1 Reply Latest reply on May 3, 2020 3:47 PM by Rebecca Collier

    Seeking name of Italian Merchant ship seized in Norfolk

    Marc Alfarano Newbie
    Marc Alfarano Apr 24, 2020 9:38 AM

      I am trying to find information pertaining to my grandfather.  He was an Italian merchant marine sailor who was seized at the start of WWII in Norfolk, Virginia.  His name was Giuseppe Alfarano.  I am trying to find the name of the ship he was on. Any information would be helpful.  Thank you.

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        • Re: Seeking name of Italian Merchant ship seized in Norfolk
          Rebecca Collier Ranger
          Rebecca Collier Expert May 3, 2020 3:47 PM (in response to Marc Alfarano)

          Dear Mr. Alfarano,

           

          Thank you for posting your request on History Hub!

           

          We searched the National Archives Catalog and located General Records, 1922 - 1942 in the Records of the U.S. Coast Guard (Record Group 26) that may include the seized vessel. For access to these records, please contact the National Archives at Washington, DC - Textual Reference (RDT1) via email at archives1reference@nara.gov.

           

          We also located the series General Correspondence, 1940-1973 in the Records of Naval Districts and Shore Establishments (Record Group 181) that may include records about the seized vessel. For access to these records, please contact the National Archives at Philadelphia (RE-PA) via email at philadelphia.archives@nara.gov.

           

          In addition, we located the Naval Intelligence Administrative Files, 1940 - 1955 in the Records of the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations (Record Group 38) that may include a report of the capture of the Italian Merchant vessel. And lastly, we located Records Relating to Italian Prisoners of War During World War II, 1942 - 1947 in the Records of the Office of the Provost Marshal General (Record Group 389) that may include records of the crew. For access to these records, please contact the National Archives at College Park - Textual Reference (RDT2) via email at archives2reference@nara.gov.

           

          Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and pursuant to guidance received from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), NARA has adjusted its normal operations to balance the need of completing its mission-critical work while also adhering to the recommended social distancing for the safety of NARA staff. As a result of this re-prioritization of activities, you may experience a delay in receiving an initial acknowledgement as well as a substantive response to your reference request from RDT1, RE-PA, & RDT2. We apologize for this inconvenience and appreciate your understanding and patience.

           

          We hope this is helpful. Best of luck with your family research!

           

          [Information provided by Nate Patch, Subject Matter Expert]

           

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