How do I find military records of my father?

How do I find military records of my father?

As a descendant of a veteran, it’s natural to want to learn more about your father’s military service and experiences. Military records can provide valuable information about his time in the armed forces, including his unit, rank, awards, and even his personal experiences. However, finding these records can be a daunting task, especially if you’re new to genealogical research. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of finding military records of your father.

Step 1: Gather Information

Before you start searching for your father’s military records, gather as much information as possible. This will help you narrow down your search and increase the chances of finding the records you’re looking for. Make a list of the following details:

• Name: Your father’s full name, including any nicknames or aliases.
• Branch: The branch of the military he served in (e.g., Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard).
• Service Dates: The dates of his military service, including the start and end dates.
• Rank: His rank at the time of service.
• Unit: The unit he served in, including the regiment, battalion, or squadron.
• Awards: Any awards or decorations he received during his service.
• Service Number: His military service number, also known as a Social Security Number (SSN) or Personnel Number (PN).

Step 2: Identify the Record Sources

There are several sources where you can find military records, including:

• National Archives and Records Administration (NARA): NARA is the official repository of federal records, including military records. They have a vast collection of records dating back to the American Revolution.
• National Personnel Records Center (NPRC): The NPRC is a part of NARA and is responsible for maintaining records of military personnel who served in the US Armed Forces.
• Veterans Administration (VA): The VA provides access to military records, including personnel records, medical records, and service records.
• Military Branches: Each branch of the military has its own records and archives, which can provide valuable information about your father’s service.

Step 3: Search Online

There are several online resources where you can search for your father’s military records:

• National Archives Online Catalog: The National Archives Online Catalog allows you to search for records by keyword, name, and date.
• NPRC Online Search: The NPRC Online Search allows you to search for records by name, service number, and other criteria.
• VA Online Access to Records: The VA Online Access to Records allows you to search for records by name and service dates.
• Military Branch Websites: Each branch of the military has its own website, which often provides access to records and archives.

Step 4: Request Records

If you’re unable to find the records you’re looking for online, you can request them from the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) or the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC). You can do this by:

• Mailing a Request: Fill out a request form and mail it to the NARA or NPRC with a copy of your identification and payment for the requested records.
• Filing an FOIA Request: If you’re requesting records under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), you’ll need to file a request with the relevant agency.
• Visiting the Archives: If you’re unable to request records online or by mail, you can visit the NARA or NPRC in person and request access to the records.

Step 5: Interpret the Records

Once you receive the records, you’ll need to interpret them to extract the information you’re looking for. Here are some tips to help you:

• Read the Records Carefully: Take your time to read the records carefully, paying attention to dates, names, and places.
• Use a Record Dictionary: If you’re unsure what a particular term or abbreviation means, use a record dictionary or ask for help.
• Keep a Record Log: Keep a record log to track the records you’ve found and the information they contain.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you find military records of your father:

• Be Patient: Finding military records can take time, so be patient and persistent.
• Use Multiple Resources: Don’t rely on a single resource to find your father’s records. Use multiple resources to increase your chances of success.
• Verify Information: Verify the information you find in the records to ensure accuracy.
• Consider Hiring a Professional: If you’re unable to find the records yourself, consider hiring a professional genealogist to help you.

Conclusion

Finding military records of your father can be a rewarding experience, providing valuable insights into his service and experiences. By following these steps and tips, you can increase your chances of finding the records you’re looking for. Remember to be patient, persistent, and thorough in your search, and don’t be afraid to ask for help along the way.

Additional Resources

• National Archives and Records Administration (NARA): www.archives.gov
• National Personnel Records Center (NPRC): www.archives.gov/st-louis/military-personnel
• Veterans Administration (VA): www.va.gov
• Military Branch Websites:

  • Army: www.army.mil
  • Navy: www.navy.mil
  • Air Force: www.af.mil
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  • Marine Corps: www.marines.mil
  • Coast Guard: www.uscg.mil

Table: Military Record Sources

Table: Online Resources

I hope this article helps you find the military records of your father. Remember to be patient, persistent, and thorough in your search, and don’t hesitate to ask for help along the way.