Discovering Vietnam War Mission Reports: A Guide for Families

Introduction

Many families are eager to uncover the details of their ancestors' wartime experiences, especially during significant historical events like the Vietnam War. If your goal is to find mission reports from the Vietnam War involving your daughter's grandfather's infantry squad, you're not alone. This guide will help you navigate the process effectively.

Starting with the DD-214

The first step in your quest is to obtain the soldier's discharge record, commonly known as a DD-214. The DD-214 is a document that provides information about the soldier's unit assignments, dates of service, and any awards received. This document is crucial because it can help you identify the specific unit your ancestor belonged to. Ideally, you would obtain this from the soldier himself, particularly if he is still living, as he will need to give his consent. If he is not alive, your next of kin may have access to it.

Accessing National Archives

Once you have identified the specific unit, the next step involves accessing the unit records. These records can be found at the National Archives in College Park, Maryland. The National Archives hold extensive documentation on military service during the Vietnam War. However, the National Archives are currently closed due to the pandemic, but once they reopen, visiting there in person is highly recommended. Staff there are known for their excellent assistance, making it easier to navigate the records.

For those who are unable to visit the archives in person, professional researchers are available to help find the necessary records. While this option may come with a cost, it can be a valuable resource if you are unable to travel to the archives.

Additional Record Sources

Additional records can also be found at the National Archives in St. Louis. However, be aware that many records were lost in a fire that occurred in 1973. Despite the loss, the archives in St. Louis still hold valuable information that may be relevant to your search.

The Army Historical Center in Carlisle, Pennsylvania is another valuable resource. This center has an extensive collection of records and is likely to have mission reports and other documents relevant to the Vietnam War. Like the National Archives, this center has been impacted by the pandemic and may be closed. Professional researchers can also assist with accessing these records, though it may incur additional costs.

Social Media for Additional Insight

Another promising avenue for uncovering information is through social media. Facebook groups dedicated to specific units from the Vietnam War are quite active. Many units, from the smallest companies to entire zones of operation, have their own pages. These groups can be a goldmine of information as they are eager to connect with family members of former soldiers and share the history of their Vietnam tour of duty. By joining these groups, you may be able to receive firsthand accounts and mission reports from other members who know the unit well.

In conclusion, discovering mission reports from the Vietnam War is a multifaceted process that involves obtaining the DD-214, visiting the National Archives, and utilizing social media. Each step is crucial and can provide valuable insights into your ancestor's experiences during the war. By taking advantage of these resources, you can piece together a more detailed and meaningful story of your family's history.