How to Obtain an Illinois World War I Bonus Application Record
- 1). Write a letter to the Illinois State Archives. Begin by mentioning the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to obtain copies of the records. State you would like to receive copies of Service Recognition Board (RG 503.000) records.
An example letter beginning may be:
Dear Staff:
Pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, I hereby make a request for the Service Recognition Board (RG 503.000) information on [insert name] below. - 2). In the body of the letter include service information such as full legal name of the serviceman, branch of military, military service number if known, division and unit information, date of birth, place of birth, and your relationship to the veteran. Provide your contact information in case of a question and provide an address where records may be mailed.
- 3). Mail the letter to:
Illinois State Archives
Margaret Cross Norton Building
Capitol Complex
Springfield, IL 62756
The Illinois State Archives usually responds within a month to these requests. Someone will contact you if there are any questions.