The 29th Infantry Division, a proud part of the United States Army, played a significant role in World War II, earning a distinguished reputation through its participation in numerous critical battles. Researching the individual soldiers who served within its ranks is a deeply personal and rewarding endeavor, connecting us to the human stories behind the historical events. However, accessing complete WWII rosters for the 29th Infantry Division can be challenging. This guide aims to clarify the process and offer some helpful resources.
Where to Find 29th Infantry Division WWII Rosters?
Unfortunately, there isn't a single, centralized online database containing a complete roster for every soldier in the 29th Infantry Division during WWII. The information is spread across various archives and resources, requiring some detective work.
1. National Archives and Records Administration (NARA):
This is the primary source for military records in the United States. NARA holds a vast collection of personnel files, but accessing them requires understanding the organization system and potentially submitting specific requests. Be prepared to provide as much information as possible about the soldier you're searching for, including their full name, approximate date of birth, and any known service numbers. Online searching may provide some information but often leads to requests for detailed information.
2. Fold3 and Ancestry.com:
These subscription-based genealogy websites often index military records, potentially including some information about soldiers in the 29th Infantry Division. While not guaranteed to have complete rosters, they can be valuable tools for finding individual records or partial lists. It's crucial to note that access to these resources requires a paid subscription.
3. State Archives and Historical Societies:
Depending on the soldier's home state, state archives and historical societies may hold supplementary records or information relevant to the 29th Infantry Division. This is particularly helpful if you know the soldier's place of origin.
4. Unit Histories and Publications:
Books and publications focusing on the 29th Infantry Division's wartime experiences sometimes include lists of personnel, particularly those who received awards or were involved in specific events. Searching for scholarly works or unit histories related to the 29th ID might uncover valuable information.
What Information Do I Need to Find a Soldier's Record?
The more information you can provide, the more successful your search will be. Ideally, you should have:
- Full Name: Including middle initial or name.
- Approximate Date of Birth: This helps narrow down the search.
- Service Number: If known.
- Home State or City: Knowing their place of origin can greatly assist in finding local records.
- Unit Assignment (within the 29th ID): Knowing the regiment, battalion, or company will significantly improve your chances of finding their record. (e.g., 116th Infantry Regiment)
Are there complete digitized rosters available online?
No, unfortunately, complete digitized rosters for the 29th Infantry Division are not readily available online. The sheer volume of records and the historical context make the digitization process slow and complex. The resources mentioned above represent the best avenues for accessing this information.
How can I find information about specific battles the 29th Infantry Division was involved in?
Numerous historical resources detail the 29th Infantry Division's engagements in WWII. These include books, articles, and online archives. Searching for specific battles like Normandy, Rhineland, or the Battle of the Bulge, along with "29th Infantry Division," will yield extensive information on their participation.
This process requires patience and persistence. By using a combination of these resources and providing as much detail as possible, you can significantly increase your chances of uncovering the historical records of soldiers who served in the 29th Infantry Division during World War II. Remember to respect the privacy and sensitivity surrounding these historical records.
