My name is Chip. I am 50 years old and I live in Washington State. My father served (and was severely wounded in WWII during the last push of the 65th Infantry through the SAAR valley. I am trying to reconstruct his service since his records were destroyed in the 1973 Records Center fire in St. Louis.
Welcome to this forum Chip ! I echo Tommy. There are plenty of people here on this forum who are willing to help if you ask. I wish you all the luck in your search!
I live in Tacoma. Thank you all for the warm welcome! Yes, on July 12, 1973 the fire destroyed between 16 to 18 million military records stored there, including 80% of all soldier records from 1912 to 1959. They are still working to restore records and have 24 permanent staff and many college interns working with the latest equipment and techniques. Around 300 requests for these burned files come in every day, they usually try to get to those where it will make a difference to a veteran (attempting to get benefits) or their families (attempting to recover awards) first. It is slow work. Regarding my search, which forum would be best to post in to start my search?
Welcome to a great forum. I'm also a web-foot from Bellingham. Go Hawks! Since your father was wounded, I'm sure the VA would have a lot of information. They usually ask for a copy of the personnel file when a veteran comes in for care. Sure would be worth asking. The VA also keep their archived files in St. Louis. Dave
Welcome Chip! The best place to post your questions would probably be what grandad did in the war or in the theatre of the war he was in.
Welcome. I grew up in Washington as well but haven't lived there for decades. Was born up north of Spokane and went to school in Chehalis.
