The most common question that I receive from veterans and families of veterans is, “How can I get a copy of the DD214?”
The DD form 214, is the certificate of release or discharge from military service. This form was first issued in 1950, replacing the older “WD AGO” (War Department Adjutant General’s Office) forms and the ‘NAVPERS” (Naval Personnel) discharge documents. These documents existed since 1941. DD214 Form is the completed history of military service, including time served, MOS, Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC), Navy Enlisted Classification (NEC) highest rank, length of service, type of discharge, and list of medals awarded.
This is a very important form for veterans and their families, as it is needed to obtain the veteran's benefits. If you have this form, I strongly suggest that you make copies of it and attach a copy to your will and your wife’s will. Attach a copy to your employment application, as that may add your service time to your retirement pension. It is also needed to join veteran’s organization and obtain medical, and educational home loans from the VA.
EDUCATIONAL: The veteran can earn assistance paying for traditional degrees, on-the-job training, certification licensing, apprenticeship, and other educational opportunities.
HEALTHCARE: Open to most veterans especially if you enlisted after September 7, 1980, or started active duty after October 16, 1981, and served at least 24 consecutive months. The VA health includes complete health care. It also helps cover burial or cremation for you and your spouse. It can also help cover the cost of the headstone and flag even if you do not go to a National Veterans cemetery.
HOUSING: The VA has many programs in place to help secure home loans along with other housing benefits. If you are a disabled veteran, you may qualify for benefits that make your home easier for you to live in, such as wheelchair ramps.
As a veteran, you should consider joining a veteran organization such as the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, or AMVETs. These organizations not only offer fellowship and social gatherings with other veterans but also help if you have veteran questions or problems. They can also keep you updated on new information regarding veteran care and benefits.
In addition, they also can inform you of different businesses that offer veteran discounts in your area saving you lots of money. They are also the ones who fight for us to the help we need from the government. For example, it was the American Legion that got us the GI bill. They also require a copy of the DD214 form to become a member.
If you do not have your copy of the DD214 form you can obtain a free copy from the National Personnel Records Center (the government agency tasked with replacing lost and destroyed DD Form 214s upon request from a veteran). Requested copies are mailed from the Military Personnel Records Center. The easiest way to obtain a copy is to go online and request a copy of the Department of Defense Standard Form 180 (“SF180”). Fill it out and follow the directions as to where to return the form to.
Many places are offering to get the DD214 form for you for a fee, but you can get it for free and not be scammed by some of those other offers.
Help is available to you by calling the local VA hospital in Northport, (631) 261-4400, or Veterans Crisis Line 1 (800) 273-8255 Press 1 to talk to a veteran or have a confidential chat at veteranscrisisline.net or text to 838255. If you have any questions relating to veteran problems, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will do our best to answer it. Contact us at drfred72@gmail.com.