This page is in three parts, so may wish to bookmark it now. The first part contains links that provide what you will need to begin your search for service records. The second part contains links to pages that will connect you to "reunion groups" or "historical associations" that may have the information you seek. The third part has links to help you find an individual via on-line phonebooks.
If you are successful in finding what you were looking for and this page was instrumental, drop me a line at erskinta@email.uc.edu and let me know that my efforts are working.
Good luck in your search!
-Tim
National Personnel Records Center, Military Personnel Records - This is the Website for the National Archives' Military Records Center. It details how to get information from them. It also details not only what records were lost in the 1973 fire, but also how they've managed to find some back-up sources of information. This is a great place to start your search.
Air Force Historical Research Agency - Here is another very good place to get details on who to contact for information, as well as what you will need to get it. This information applies to all branches of the military, not just the Air Force.
Dad's War: Finding and Telling Your Father's WWII Story - by Wes Johnston. Wes gives seminars and has published a book on locating veterans data. At this site you will find out how to sign up for a seminar or how to purchase his book. There are also many good links on his page for tracking down information on the Web.
Once you've found out what unit your friend or family member served in, you will then need to find out if there is a "Reunion Group" or "Historical Association" for that unit. They will probably have detailed information on the person you are looking for. They are also great places to meet old friends or service buddies and to make new friends.
Check out the pages linked below. They are pages of military and veteran's organization links. There are an astounding number of resources on-line and these pages go a long way to cataloging them. And if you can't find the exact unit you're looking for, DO NOT be discouraged. Only a small percentage of reunion and veterans organizations are on-line. So contact one that is similar. There is a good chance they will be able to point you in the right direction. I personally get several e-mails per week asking for information about 8th Air Force Bomber and Fighter Groups other than the 487th. I am more than willing to give the information requested, or point the person in the right direction.
Army Alumni Organizations - Start here! All branches of the service.
Canadian Forces College - War, Peace and Security Guide
My WWII and aviation links page
American Legion Post 180, Vienna, VA
Now, if you are looking for a particular person, you may also wish to try the following links. They are essentially 'telephone books' on the internet.
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