The 29th Infantry Division, nicknamed the "Blue and Gray," holds a prominent place in World War II history. Comprising soldiers from Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia, this National Guard division fought valiantly across Europe, leaving an indelible mark on the conflict. While a complete, publicly accessible roster for the entire division is unfortunately unavailable, piecing together information from various sources can help you find records related to specific soldiers. This guide will provide insights into navigating the search and understanding the challenges involved in accessing this historical data.
Where to Begin Your Search for 29th Infantry Division Roster Information:
Finding specific names within the vast records of the 29th Infantry Division requires a strategic approach. There's no single, comprehensive, online roster. Your search will likely involve utilizing several resources:
1. National Archives and Records Administration (NARA):
NARA is the primary repository for US military records. Their website allows you to search for specific individuals using their name, unit, and other identifying information. While you might not find a complete roster, you can locate individual personnel files containing details such as enlistment records, service records, and sometimes even photographs. Be prepared for some detailed searching and potentially sifting through numerous results.
2. Fold3 and Ancestry.com:
These are subscription-based genealogy websites containing vast digitized collections of military records. Both offer significant resources related to WWII, including potentially unit rosters or individual service records for members of the 29th Infantry Division. They often have indexes that can speed your search.
3. State Archives:
Since the 29th Infantry Division was largely composed of National Guard units from Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia, the state archives in these locations may hold additional records or information. Check the websites of the Maryland State Archives, the Virginia State Archives, and the District of Columbia Archives for potential resources.
4. Libraries and Historical Societies:
Local libraries and historical societies in the areas where the 29th Infantry Division's soldiers originated may possess local records, photographs, or oral histories related to specific units or individuals within the division. These resources often provide a more localized perspective.
Challenges in Accessing WWII Rosters:
Accessing complete, readily available rosters for the 29th Infantry Division (or any WWII unit) presents several challenges:
Privacy Concerns:
Many records containing personal information are restricted to protect the privacy of individuals and their families. This is particularly true for sensitive data within personnel files.
Record Preservation:
The sheer volume of records generated during WWII, combined with the passage of time, has resulted in some records being lost, damaged, or incomplete. The process of digitizing and indexing these vast collections is ongoing.
Declassification Process:
Some military records remain classified for national security reasons, limiting public access. The declassification process can be lengthy and complex.
What Information Can You Expect to Find?
Successfully locating records might yield information such as:
- Name and Rank: The soldier's full name and military rank.
- Unit Assignment: Specific unit within the 29th Infantry Division (e.g., regiment, battalion, company).
- Dates of Service: The period during which the soldier served in the division.
- Awards and Decorations: Any medals, ribbons, or commendations received.
- Combat Actions: Participation in specific battles or campaigns.
- Casualty Information: (If applicable) details regarding wounds, injuries, or death.
Remember, patience and persistence are key when researching historical military records. The resources mentioned above require diligent searching, but they offer the best chance of finding information about specific individuals who served in the legendary 29th Infantry Division.
