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Date: Wed, 30 Aug 2006 08:30:33 -0400
From: John Mainprize <jmain60@bellsouth.net>
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Subject: [ROOTS-L] obtaining military records

How do I go about finding someone's WWII Naval records when all I know is name and birthdate ?

The following web link tells you how to obtain the military record of your ancestor, although probably not much beyond 1900, although you can try.
If you are the direct decendent of the person, it is very easy and free. Others have to follow a different route and it may cost something. I sent for and received my fathers WW2 Navy record from the day he entered the Navy to the day he left.

http://www.archives.gov/veterans/evetrecs/