Belgian Grandfather, looking for info

I have a section of my family tree where there are at least 4 or 5 different spelling variations of their last name. Who knows why. In your grandfather's case, maybe he wanted to be more closely associated with the actor Gary Cooper, who played Sergeant York in the 1941 film by the same name. Maybe it was just a way to try and fit in to his adopted country, as was Anglicizing his first name. Short of finding some written correspondence explaining his intentions, it may be something you will never really know for sure.

 

I got my form to fill out for the VA Hospital and it says to be specific with description of the records I am requesting. Any suggestions on what I should ask for because I really don't have a clue? All his medical records, or his doctor visits, surgeries...what kind of records might they have that I don't know about

 

I think you are most interested in where and when he received the head wound. Ask for that specifically, and a copy of his seperation papers if they have it. I Don't think you would want pages and pages of VA follow-up visits during his lifetime.
He wasn't active duty very long so perhaps just ask for the time he was active duty. Ultmately, you will need to decide what is going to be important to you. I really don't think they will possibly send everything in his file--he lived a long time and was treated for many years--his file would be enormous. Sorry I can't be more help. Dave

 

No, that helps alot. I mainly want Military information and to find out about his head wound, Thank you

 

Can anyone find anything on an Emmete/Emete/Emmett Coopman? This would be my grandfathers brother?

 

If you know his place and date of birth I'm willing to search Belgian archives looking for birth certificate.

Apparently no records available after 1900.
I suppose you know that you can find your grandfather on "http://gw.geneanet.org"