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 roster for this division requires patience and a strategic approach. Unfortunately, a single, comprehensive, online roster doesn't exist. The records are fragmented across various archives and databases. This guide will help you navigate the search and uncover the information you need.
Where to Begin Your Search for 29th Infantry Division Rosters?
Several avenues exist for tracing individuals who served in the 29th Infantry Division during WWII. Your success depends on the information you already possess. The more details you have (name, rank, approximate dates of service, unit within the division), the easier your search will be.
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National Archives and Records Administration (NARA): NARA holds a vast collection of military records, including personnel files for soldiers in the 29th Infantry Division. Their website offers online access to some records, but many require in-person visits or ordering copies. Be prepared to provide as much information as possible to expedite your search. Focusing your search on specific unit rosters within the division (e.g., 116th Infantry Regiment) might yield better results.
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Fold3 and Ancestry.com: These subscription-based genealogy websites often contain digitized military records, including unit rosters and personnel files. They may offer access to materials not yet available online through NARA. While these sites charge fees, they offer convenient search functions and often index records for easier browsing.
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State Archives: Depending on the soldier's home state, the state archives might hold additional records related to their service. These could include draft registration cards, enlistment records, or even letters or photographs from their time in the war.
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Military Unit Histories: Books and online resources dedicated to the 29th Infantry Division's history may list key personnel or include unit rosters. These sources are valuable for context and might lead you to other relevant records.
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Online Forums and Communities: Genealogy and military history forums can be a great resource. Experienced researchers often share tips and techniques, and you may find others searching for the same individuals.
What Information Do I Need to Effectively Search for a Soldier's Record?
The more details you provide, the better your chances of finding the information. Try to gather as much of the following as possible:
- Full Name: Including middle name or initial is crucial.
- Rank: Private, Sergeant, Lieutenant, etc.
- Approximate Dates of Service: Knowing the years the individual served will significantly narrow your search.
- Unit within the 29th Infantry Division: Knowing the specific regiment, battalion, or company will dramatically increase your chances of success. The 29th Infantry Division was comprised of various units, such as infantry regiments, artillery battalions, and support units. Pinpointing the specific unit is key.
- Serial Number: If known, the soldier's serial number can quickly locate their record.
Are there any other resources available to help me find the roster information?
Yes, several other avenues can aid your research:
- Libraries: Local libraries, particularly those with strong genealogy or military history collections, may have resources helpful to your search.
- Museums: Museums dedicated to WWII or the 29th Infantry Division may possess archival materials that could be relevant.
Is there a complete online roster of the 29th Infantry Division?
No, a single, complete, and easily accessible online roster for the entire 29th Infantry Division during WWII does not exist. The sheer size of the division and the varied locations where records are stored make a completely compiled online roster impractical.
This comprehensive approach increases your likelihood of successfully locating records for individuals within the 29th Infantry Division. Remember to be patient and persistent – research often requires time and effort. Good luck with your search!
