It shouldn't be a surprise. The one thing to expect when dealing with bureaucracy is paperwork. Lots of paperwork. When I got a very prompt reply from the National Personnel Records Center, I tore into the letter, mailbox still open. My heart sank when I read what was inside.
The government wants me to fill out more forms for Private Goodman. What's so frustrating is they want the same information that I supplied them in my original request. Most bothersome though is this comment: "Many service files were lost in a disastrous fire on July 12, 1973." It doesn't say Private Goodman's file was destroyed, but when a government agency is asking you for information they are supposed to have, it doesn't look good.
So I'll return the second form with what I can add and hope for the best. Until then, keep your fingers crossed.
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2 comments:
B--
I was curious about the fire, so I Googled it. They weren't kidding calling it disastrous. 80% of the Army personnel records for about 40-50 years were lost, as well as almost as many Air Force. I fear part of your search may have gone up in smoke.
Scott Cz.
Hang in there! The harder the hunt more you will enjoy the results when / if you find out something good. Thanks for your hard work to honor those who sacrificed on our behalf.
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