The 29th Infantry Division, a distinguished unit of the United States Army, played a pivotal role in World War II. Its history is etched in the sacrifices and triumphs of countless soldiers, making the search for individual records within its WWII roster a significant endeavor for many. This article aims to guide you through the process of finding information about the 29th Infantry Division's personnel during WWII, addressing common questions and highlighting the available resources.
Where Can I Find the 29th Infantry Division WWII Roster?
Unfortunately, a single, comprehensive, online roster for the entire 29th Infantry Division during WWII doesn't exist. The sheer volume of personnel and the decentralized nature of record-keeping during that era make compiling such a database a monumental task. However, several avenues offer promising avenues for research:
1. The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA):
NARA is the primary repository for military records in the United States. They hold a wealth of information, including personnel files for many soldiers who served in the 29th Infantry Division. Accessing these records often requires knowing the soldier's name, date of birth, and service number. Their website provides detailed instructions on how to request records and navigate their vast archives. You can expect some delays due to the volume of requests they receive.
2. Ancestry.com and Fold3:
Subscription-based genealogy websites like Ancestry.com and Fold3 offer extensive collections of military records, including some related to the 29th Infantry Division. These sites often index and digitize records, making searching easier. While not guaranteeing a complete roster, they often contain unit rosters, personnel records, and related documents that can lead to information about specific soldiers.
3. State Archives and Historical Societies:
Depending on the soldier's home state, the state archives or historical societies may hold additional records, such as draft registration cards or local newspaper articles mentioning their service. These resources often complement the information available at the national level.
4. Unit Histories and Regimental Records:
Historians and researchers have compiled unit histories for the 29th Infantry Division, which may contain lists of personnel or at least information about individual units within the division. These histories are sometimes available through libraries, historical societies, or online bookstores.
What Information Do I Need to Find Someone in the 29th Infantry Division Roster?
The more information you have, the easier your search will be. Ideally, you should aim to gather:
- Full Name: Including middle name or initial.
- Date of Birth: This is crucial for narrowing down search results.
- Approximate Service Dates: Knowing when the soldier served will help you focus your search.
- Home State: This can help narrow your search within state archives.
- Unit Designation: If known (e.g., specific regiment, company, battalion). Knowing the specific unit within the 29th Infantry Division will significantly reduce your search scope.
What if I Only Know a Partial Name or Limited Information?
If you only have partial information, your search becomes more challenging. You can still try using wildcard searches (* or ?) in online databases, focusing on the known elements. Additionally, exploring related records like casualty lists (if applicable) might provide clues.
Are there any other resources available to help me find information about the 29th Infantry Division?
Yes. Consider exploring these avenues:
- Military Museums: Museums focused on WWII or the 29th Infantry Division may have archives or collections containing relevant information.
- Veteran's Organizations: Groups dedicated to WWII veterans may have resources or members who can assist in your search.
- Online Forums and Communities: Dedicated genealogy or military history forums can be a valuable source of information and assistance.
Finding information about soldiers from the 29th Infantry Division's WWII roster requires persistence and resourcefulness. However, by utilizing the resources outlined above and employing a systematic approach, you significantly increase your chances of uncovering the details you seek, honoring the legacy of these brave individuals.
