Finding Information About a Relative Who Served in World War II: A Comprehensive Guide

Dealing with the loss of important military records can be a daunting task, especially when trying to find information about a relative who served in the military during World War II. There are several resources available, including governmental and commercial sources. This article will guide you through the options and provide insights into the challenges faced during record preservation.

UK Servicemen Records

In the UK, obtaining a copy of a relative's service record from the Ministry of Defence (MOD) can be an effective way to gather information. The MOD does not charge for this service, but be prepared to wait a few months for the material to be retrieved and processed. However, if you prefer a quicker service, you can opt for commercial genealogy websites. Keep in mind that these sites may charge fees for their services, particularly during events such as the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Some genealogy websites offer free access during specific commemorative periods.

US Military Records

If your relative served in the US Military, you can write to the National Archives and the Veterans Administration (VA). They offer access to military records and can provide a wealth of information. However, you may need to provide proof of the relationship and the veteran's identity. Details on what type of proof is required can be found on their website.

History of Lost Military Records

The loss of military records is a significant challenge, especially in the US. On July 12, 1973, the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) in St. Louis caught fire, leading to the loss of millions of records. This event stands as the worst archival disaster in US history, resulting in the loss of approximately 19 million veterans' records. About 17 million records were completely lost, including an estimated 80% of Army personnel discharged between 1912 and 1960 and 75% of Air Force personnel whose service ended between 1947 and 1964.

Out of the 19 million lost records, only 6.5 million documents were saved. The NPRC has been working tirelessly to help veterans and their families recreate these lost service records. With a dedicated team of 25 people working on preserving the surviving records and another 40 people handling incoming requests, the NPRC remains a critical resource for those seeking information.

Current Status and Preservation Efforts

The National Personnel Records Center continues to handle over 5000 requests daily from veterans or their next of kin. The center relies on information from other government agencies and veteran groups to provide proof of service. In most cases, the NPRC can issue official documents if they can pinpoint a date of entry or discharge. However, if no information is found, the veteran is essentially considered to have served non-existent.

Despite the loss, the efforts of the NPRC and other organizations have significantly helped in preserving the memory and records of military service. Such resources are invaluable for researching and honoring the contributions of those who served in World War II and subsequent conflicts.

In summary, while there are challenges in locating information about a relative who served in the military during World War II, numerous resources are available. Whether you seek information through governmental or commercial sources, understanding the history of lost records can help navigate the process more effectively.