The 29th Infantry Division, nicknamed the "Blue and Gray," played a crucial role in World War II, participating in major campaigns across Europe. Finding information on specific soldiers within the division's roster requires a multi-pronged approach, as no single, readily accessible online database exists. This guide will outline the resources and strategies to help you successfully research the 29th Infantry Division roster from WWII.
What Records Exist for the 29th Infantry Division?
Unfortunately, a complete, searchable roster of every soldier in the 29th Infantry Division is not publicly available online. The records are spread across various archives and require some detective work. However, several valuable resources exist:
1. National Archives and Records Administration (NARA):
NARA holds the most comprehensive collection of military records. You can access many digitized records online through their catalog, but many records still need to be accessed in person or through their research services. Searching for specific soldiers by name and unit (29th Infantry Division) is a starting point. Relevant record types to search for include:
- Individual Personnel Files: These files contain a wealth of information about a soldier's service, including enlistment data, assignments, decorations, and medical records.
- Unit Records: These records document the organizational structure, movements, and actions of the 29th Infantry Division. They can provide context and help you locate individual soldier records.
- Casualty Records: These records document soldiers who were killed, wounded, or missing in action.
2. Ancestry.com and Fold3.com:
These subscription-based genealogy websites contain digitized military records, including some related to the 29th Infantry Division. They are valuable for finding enlistment records, draft registration cards, and other potentially helpful documents. However, completeness varies.
3. State Archives:
Since many soldiers were from specific states, the respective state archives may hold additional records, such as draft registration cards or service records. Check the archives of states with large numbers of 29th Infantry Division members.
4. Library of Congress:
The Library of Congress often holds unique collections related to specific military units and campaigns. Their online catalog may reveal relevant materials, including photographs and unit histories.
How to Effectively Search for a Specific Soldier:
Effective searching involves using a combination of known information:
- Full Name: Using the soldier's full name (including middle name or initial) significantly improves search accuracy.
- Date of Birth: This is a crucial identifier, narrowing down search results.
- Serial Number: If known, the soldier's serial number will pinpoint their records.
- Home State: Knowing the soldier's state of origin can help focus searches on relevant state archives.
- Unit Designation: Specifying the 29th Infantry Division (and potentially specific regiments or battalions within the division) is crucial.
What if I Only Have Partial Information?
If you only have partial information, consider the following:
- Start Broad, Then Narrow: Begin with broader searches, gradually narrowing your criteria as you find more clues.
- Use Keyword Variations: Try different spellings or variations of names and dates.
- Check for Nicknames or Aliases: If the soldier used nicknames, try searching with those too.
- Network with Researchers: Consider joining online genealogy forums or contacting military history groups. Others may have already researched the 29th Infantry Division and might be able to provide assistance.
Beyond the Roster: Contextualizing the Soldier's Service
Once you locate records, consider looking beyond the basic roster information. Explore the surrounding documents to gain a more complete picture of the soldier's service, including:
- Campaign Participation: Which battles and campaigns did they participate in?
- Awards and Decorations: What recognition did they receive for their service?
- Letters and Diaries: These personal accounts offer invaluable insight into the soldier's experiences.
Finding information about soldiers in the 29th Infantry Division requires dedicated research, but the potential rewards – uncovering the story of an individual's wartime service – are significant. Utilize these resources and strategies effectively, and remember patience is key in this rewarding endeavor.
