You know I debated for along time if I should send away for these records and finally did. Everyone one said it'll take 6 wks to get them. I must have lucked out. I only 3 weeks I had my gr grandfathers and what a surprise it was.
I have learned so much from these records.
I always knew he was married afew times,but 4 times...wow.
It's amazing the people who tried claiming his pension.
It contains doctors reports,court documents,ex wives statements and more.
If you have been putting it off or just hadn't thought about DO IT. You won't regret it.
www.archives.gov/ this is a good starting point.
The forms needed are natf-85 this is for pension records only.
Form natf-86 is for pre WW1 records....Civil war etc
Form DD Form 214 can be used for military records for next of kin and veterans.
Standard form 180 (SF 180) can be used to obtain military records too.
Getting the records is something that will help you. I have gotten info i didn't know about my gr grandfather.
Plus it's great reading. LOL