Find WW1 & WWII War Graves

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Post on Nov 10, 2024

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Finding Resting Places: A Guide to Locating War Graves from WWI & WWII

The echoes of war may fade with time, but the memory of those who fought and fell remains. For many, visiting the final resting place of loved ones who served in World War I and World War II is a deeply personal pilgrimage. Fortunately, several resources exist to help you locate these war graves, offering a chance to pay respects and connect with history.

1. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC):

This international organization maintains the graves of over 1.7 million Commonwealth soldiers who died in World War I and II. Their website (www.cwgc.org) is a treasure trove of information.

• Search by Name: Simply enter the name of the soldier you are seeking. The site will display their service details, including the location of their grave and the cemetery information.
• Cemetery Locations: You can browse cemeteries by country and region, providing a visual map and a list of interred soldiers.
• Historical Information: The CWGC site also offers detailed historical information about the battles and campaigns these soldiers participated in.

2. The American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC):

The ABMC oversees the cemeteries and memorials of American soldiers who died in World War I and II, as well as the Korean War and Vietnam War. Their website (www.abmc.gov) provides similar resources to the CWGC.

• Find a Casualty: The site allows you to search for deceased American soldiers by name, providing their burial details.
• Cemetery & Memorial Locator: You can locate American cemeteries and memorials around the world using an interactive map.
• Historical Information: The ABMC website offers detailed information about each cemetery and memorial, including their history and significance.

3. Other Resources:

• National Archives and Records Administration (NARA): NARA holds a vast collection of military records, including casualty lists and burial information.
• Military Heritage Sites: Museums and historical sites dedicated to the war periods often maintain records of soldiers buried in their local cemeteries.
• Genealogy Websites: Many genealogical sites, such as Ancestry.com and Find a Grave, also provide information on war graves.

Finding the Right Information:

To make your search easier, gather as much information as possible about the soldier you are seeking. This includes:

• Full name
• Service number
• Unit or regiment
• Date of death
• Place of death
• Location of burial (if known)

Visiting the Grave:

Once you've found the location, plan your visit. Cemeteries and memorials are often serene places, and respectful attire and behavior are expected. Many sites offer guided tours and interpretative information, enhancing your understanding of the history and sacrifices made.

Remember:

Locating war graves is not just about finding a place on a map, but about honoring the memory of those who served and fell. Visiting these resting places connects you to the past, reminding us of the immense cost of war and the importance of peace.