Draft registrations for World War I and World War II can be found online, providing personal details about the lives of our male ancestors and relatives. I have found several of my forefathers' draft registration forms for both World War I & II.
One of my four great-grandfathers, John Reese, didn't fight in World War II, but he did register for the draft in 1940, as required by law. I was fortunate enough to know my great-grandfather, but for those who never knew him, this provides a small glimpse into his personal life.
He was 29 years old in 1940 and although there is no indication of it on the form, he had a wife and two young sons at the time. The family was counted on the 1940 census in Groton, Tompkins County, New York.
According to the information provided on his draft registration, he was 5' 2" and weighed 138 pounds. He had a light complexion, blue eyes and brown hair. He was employed by Rowland Davis of Cortland, New York, who was also his "Friend".
To find World War II draft registration cards, try a search on Ancestry. (Paid subscription required to view results).
Comments