Can't you just look up his personal records?
Often not. On July 12, 1973, a fire at the National Personnel Records Center in St. Louis destroyed about 80% of Army personnel files for soldiers discharged between 1912 and 1960 (and about 75% of Air Force files for 1947 to 1964). Unit records largely survived. So we tell the story of his unit, where it was and what it did, tied to the facts you give us. We never invent details about him.
What records do you use?
Free public records and official histories: National Archives databases (including WWII Army enlistment records), official Army campaign histories and unit lineages, published unit histories, after-action summaries where available, and public-domain maps and photos. Every book includes its sources.
What do I need to send?
Whatever you have: his name, branch, war, and unit if known. Helpful extras: his discharge paper (often a WD AGO 53-55 for WWII or a DD-214 later), photos of patches, medals or uniforms, letters, and enlistment or discharge dates.
Should I black out anything?
Yes. Please black out his Social Security number (and any service number you'd rather not share) before sending. Older papers often list it. We don't need it.
What if I don't know his unit?
Send what you have. Discharge papers usually list it, and patches or photos can narrow it down. Your free preview tells you honestly what we could and couldn't confirm.
Are all the photos of his unit?
Not always. Famous units have many photos; smaller units may have few or none online. We fill in with verified photos from the same battles, places and dates, and label every photo so we never pass one off as his unit when it isn't.
Which wars and branches?
WWII, Korea and Vietnam. Army units have the best surviving records; Navy, Marine Corps and Air Forces units are also possible.
How long does it take?
Free preview within 24 hours. The full PDF in about a week. The printed hardcover ships about 2 to 3 weeks after you approve the PDF.
What's your refund policy?
Every book starts with a free preview so you know what we found before you pay. If we can't confirm enough about his unit to make a full book, we'll tell you and refund you in full. If you're not happy with your PDF, tell us within 14 days and we'll revise it or refund you. Printed books are made to order, so once you've approved the PDF and it goes to print we can't refund the hardcover, but we'll replace any book that arrives damaged or misprinted.
Are you affiliated with the military or the National Archives?
No. We are an independent research service.