United States Army Records: A Comprehensive Guide

United States Army Records are essential for a variety of purposes, such as genealogy research, verifying military service, or even assisting in background checks. These records contain valuable information about individual soldiers and units, as well as the history of the United States Army itself. This article will provide an overview of the different types of United States Army Records and how to access them.

What are United States Army Records?

United States Army Records are official documents that chronicle the service and activities of the United States Army, its units, and its soldiers. These records can take many forms, such as enlistment documents, service records, pension files, discharge papers, and unit histories. They are maintained by various government agencies, including the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Enlistment and Service Records

Enlistment and service records are among the most important United States Army Records for genealogists and researchers. These documents typically contain personal information about individual soldiers, such as their names, dates of birth, places of residence, and physical descriptions. They may also include details about their military service, such as the units they served in, their ranks, and any promotions or awards they received.

Pension Files

Pension files are another valuable type of United States Army Records. These files contain information about the financial benefits provided to veterans, their widows, and their dependents. In addition to personal details about the veteran, pension files may also include information about their military service, such as their enlistment dates, units, and any wounds or disabilities they sustained during their service.

Discharge Papers

Discharge papers are essential United States Army Records for veterans who need to prove their military service for various purposes, such as obtaining veterans' benefits or applying for government jobs. These records typically include the veteran's name, rank, unit, dates of service, and the reason for their discharge.

Unit Histories

Unit histories are United States Army Records that document the activities and accomplishments of specific Army units throughout their existence. These records can include information about battles and campaigns the unit participated in, as well as details about the unit's organization, personnel, and equipment. Unit histories are invaluable resources for researchers studying military history or tracing the service of individual soldiers.

How to Access United States Army Records

There are several ways to access United States Army Records, depending on the type of record and its age. Some records are available online, while others can only be accessed through physical archives or by submitting a formal request.

Online Resources

Many United States Army Records have been digitized and are available through various online databases and websites. Some of the most popular online resources for accessing Army records include:

• The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA): NARA's website provides access to a wide range of United States Army Records, including enlistment records, pension files, and unit histories. Some records can be accessed directly through NARA's online catalog, while others may require a visit to one of NARA's research facilities.

• Ancestry.com: Ancestry.com is a subscription-based genealogy website that offers access to millions of United States Army Records, including enlistment records, pension files, and unit histories. Ancestry.com also provides a variety of search tools and resources to help users make the most of the records they find.

• Fold3.com: Fold3.com is another subscription-based website that specializes in military records, including United States Army Records. Users can search for records by name, unit, or conflict and can also browse collections of records organized by war or time.

Physical Archives

While many United States Army Records are available online, some records can only be accessed through physical archives. The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) has several research facilities located throughout the United States where researchers can access original Army records. These facilities include the National Archives in Washington, D.C., as well as regional archives located in cities such as Atlanta, Chicago, and Denver.

To access Army records at a NARA facility, researchers must first create an online account and request the records they need. Once their request is approved, they can visit the facility and view the records in person. Some records may also be available on microfilm or as copies that can be requested through the mail.

Formal Requests

In some cases, researchers may need to submit a formal request to access United States Army Records that are not available online or at a NARA facility. These requests are typically made to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, which maintains records related to veterans' benefits and entitlements.

To request Army records from the Department of Veterans Affairs, researchers must complete Form SF-180, which is available on the department's website. The form requires information such as the veteran's name, service number, and dates of service, as well as the researcher's own contact information. Once the form is completed and submitted, the Department of Veterans Affairs will search its records for the requested information and provide copies of any records found.

Tips for Using United States Army Records

When using United States Army Records for research purposes, it's important to keep in mind a few tips and best practices. Here are a few things to consider:

• Know what records you're looking for: Before beginning your research, make sure you have a clear understanding of the types of United States Army Records that may be relevant to your search. This will help you focus your search and find the information you need more quickly.

• Use multiple sources: While many United States Army Records are available online, not all records have been digitized. Be prepared to use multiple sources, such as physical archives or formal requests, to access the information you need.

• Be flexible in your search terms: When searching for United States Army Records, it's important to be flexible in your search terms. Names, dates, and other details may have been recorded differently in different records, so try variations and alternative spellings to ensure you don't miss any relevant information.

• Look beyond the individual soldier: United States Army Records can provide valuable information about individual soldiers, but they can also be used to gain insights into broader military operations and history. Consider using unit histories or other records to learn more about the context of a soldier's service.

Conclusion

United States Army Records are invaluable resources for researchers, historians, and anyone interested in learning more about the history of the United States Army and its soldiers. Whether you're conducting genealogy research or simply curious about the military service of a family member, these records can provide a wealth of information about individual soldiers, Army units, and military operations.

While many United States Army Records are available online, some records can only be accessed through physical archives or by submitting a formal request. By using multiple sources and being flexible in your search terms, you can maximize your chances of finding the information you need. With the help of these records, you can gain a deeper understanding of the sacrifices and achievements of the men and women who have served in the United States Army throughout its history.