Requesting Your Military Records

Many older military personnel and medical records are held by the National Personnel Records Center, part of the National Archives. Veterans and next of kin can request these records using the standard SF-180 form or through the Archives' online request system. More recent records may be available through Department of Defense online services. Some records were damaged in a major fire at the records center in 1973, which affected certain Army and Air Force files. If your records were affected, alternate sources may be used to rebuild the file.

Ask for the complete personnel file, not only the DD-214, since the full file includes assignments, training, evaluations and job specialty history. Request service treatment records as well, because they may show symptoms, exposures or examinations during service. For Navy, Coast Guard or Marine veterans who served aboard ships, deck logs and muster rolls are separate requests. Being specific in your request, including the full name used during service, service number or Social Security number, branch and approximate dates, helps the Archives find the right records faster. Mention clearly if the request is urgent because of a serious illness.

Record requests can take weeks or longer, depending on workload and the type of request. Urgent requests related to a terminal illness may be handled faster if you explain the circumstances and include supporting information. Once records arrive, make several copies and store one complete set somewhere safe. Share copies with your service officer and any attorney rather than sending originals that could be lost. If the records turn out to be incomplete, your representative can help identify other sources, such as unit records, pay records or statements from people you served with.

1. 1

   Submit a records request using SF-180 or the National Archives online system.

2. 2

   Ask for the complete personnel file and service treatment records, not just the DD-214.

3. 3

   Note on the request that it is urgent because of a serious illness.

4. 4

   Make copies of all records received and share copies, not originals, with helpers.