Military research depends on country, period, force and status. Records are not all held in one place.
The method, step by step
- Gather identity, birth date and place, residence, unit and possible service period. Separate clues from documented facts.
- Read the relevant repository guide. Search available recruitment registers or personal files, then unit records once a unit is identified.
- Keep original abbreviations and record dates, postings and numbers. A regimental history gives collective context but does not prove individual participation in every operation.
- Compare civil records and log requests. Missing or destroyed files do not establish that no service occurred.
What to record
Separate recruiting office, military unit and residence. Transcribe the file identifier, service dates and cross-references. Match a person listed in a military record to civil records before incorporating the service history.
Record in your research log
- Recruitment
- unit
- service number
- service periods
- corroborated identity.
Sources & references
- Bundesarchiv ↗ (Resource review date : )
- The National Archives ↗ (Resource review date : )
- National Archives and Records Administration ↗ (Resource review date : )
- Library and Archives Canada / Bibliothèque et Archives Canada ↗ (Resource review date : )