Since 1873, U.S. Naval Institute heritage programs have honored the service of America’s veterans. The Institute’s research library compiles oral histories of notable military professionals. It offers photographs from its 450,000-image collection – and certificates commemorating service accomplishments and experiences. The Institute’s Americans at War television series helps us understand the true experience of combat. Here are a few ways the USNI research librarians suggest you might honor a veteran this year:
Finding copies of Service Records:
Veterans and their family members often ask for information regarding an individual’s military service – particularly as they research family history or look to honor an aging loved one. Answers to many questions can be found in the individual’s service record which is kept at the National Personnel Record Center (NPRC) located in St. Louis, Missouri. In most cases, Veterans or next of kin can obtain copies of their DD-214 (discharge papers) or other needed documents by filing a Standard Form-180. For specific instructions – and to download a copy of the form – visit the National Archive and Record Administration homepage.
Photographs:
The U.S. Naval Institute has the world’s largest private collection of military photographs, with special emphasis on Navy, Marine, and Coast Guard images dating back to the Civil War. Chances are excellent that we have a photograph of any ship your veteran sailed on. You can check our on-line photo gallery, or call USNI directly at (410) 295-1022 to obtain a photographic print for your Veteran or family history. Through the month of November, Naval Institute members and friends can receive a 20% discount by applying the following coupon code to their photo order at checkout: NAVY1775
Certificates:
A wide array of ceremonial and action certificates are also available from the Naval Institute. They can be personalized for presentation to your favorite Veteran. The full-color certificates are reproduced on heavy paper suitable for framing. During November, free presentation folders will be provided with all orders.
Make Your Veteran’s Story a Part of History:
The Library of Congress has an excellent program through which you can record a Veteran’s story for archiving in the Library of Congress – where it will be available for generations to come. Click here for information on participating in the Veterans History Project.
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