The Graves Commission

The Graves Registration Commission was a U.S. government organization responsible for recovering, identifying, and properly handling the remains of military personnel who died overseas, especially during wars like World War I and II. Their goal was to ensure that fallen soldiers received respectful burial and, when possible, to return their remains to their families. They coordinated with military and civilian agencies to locate graves, conduct autopsies, and manage memorials. Their work helped honor service members’ sacrifices and provided closure to families by ensuring proper respect and remembrance.