Researching Your Father's Military Service: Tips and Resources

Discovering details about your father's military service can be a deeply rewarding experience. Whether you're trying to determine which Marine Division he served in or just want to learn more about his experiences, there are several resources and steps you can take to gather the information you seek.

Identifying Marine Division Uniforms

If you have a photo of your father in a military uniform, a good starting point is to look at the shoulder patch. The 1st Marine Division wore a blue diamond-shaped patch with a '1' emblazoned on it, while the 2nd Marine Division wore a red patch with a '2'. These distinctive insignias can provide initial clues about which division he may have served in.

While these patches are a helpful guide, they are not definitive on their own. For comprehensive information about his service history, medals, campaign ribbons, and locations, it's best to request his official military records.

Requesting Official Military Records

In the United States:
For U.S. military service records, contact the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC). You can request a copy of your father's service records by writing a letter that includes his full name, date of birth, and any other pertinent information, such as his Army Service Number if you have it. It's important to note that the process can take several weeks to a few months, so patience is key.

In Ireland:
If your father served in the Irish military, you can contact the Department of Defence's Central Record Office. They can provide a complete service record, including military records and discharge papers. Sending a written request with all relevant details is the recommended approach. Allow ample time for the process, as it may take several weeks to a month to receive a response.

Additional Search Strategies

Other useful resources include:

The National Archives: You can request records from the National Personnel Records Center through the National Archives. Online Databases: Search for your father's name and service details on websites that specialize in genealogical research and military history. Marine Corps Associations: Organizations such as the Marine Corps League can provide information on former Marines and share experiences and memories.

Another approach is to consult with family members who may have personal knowledge of your father's military background. They could provide valuable insights and additional information that can aid in your research.

Conclusion

Your father served in the sometimes challenging and often heroic battles of the 2nd Marine Division during World War II. While Guadalcanal, Tarawa, and Saipan were significant engagements, it's also worth considering his involvement in subsequent campaigns like Tinian and Okinawa. Your persistence and thoroughness in gathering information can help reveal the full picture of his service and shared experiences of The Old Breed, as the Marines call it.

With patience and persistence, you can uncover the details of your father's military history and pay homage to the brave service he provided. Good luck with your research!