The 29th Infantry Division, nicknamed the "Blue and Gray," played a significant role in World War II, participating in campaigns across Europe. Finding specific names on a WWII 29th Infantry Division roster can be challenging, but with the right resources and strategies, it's achievable. This guide provides a comprehensive look at accessing information and understanding the challenges involved in researching this historical record.
What Records Exist for the 29th Infantry Division Roster?
Unfortunately, a single, easily accessible online roster for the entire 29th Infantry Division during WWII doesn't exist. The records are spread across various archives and repositories, requiring dedicated research. The key sources you'll need to explore include:
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National Archives and Records Administration (NARA): NARA holds the most extensive collection of military records. They possess personnel files, unit rosters (often fragmented), and other documents related to the 29th Infantry Division. Searching their online catalog is crucial, but be prepared for potentially extensive manual searching within the archives themselves.
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State Archives: The states from which many of the soldiers hailed may also hold relevant records, particularly if the soldier's family has contacted them in the past. These archives often have digitized materials or local historical societies with relevant information.
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Fold3 and Ancestry.com (Subscription Services): These subscription-based genealogy websites often index military records, including some related to the 29th Infantry Division. While not a guaranteed resource for complete rosters, they can significantly aid your search by offering indexed names and potentially connecting you with related documents.
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Unit Histories: Histories of the 29th Infantry Division, its regiments, and battalions can provide valuable contextual information and may contain lists of personnel, though often limited. These histories are sometimes available at university libraries and online through booksellers.
Where Can I Find Information About a Specific Soldier in the 29th Infantry Division?
Locating information on a specific soldier requires a methodical approach. Start with what you know:
- Full Name: Use the soldier's full name – including middle initial – to increase search accuracy.
- Date of Birth: This significantly narrows down potential matches within the records.
- Home State or City: Knowing their origin helps to focus your search within relevant archives.
- Military Serial Number: If known, the soldier's serial number is the most direct identifier in military records.
Use this information to search NARA's online catalog and the subscription services mentioned above. Remember to consult multiple resources, as records are often fragmented or incomplete.
What Types of Records Can I Expect to Find?
The records you might discover include:
- Individual Personnel Files: These files contain information such as enlistment records, service records, and discharge papers. They can provide valuable details about a soldier's service history, including unit assignments, awards, and decorations.
- Unit Rosters: These lists typically enumerate personnel within specific units, but their completeness varies considerably.
- Casualty Records: If you are looking for information about a soldier who was killed or wounded, casualty records can offer information on their fate.
- Photographs and Letters: These personal artifacts can offer rich insights into a soldier's experiences.
How Can I Make My Search More Effective?
- Be Patient and Persistent: Finding information about specific soldiers in WWII requires considerable time and effort.
- Utilize Multiple Search Terms: Experiment with different combinations of names, dates, and locations.
- Contact Local Historical Societies: These societies often have collections of local military records and may be able to provide assistance.
- Collaborate with Other Researchers: Connecting with other researchers focused on the 29th Infantry Division can expand your access to information and insights.
Finding information on the 29th Infantry Division roster requires patience and a multi-pronged approach. By utilizing these resources and strategies, you can significantly improve your chances of uncovering valuable information about the soldiers who served in this distinguished division. Remember to respect the privacy of individuals and families while conducting your research.
