Tracing relatives who served in World War I can be an exciting but challenging endeavor. Here are some steps you can take to research your family's military history:
1. Gather Family Information:
- Start by collecting basic details of your relative, such as their full name, birth date, place of birth, and any military service numbers or regiments they may have been associated with.
2. Military Records:
- The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) in the United States holds extensive records related to World War I. Their website provides access to military records, including enlistment and service records, medical records, and casualty reports.
3. Online Databases:
- Websites like Ancestry, Findmypast, and Fold3 offer online resources for military research, including digitized war records, personal histories, and military documents.
4. Unit Histories:
- Many military units published histories or memoirs after the war. These books often contain information about the unit's activities, including lists of soldiers who served.
5. Commonwealth War Graves Commission:
- For those researching relatives who served in the British or Commonwealth forces, the Commonwealth War Graves Commission website provides information on war casualties, including their grave locations and commemorations.
6. Local Archives:
- Local libraries, historical societies, or archives may have records related to local soldiers who served in the war.
7. Personal Correspondence:
- If your family possesses any letters, diaries, or photographs from the period, they may offer insights into your relative's experiences during World War I.
8. Oral Histories:
- Reach out to any older relatives who may have personal recollections or memories of your ancestor's service. Their stories can provide valuable information.
9. Census Records:
- Census records from before, during, and after World War I can reveal information about your relative's family situation, occupation, and residence.
10. Cemetery Records:
- Local cemetery records may indicate where a relative is buried or commemorated, and may include additional information about their military service.
11. Memorial Websites:
- Websites such as the Australian War Memorial and the New Zealand Cenotaph provide online memorials that list the names of fallen soldiers.
12. War Memorials:
- Visit local war memorials or monuments that may have the names of those who served from your area, including your relative.
Remember to be patient, as researching military records can be time-consuming. However, with persistence, you may uncover valuable information about your relative's service and their role in World War I.