Swervie and Mo: Since you are both here, I'll ask if you saw the post I made to you both a couple of days ago. You suggested to me that I might get copies of my Dad's service records. It has taken a year from when I started my search to get any information back. It seems that Dad's records were in the part of the St. Louis record center that was most heavily damaged by fire, smoke and water. I should get copies of what was recovered in the mail this week.
I'll ask if you saw the post I made to you both a couple of days ago. I saw your post, and I'm glad you could find something. That fire was a tremendous disgrace.
I was either sulking that day and not posting, or I had already gotten in so much trouble for my posts that I was afraid to say anything to anyone. I can't remember which, sorry.
So9
Excellent detecting there - way to go.
Hey Cheri, I did see your post and meant to get back to you, but things around here have been crazy ... please forgive me :0)
My dad's records were destroyed in that fire also. It's good news that they were able to find some files of your dad's, like his medical records. They may offer more information for you to go on in finding out your dad's service in the military.
Once you get them, try checking out the Internet. Many of the WWII men have websites up to keep in touch with other men from their division and their family members.
The division my dad was with has one and there is a lot of information that helped me find what I did. I found out there were a couple of books writte about the 69th.
Plus they also have a message board for folks looking for buddy's or family members seeking anyone that might have know their loved one. They even put out a quarterly newsletter with all kids of stories about the war and memories from other men, along with news of any get togethers
Also, maybe ask your family members if they have saved anything from your dad during is service. My one cousin sent my sister a bunch of things, including letters that my dad wrote. After my one aunt passed away they found these things and sent the off to her. It helped me fill in some blanks about when my dad first went in the army. There was about a year that I couldn't figure what he did and the letters helped point me in the right direction
It's all very time consuming, but well worth it to know more about my dad.
Best of luck in your search