Tracing your ancestry has become a captivating journey that allows us to connect with our roots, understand our heritage, and pay tribute to our ancestors’ lives. For those with military heritage, uncovering the stories of family members who served in the armed forces adds a layer of historical significance to the genealogical pursuit. Thankfully, the digital age has brought forth a plethora of genealogy websites that specialize in military records, making it easier than ever to piece together the puzzle of your military ancestors’ lives. In this blog, we will explore some of the best genealogy websites for accessing military records and how they can help you uncover the stories of your military ancestors. For other perspectives, see our previous post.
- Ancestry.com
Ancestry.com is a powerhouse in the world of genealogy, offering an extensive collection of military records that span from the Revolutionary War to modern conflicts. Their database includes draft registration cards, service records, pension records, and more. The website’s intuitive search features and expansive record collections make it an ideal starting point for any military genealogy research.
- Fold3
Fold3 is a subsidiary of Ancestry.com that is solely dedicated to military records. With a vast collection of historical documents such as service records, photos, and military newspapers, Fold3 provides a deep dive into the lives of military ancestors. Its focus on military history and easy-to-use interface make it a valuable resource for researchers of all levels.
- National Archives’ Access to Archival Databases (AAD)
The National Archives houses a treasure trove of military records, and their Access to Archival Databases (AAD) website provides a gateway to a wide range of records, including casualty lists, prisoner of war records, and more. While the interface might not be as user-friendly as some commercial sites, the depth and authenticity of the records available make it an indispensable resource for serious researchers.
- Findmypast
Findmypast is another genealogy website with a strong emphasis on military records. Their comprehensive collections include British Army service records, naval records, and various other military-related documents from around the world. The website also hosts a wealth of historical newspapers and photographs that can provide context to your ancestors’ military experiences.
- National Archives and Records Administration (NARA)
The NARA website itself is a goldmine for military records. While it doesn’t provide the same user-friendly interface as some commercial genealogy websites, it offers an abundance of resources, including military service records, pension records, and records related to conflicts such as the Civil War and World War II. It’s a must-visit for anyone conducting in-depth research into their military ancestors.
- Military Indexes
Military Indexes is a website dedicated to providing links to various online military record databases and resources. While it doesn’t host records itself, it serves as a directory that can help you quickly locate records relevant to your research. This resource is especially useful if you’re looking for records from specific conflicts or regions.
Conclusion
Uncovering the military history of your ancestors can be a deeply rewarding endeavor. The best genealogy websites for military records offer a wealth of resources, allowing you to piece together the lives and stories of those who served. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced researcher, these websites provide a variety of records and documents that can shed light on your military heritage. As you embark on this journey, remember to cross-reference information and verify details to ensure the accuracy of your findings.
FamilyFinders