Locate a Veteran's DD Form 214
Helping Families Preserve a Veteran's Legacy
Whether you're applying for VA benefits, planning military funeral honors, replacing lost records, researching family history, or simply preserving your loved one's military legacy, American Legion Post 560 is here to help.
What is a DD Form 214?
A veteran's DD Form 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) is one of the most important military documents a family can have. It verifies military service and is often required to access veterans' benefits and services.
Who Can Request Military Records?
Military service records may be requested by:
- The Veteran
- The Veteran's legal representative
- Next of kin of a deceased Veteran (such as a surviving spouse, parent, child, or sibling)
- Individuals with written authorization from the Veteran
Information You'll Need
To help locate military records, gather as much of the following information as possible:
- ›Veteran's full legal name used during military service
- ›Social Security Number and/or Service Number (if known)
- ›Date and place of birth
- ›Branch of military service
- ›Approximate dates of service
- ›Date of death (if applicable)
- ›Relationship to the Veteran (for next-of-kin requests)
The more information you can provide, the easier it is to locate the correct records.
Request Records Online
The fastest way to request a DD Form 214 is through the National Archives' online request system.
You can also submit a completed Standard Form 180 (SF-180) by mail or fax if preferred.
Need Assistance?
If you're unsure where to begin or need help completing the request, American Legion Post 560 is happy to assist veterans and their families.
Our Veteran Service Officer can help you:
- Determine eligibility to request records
- Complete required forms
- Locate military discharge records
- Understand what documents may be needed
- Connect with additional veteran resources
We are honored to help preserve the service and legacy of America's veterans.
Why Keep a DD Form 214?
A DD Form 214 may be required for:
- ›VA health care enrollment
- ›Disability compensation
- ›GI Bill education benefits
- ›VA home loan eligibility
- ›Military funeral honors
- ›Burial in a national cemetery
- ›Veteran identification cards
- ›State veteran benefits
- ›Membership in veteran service organizations, including The American Legion
Every veteran and every family should keep multiple secure copies of this important document.
Post 560 Is Here to Help
Contact us today and let our Veteran Service Officer guide you through the process.