Where do you go for info on your dad that was in World War 2 deceased I want his purple heart how about it?
To obtain information about your father's military service and the possibility of receiving his Purple Heart, you can take the following steps:
1. Gather Basic Information:
- Start by gathering basic information about your father, such as his full name, date of birth, and military service number (if you have it).
2. Contact the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC):
- The NPRC is the primary repository for military records of U.S. veterans from the 19th century to the present. You can contact them by phone, mail, or online.
- Phone: 1-800-952-5651
- Mail: National Personnel Records Center, 1 Archives Drive, St. Louis, MO 63138-1001
- Online: Use the eVetRecs Online System:
https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records
3. Request Military Records:
- Submit a request for your father's military service records. The request should include the veteran's full name, date of birth, service number (if available), and the type of records you are seeking.
4. Purple Heart Award:
- If you specifically want to inquire about your father's Purple Heart, include that in your request. The Purple Heart is awarded to members of the U.S. military who are wounded or killed in combat.
5. Provide Required Documents:
- You will need to provide proof of your relationship to the veteran, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate.
6. Processing Time:
- Be aware that processing times for military records can vary depending on the availability of the requested records and the volume of requests. It may take several weeks or even months to receive the requested information.
7. Research Medal Recipient Information:
- You can also do research on the circumstances surrounding your father's military service and the possible receipt of the Purple Heart. This might involve reviewing unit histories, researching battles and campaigns, and consulting military archives and museums.
8. Contact Veterans Organizations:
- If you are struggling to find information or if you need assistance with the process, consider reaching out to veterans organizations such as the American Legion or the Veterans of Foreign Wars. These organizations may provide resources and guidance.
9. Purple Heart Criteria:
- Keep in mind that the Purple Heart is not automatically awarded to all veterans who served in combat. It is specifically given to those who are wounded or killed as a result of enemy action.
10. Additional Information:
- If you are successful in obtaining your father's military records and the Purple Heart, you may also be eligible for additional benefits and recognition. This could include burial benefits, veteran's preference in employment, and participation in commemorative events.
Remember to be patient during the research process, as records may take time to locate and retrieve. If you have any questions or need assistance, don't hesitate to contact the National Personnel Records Center or other relevant agencies or organizations for guidance and support.