How can I find my Grandfathers World War II service records?

Answer 1

Hey Mike D,

Here are the most popular places to visit on the internet. You did not say what country, so I gave you the US and UK sites.

Answer 2

If your grandfather is still living this may not be possible... Military records can be requested by individuals who served or their decendants.

http://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records/get-service-records.html

In the event he has passed on, you will need a few specifics about him to get a copy of his DD214 [this is the document the USA gives a soldier when they are separated from duty]

1. Name used in service
2. Service number or Social Security number [see my note below on this]
3. General dates served [ie month/year]
4. Rank [enlisted or officer]
5. Branch of service [Army, Navy, Airforce, Marine etc]


*****to get a SSN [social security number] of a deceased person, you can look them up on the social Security Death index
http://genealogy.about.com/od/free_genealogy/a/ssdi.htm

Finally you will need to give a reason for your request...

Once you complete the questions on line, you can sign the form and then either fax or mail it in. If your grandfather is still lliving he will need to sign the document. If he has passed, but has children living, you may want to ask one of them to sign..... since they would be a closer relation.....

Now to the good stuff... the DD214 is not all enclusive, but it will have his rank at discharge, whether he served overseas, all of the medals/awards he got, and general info on his character of service. It may connect you with his Unit/Batallion etc. Once you have that information you will need to actually research a little on WW2 to see where his particular group served [if you are so inclined]. The library of Congress has a Veteran's history program that may be of help
http://www.loc.gov/vets//

Answer 3

Maybe you could find them on World Vital Records. Start here:

http://www.worldvitalrecords.com/newsletter3.aspx?utm_source=tm3

Hope you can find them!

Answer 4

document a Freedom of information request with the dep. of the military and the dep. of Veterans Affairs. make sure to locate your relative as deceased and provide as a lot information confirming that as attainable, so that you do not run afoul of the privateness Act.