Military research is still possible
As of October 1, 2025, the National Archives may be closed but there is a lot of information you can obtain from other sources to start or continue your World War I or World War II research or writing journey.
Did you know that there is a specific strategy to finding accurate information about your veteran’s service? Did you know there are resources available online, in local libraries, historical and genealogical societies, and other places outside of NPRC and NARA? While you may have to wait for the archives to reopen to obtain certain records, there is so much you can discover right now.
In this two webinar plus Q&A event on November 1, 2025, you will learn my two-part military research strategy which will save you time, money, and frustration. You may also discover some tips to help you write your veteran stories. Learn more and register for my live event, Research a Veteran.
Schedule of Events
Saturday, November 1, 2025.
9:00 a.m. CST – Program 1: Research a Veteran
10:15 a.m. – Short break
10:30 a.m. – Program 2: The Greatest Generation
11:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. – Q&A for those who wish to say and ask questions live.
Learn more and register for my live event, Research a Veteran.
Program 1 Research a Veteran
Exploring the Basics of Military Research
All the records DID NOT burn. Answers can be found and stories written no matter what anyone tells you. There is a strategy to correctly research 20th century military service, regardless of branch. In this session you will learn:
- Where to begin your research at home.
- What questions to ask.
- The first part of the research strategy to learn any veteran’s story from any 20th century war and and military branch.
- What records you need to establish the foundation and where to locate them.
- How to create a timeline of service.
- How to begin writing the story.
Exploring the Greatest Generation
Adding Context to the Veteran’s Story
Contextual records are everywhere, not just the National Archives! Once you have established what units your service member was in and where they served, it is time to explore unit-level records. In this program you’ll explore:
- The second part of the research strategy to piece together your veteran’s story.
- How to add to your timeline of service and expand the narrative.
- Explore various histories, journals, photos, and maps for all the military branches.
- You will learn about the most valuable foundational records to put your service member into context and write a richer story everyone will want to read.
These records help you write the narrative to your stories. They will also help you understand why your veteran was who they were after service, and probably bring up more questions for you to consider.
Are you ready to get started on your veteran journey? Learn more and register for my live event, Research a Veteran.
Workbooks and video replays will be available.
© 2025 World War II Research and Writing Center
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