The Washington University Memorial Association was founded in order to create “a memorial commemorating those persons affiliated with Washington University, who rendered national service in the Great War, and also other persons, affiliated with Washington University at other periods whose services have, or shall have, reflected honor on the University.” (Memorial Association Constitution)

In 1921 the Association sent all individuals associated with the University (including current or former students, faculty, and staff) for whom an address was known a blank form titled “Washington University War Record.” Forms were also sent to individuals who attended the then associated educational institutions of Smith Academy, Mary Institute, and the Manual Training School. Instructions on the form stated,

"It is hoped that each person to whom this information blank is sent will regard the matter in an impersonal way, and that no feeling of modesty will prevent such person from lending his or her co-operation in a work that will redound to the good name of Washington University."

Information regarding military service, as well as civilian efforts, such as Red Cross and Liberty Loan participation, was requested. Forms that were returned were completed to various degrees, with some individuals including very detailed accounts of war involvement and attaching supporting documents, letters, or photographs.  Other forms were returned with little information, or information about the individuals’ career since leaving the University. Many of the returned records were from former medical school or nursing school students, some of whom served at the Red Cross sponsored Base Hospital No. 21, in Rouen France which was staffed by faculty and students of the Medical School. Individuals whom were deceased were selected for special recognition on the bronze war memorial plaque installed by the Memorial Association.