The 9th Infantry Division, nicknamed the "Manchu Division," played a significant role in the Vietnam War. Finding specific names on a Vietnam War roster, especially for a large unit like the 9th Infantry Division, requires dedicated research and understanding of the available resources. This guide will navigate you through the process of researching the 9th Infantry Division's Vietnam roster and highlight the challenges and potential avenues for success.
Where to Begin Your Search for a 9th Infantry Division Vietnam Roster?
Unfortunately, there isn't a single, centralized online database containing a complete roster for the 9th Infantry Division during the Vietnam War. The records are spread across various archives and repositories. Your success depends on the information you already have – the more details you possess about the soldier you're searching for, the better your chances.
1. Using the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA):
The NARA is the primary source for military records in the United States. They hold a vast collection of personnel records, including those from the Vietnam War. However, accessing these records often requires specific information like the soldier's name, date of birth, and service number. You may find relevant documents, unit rosters, or other related information within their collections. Their online catalog is a crucial starting point for your search.
2. Exploring the Fold3 Website:
Fold3 is a subscription-based website that provides access to digitized military records. They often include unit rosters, casualty lists, and other documents that might list members of the 9th Infantry Division. While it's a paid service, it's a valuable resource for those pursuing detailed genealogical research.
3. Leveraging State Archives and Local Historical Societies:
Depending on the soldier's home state, state archives or local historical societies might possess relevant records or information, including local newspaper clippings mentioning their service or community tributes. These resources often offer a more localized perspective on the soldier's involvement in the Vietnam War.
What Kinds of Records Might Contain Information about the 9th Infantry Division's Roster?
Beyond general personnel records, several other types of documents may contain information about soldiers serving in the 9th Infantry Division during the Vietnam War:
Unit Diaries and Histories:
These offer detailed accounts of unit activities and may mention personnel involved in specific operations.
Casualty Lists and Medical Records:
These records provide information about soldiers who were wounded or killed in action, often including their names and units.
Morning Reports:
These daily records frequently listed the names of soldiers present in a unit. However, access to these can be restricted.
Photographs and Personal Accounts:
Photographs, letters, and memoirs of veterans who served in the 9th Infantry Division may offer additional information or clues that could help you locate a specific roster or individual's name.
Challenges in Locating 9th Infantry Division Vietnam Rosters
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Record Privacy: Privacy regulations limit access to certain personnel records, especially those containing sensitive personal information.
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Record Preservation: The passage of time and wartime conditions have led to some record loss or damage.
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Record Organization: Military records aren't always organized in a consistently searchable manner. Understanding the organizational structure of the 9th Infantry Division during its Vietnam deployments is essential for effective searching.
Tips for Successful Research:
- Start with what you know: The more specific details you have about the soldier (name, approximate service dates, unit designation), the easier the search will be.
- Be persistent: Searching military records requires patience and persistence. Don't get discouraged if you don't find immediate results.
- Use multiple resources: Combine the use of NARA, Fold3, state archives, and other relevant resources to maximize your chances of success.
- Network with veteran organizations: Veteran groups often have resources or connections that could aid your research.
Locating specific names on a 9th Infantry Division Vietnam roster is a challenging but achievable task with the right approach and dedication. Remember to respect privacy laws and be mindful of the sensitivity of the information involved when researching such records.
