National Archives to Permanently Preserve Military Service Records

7/1/2004

From: Laura Diachenko of the National Archives, 301-837-1700

News Advisory:

WHAT: Signing ceremony to authorize preservation of official military personnel files of 56 million veterans who served the nation since 1885. This milestone event will ensure that modern era military service veterans' records are protected and ultimately made available for research at the National Archives and Records Administration. Protecting these files is crucial because they contain essential evidence needed by veterans and their families to claim life-long rights and entitlements that accrue from military service. Preserving the files for future generations is equally important so that family members, genealogists, biographers and historians can research the history of those who served.

Following the ceremony, guest will have the opportunity to view the individual military personnel files of Benedict Arnold, Humphrey Bogart, Jackie Robinson and Margaret Chase Smith, among others.

(MEDIA: Please note that no additional light may be used on the documents)

WHO:

-- Archivist of the United States John W. Carlin

-- Under Secretary of Defense (Personnel and Readiness) David S. C. Chu

WHERE: The Jefferson Room, National Archives and Records Administration, Constitution Avenue, between 7th and 9th Streets, NW, Washington, DC 20408

PLEASE NOTE CHANGE: Media should use the 700 Pennsylvania Avenue entrance.

WHEN: Thursday, July 8, 2004, 1:30 p.m.

Electronic media preset 1:15 p.m. Additional lights may be used during the ceremony.

For PRESS information, contact Laura Diachenko, National Archives Public Affairs at: 301-837-1700.