The First World War began when Austria declared war on Serbia in July 28 1914, with Britain declaring war on Germany on August 4.

The total death toll from both sides amounted to almost 10 million by the time the Armistice was signed in November 1918.

June 6 will see commemorations to mark 70 years since D-Day, the Allied invasion of France.

Dorset and Hampshire played a vital role in the build-up to Operation Overload. Troops poured into the two counties ahead of the embarkation, with 1.5 million American servicemen in the south coast.

In Bournemouth, civilian visits were banned and most hotels were in use by the military. Aircrew trained in dinghy survival in the Pier Approach baths, while anti-aircraft guns were sited on high buildings and George VI reviewed airmen in the Pavilion.

In Poole, the first Royal Marine commandos trained at the amphibious warfare centre HMS Turtle, while Bolson’s and Newman’s shipyards built landing craft around the clock.

Poole was the embarkation point for tens of thousands of troops, with the US army taking over quays, yards and yacht clubs. More than 100 anti-aircraft guns protected the town.

RAF Sopley was a radar tracking centre while USAF Thunderbolts were based at nearby RAF Winkton.

We would like to hear about your connections with both these momentous anniversaries.

Were you a part of the Allied operation on D-Day? Do you have a relative who was? Or can you provide pictures and family stories about a relative who served in the First World War?

Please email andy.martin@bournemouthecho.co.uk, call 01202 411293 or write to us at Newsdesk, Richmond Hill, Bournemouth, BH2 6HH.