Research: United States resources
Starting the process of looking for your American father can be overwhelming, often because it's difficult to know where to start the search.
We suggest using these digital research tools to help you in your search.
Types of information required to get started
Tracing your American family is much easier if you have a name, place or date of birth, a service unit or division, and know where the serviceman was stationed during the war.
The more information you have at hand, the greater the likelihood of some success.
Research sites to trace American servicemen
Database of US Army personnel during World War II
World War II Electronic Army Serial Number Merged File by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) is an electronic database that has the records of 9 million men and women who enlisted with the US Army, Army Air Corps/Army Air Force and the Women's Army Auxiliary during World War II.
Although incomplete, the records contain data for a majority of the enlistments in the United States Army during World War II. These records contain servicemen's Army serial numbers which are very useful in applying for an individual's service record (officially known as an Official Military Personnel File (OMPF)).
Burial locations of veterans in the US
Nationwide Gravesite Locator from the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs allows you to search for the burial location of veterans.
Find out if they are living or dead
The Social Security Death Index can be searched for free. It will help you determine if the person you seek is still living.
Register of Americans in WWII
The National World War II Memorial hosts a World War II Registry of Americans who contributed to the war effort.
Military records, Navy and Army
US Census records. Some U.S. WWII military records are available on this site, notably the US Navy muster rolls and the draft registration cards of the US Army.
Note: This website is accessed by subscription.
Worldwide genealogical records
Family Search will allow you to access genealogical records worldwide for free.