Proof of military service

[jwazevedo]

My grandfather emigrated from Como in 1906. I understand that he would have needed a passport and proof of military service. Where might I find this "proof of military service"?

Grazie,
Jerry

[johnnyonthespot]

Jerry,

If he was within the proscribed age bracket, he would have needed to prove that he had either fulfilled his military obligation or had been excused from military service for health or other reasons. If he left the country without doing so, he would be branded a deserter and subject to arrest and extradition.

Military conscription and service records are held by the state archives for the province which includes the comune of birth; in this case, the province of Como. You can follow the suggestions in this thread ( http://italiangenealogy.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=15162/ ) to request records. Use the address below:

Archivio di Stato di Como
Via Briantea, 8
22100 COMO
ITALY

email: as-co@beniculturali.it (remove the spaces)
web: http://www.archivi.beniculturali.it/ASCO/

[jwazevedo]

Thanks, Carmine. I've sent off the request, and we'll see what happens.

Grazie,
Jerry