Where does the Mil Info about spouses and children come from? - Part 2

There are several documents in the pension, in addition to the family circulars, that provide information about veterans' spouses and children. A few are listed below. Sorry if I forgot any.

• Dependent pension applications. After the soldier dies, widows and children can apply for pensions. In her application, the widow might provide information about the children. Additionally, if she receives a pension. A pension drop card with her death date might be included. Minor children and those with disabilities could apply for a pension. A child might be dropped from the pension roles upon turning 16.
• Affidavits, letters, depositions.These documents are included in a pension because someone is trying to provide evidence in support of an application. These can be written by many different people and might include information for spouses and children depending on the nature of the document. Occasionally, a soldier is living with an adult child, often a daughter. She might write letters on the veteran's behalf or make claims to be reimbursed for money she spent for the soldier. This, along with family circulars, is where we might find a daughter's married name.
• Marriage certificates. This will provide information about the soldier's spouse. Some certificates have more information than others, but it's reliable information when included.

Much of the information about spouses and children provided in the pension is reliable as it is provided by the soldier or his spouse or comes from official document. We do occasionally get discrepant or incorrect data, but this information is generally accurate and useful.