Through The Ancestry Looking Glass

This week, Through the Ancestry Looking Glass is proud to present a special series dedicated to our veterans. Every day, we’ll uncover fascinating records from different periods of American military involvement, starting with a focus on contemporary veterans. It’s our way of paying tribute to those who have bravely served and protected our nation.

Today’s Heroes: Discovering Your Family’s Recent Military Records

Who are your family’s heroes who wore the uniform? It’s time to honor their bravery and service by diving into their military records! Whether you’re tracing the legacy of a great-grandparent who fought in World War II or locating the service history of a living relative, military records can provide fascinating insights and deepen your appreciation of their sacrifices.

Ready to embark on this historical journey? Here’s how you can start:

Where to Find Veterans' Records

National Archives (NARA)

• Online: Use the eVetRecs tool on the National Archives website.
• By Mail: Fill out Standard Form 180 (Request Pertaining to Military Records) and mail it to the National Personnel Records Center, 1 Archives Drive, St. Louis, MO 63138.
• By Fax: Fill out Standard Form 180 and fax it to (314) 801-9195.

Veterans Affairs (VA)

• Access your VA records and documents online to manage your benefits and request military service records. Visit VA website.

State and Local Archives

• Check the websites of state and local archives, libraries, and town halls for digitized records or guidance on accessing physical copies.

Historical Societies

• Local historical societies often have unique records that can be invaluable.

Types of Records You Can Request

• DD Form 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty): Contains details about the service, including dates of service, duty stations, and character of discharge.
• Military Medical and Health Records: Document the veteran’s medical history during their service.
• Official Military Personnel File (OMPF): Comprehensive information about the veteran’s military career.
• Replacement Medals: If the veteran lost or misplaced their medals, replacements can be requested.

Requesting Records for Deceased Veterans

Next of kin, such as surviving spouses, children, parents, siblings, and other authorized representatives, can request these records. Deceased veterans’ records can be located through the same key resources mentioned above.

The Importance of DD Form 214

A Report of Separation is generally issued when a service member performs active duty or at least 90 consecutive days of active duty training. This document contains information needed to verify military service for benefits, retirement, employment, and membership in veterans’ organizations. It includes:

• Entry and Release Details: Date and place of entry into and release from active duty.
• Home Addresses: At the time of entry and after separation.
• Last Duty Assignment and Rank: Military job specialty, education, and decorations received.
• Service Details: Total creditable service, foreign service credited, and separation information.

May your detective work in uncovering these records be as fulfilling as the pride in knowing your family had brave men and women who served our country. Be sure to check back tomorrow as we delve into the fascinating history and records of the U.S. Military Draft. Happy sleuthing!

Happy researching!