Copyright and Use Notice:
All photographs I personally take and upload are fully protected under U.S. and international copyright law. They may not be copied, redistributed, or used in any form without my prior written consent. To request permission, please contact me directly.
Research Methodology and Accuracy:
I actively conduct research through historical societies, libraries (both local and online), and genealogy resources such as FamilySearch, BG, MyHeritage, Geneanet, and other high-quality archival genealogy tools to ensure accuracy. When errors are discovered, I correct them promptly. Please note that Fold3, Geni, Ancestry, Storied, and unofficial sites that mimic ".gov" addresses are not trustworthy.
Military Records & Status Verification:
For U.S. veterans, I verify service through official sources, including NARA, NPRC, ABMC, HDPAA, CWSS, and VA databases. A veteran is not considered fully validated without either:
- A VA-approved grave marker, or
- Official military documentation (e.g., DD Form 214 with a matching photograph).
Official Sources:
- DoD: The DD Form 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) is the primary document used to verify military service. (DoD instruction 1336.01)
- VA: The Department of Veterans Affairs recognizes the DD Form 214 as the standard proof for benefits and burials. Burial cards are generally not accepted.
- Other acceptable proof (limited cases): National Guard NGB Forms 22/23, or a signed statement of service for current members.
Gravemarker Verification:
For establishing veteran status, only a VA-approved military grave marker (bronze or white marble upright) is valid. Private, non-VA-approved markers, even if inscribed with rank or service, do NOT constitute proof. Verification requires the individual's DD-214 or equivalent official document. (CFR Title 38, Part 38)
Important Notices:
- 'Burial cards' alone are not valid proof of veteran status.
- The DD-214 or equivalent document is the primary authoritative proof under 38 U.S.C. §§ 101 and 501.
- Newspaper obituaries, online obituaries, burial cards, or informal statements are NOT sufficient for official determination.
- Approximately 40% of gravestones inscribed with military service contain inaccuracies.
Commitment to Integrity:
My goal is to preserve accurate records for families, researchers, and future generations. Deliberate falsehoods, misleading information, or attempts to conceal errors will be documented and reported to Find A Grave Support.
Editing Policies:
If you approved one of my edit requests and then reversed it, this violates Find A Grave guidelines. All edit activity is tracked with screenshots. Repeated attempts to override factual corrections may result in administrative action by Find A Grave staff. Genuine collaboration is welcome when supported by reliable documentation.