How Pearl Harbor Can Guide Your Genealogy Research
If you have a relative who served during World War II, whether at Pearl Harbor or elsewhere, this month is an ideal time to explore their story more deeply.
Here are a few places to start:
1. Military Personnel Files (NPRC)
The National Archives in St. Louis holds Official Military Personnel Files (OMPFs) for those who served in WWII.
These records often include:
- enlistment details
- training locations
- duty stations
- awards
- medical information
2. Pearl Harbor Casualty and Survivor Lists
Several online databases list:
- service members stationed at Pearl Harbor
- those killed or wounded in the attack
- survivors who later shared their stories
3. Unit Histories and Action Reports
Even if your relative wasn’t at Pearl Harbor, unit histories can reveal what they experienced in the early days of the war.
4. Family Letters and Photos
Some of the most valuable records aren’t in archives—they’re already in your home.
A single photo with a handwritten date, a return address on an envelope, or a memory someone once mentioned can unlock an entire research trail.
A TIME Capsule Moment: Preserving Their Service
Whether your family has a direct Pearl Harbor connection or simply lived through the era, this is a perfect opportunity to preserve military memories for future generations.
Try capturing one of the following:
- A short written biography of the relative who served
- A scan of their photograph in uniform
- A transcription of a letter or military document
- A voice recording of a family member sharing what they remember
- A digital folder containing all service-related materials
Small acts of preservation honor not just the relative—but their courage and contribution to history.
Reflecting This December
Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day isn’t only about looking back.
It’s about understanding how global events shaped the everyday lives of ordinary families—your family, my family, and millions more.
By recording and preserving these stories now, you are making sure they are not forgotten.
Want to Continue Exploring?
You may also enjoy:
- How to Preserve Military Records and Service Stories for Future Generations
- Holiday Conversations That Matter
- The Gift of Legacy: Meaningful Family History Gifts
And for more monthly inspiration, genealogy tips, and preservation ideas, don’t forget to subscribe to the AncestrySeeking Newsletter.
