Most veterans and their next of kin can obtain FREE copies of their DD Form 214 (Report of Separation) via online access. To use the system, you must be a military veteran, next of kin of a deceased member of the military, or former member of the military.

How do I get a replacement DD214 form?

Get A Replacement Copy of Your DD214 You can request a FREE copy of your DD Form 214 simply by visiting the official United States Government site and filling out an online form.

What is a DD Form 256af?

A Form DD 256 is a certificate of honorable discharge utilized by the U.S. Department of Defense and the different branches of military service. An honorable discharge occurs when a service person successfully completes a term of duty with one of the military branches.

How can I prove military service?

Here are a few common methods veterans can use to verify military service:

  1. Military ID Card (active duty, National Guard, Reserves, IRR, or retiree).
  2. VA Issued ID Card for Health Care.
  3. Veterans ID Card (starting Nov.
  4. Veterans Designation on Drivers License or State Veterans ID Card (almost all states now offer this)

How to replace military service records and awards?

Inquiries and requests for replacement medals should be submitted on a signed and dated letter or SF Form 180. Supporting documents, such as a copy of the veteran’s DD Form 214, will facilitate the process. Requests should be submitted to the National Archives and Records Administration, 1 Archives Drive, St. Louis, MO 63138-1002. Call

How to check the status of your military records?

Check the Status of Your Military Records Request To check the status of your order for recent records (World War I – Present), contact the National Personnel Records Center. For older military records (generally before 1917), contact the National Archives. Get a Military or Veteran Identification (ID) Card

Where can I get a copy of a veteran’s military record?

If you’re the next of kin of a Veteran who has passed away. You can request a copy of the Veteran’s military records in any of these ways: Mail or fax a Request Pertaining to Military Records (Standard Form SF 180) to the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC).

How can I get my medals back from the VA?

This form can be downloaded from Each request should be filled out neatly, and should include the veteran’s branch of service, social security number, dates of service, and it should be signed by the veteran or the next of kin if the veteran is incapacitated or deceased.