2 Replies Latest reply on Dec 2, 2020 10:44 AM by Thomas Richardson

Seeking unit identification & information on medical unit

Joseph C Jenkins III Nov 19, 2020 11:08 PM

I am a luthier attempting to preserve a guitar that traveled with a soldier whose nickname was "Cowboy Red" in World War II from 1942-1944. He was in some sort of medical unit. That much can be determined by the information written on the guitar. Also written on the guitar are all the last names of the men in his unit. two other luthiers and myself would like to preserve this instrument. It is in bad shape, but we think we can put this guitar back into playing condition, while maintaining its original look, in honor of these WWII veterans The unit information written on the outside of the guitar which is still visible is:

Med. Sec. #1 ____

257 2nd S _________

1__ P_lveir

Va.

Then on the player's side of the guitar is written:

Boys of

nn73

1942-1944

Any help that anyone can give me information which will aid in more accurately identifying the unit, it will be most appreciated. I am happy to send photographs of the instrument to anyone who thinks seeing the actual writing might help in identification. Thank you

Re: Seeking unit identification & information on medical unit

Alice Lane Nov 22, 2020 2:21 PM (in response to Joseph C Jenkins III)

Hi Joseph,
Welcome to History Hub

I found a possible unit
257th Medical Company (Dental Services) (globalsecurity.org)

Alice Lane
Research Volunteer
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Re: Seeking unit identification & information on medical unit

Thomas Richardson Dec 2, 2020 10:44 AM (in response to Joseph C Jenkins III)

Dear Mr. Jenkins,

Thank you for posting your request on the History Hub!

It could be Medical Section No. 1 located at 257 2nd Street, Fort Belvoir, VA.

We searched the National Archives online catalog and located the Records of Historical Unit Medical Detachments (HUMEDS), 1940 - 1955 and the Unit Annual Reports, 1940 - 1949 in the Records of the Office of the Surgeon General (Army)(Record Group 112) that both contain copies of historical reports of Army medical units and facilities, as well as reports from medical components of regular Army units. For access to these records, please email the National Archives at College Park - Textual Reference (RDT2) 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 RDT2. We apologize for this inconvenience and appreciate your understanding and patience.

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