How to find military service records and attestation papers

Online Database

First World War (1914-1918)

Search the personnel records of all who served in the First World War

All First World War records are open on Library and Archives Canada website.

Online Database

Second World War (1939-1947)

Search the records of Second World War - War Dead, 1939-1947

Search records of those who died in service between 1939 and 1947, including those killed in action, those who subsequently died of injuries related to service, and those who died as a result of accident or illness while in service.

ATIP Request

Between 1919-1997 (1919-2007 for reserves)

Send an ATIP Online Request to LAC.

Library and Archives Canada keeps records for those who were in:

• the regular forces between 1919 and 1997, including Permanent Force, Second World War (those who did not die during the war) and Korea;
  -OR-
• the reserves between 1919 and 2007 (not all files were retained) ;
  -OR-
• the Newfoundland Militia who served in the Second World War (note that not all files were retained).

Service records from this time are protected because they contain personal information.

ATIP Request

Between 1998 to present (2008-present for reserves)

Send an ATIP Online Request to DND.

DND keeps records for those who were in:

• the regular Canadian Forces between 1 January 1998 and today AND is either:
  • currently serving,
  • released from service or
  • died in service
  -OR-
• the reserve Canadian Forces between 1 March 2008 and today AND is either:
  • currently serving,
  • released from service or
  • died in service

Service records from this time are protected because they contain personal information.