How to Request a Copy of Military Records
The process to obtain a copy of military records involves filing a request. To file the request, a specific form must be submitted in compliance with the 1974 Privacy Act, which requires all record requests be conducted in writing. The form differs according to the nature of the request, whether you are the veteran, the veteran's next of kin or a general, everyday citizen.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
Requesting as the Veteran or Next of Kin
-
1
Begin by filing an online request at https://vetrecs.archives.gov/VeteranRequest/home.asp. During the first step of the online process at this site, you will enter your information and the information you are seeking. First, you will need to elaborate on whether you are the veteran or the veteran's next of kin. Next, if you are not the veteran, you must explain your relationship to the veteran. Then, decide on the information you are seeking, whether it is former or current military service.
-
2
Continue to the second step of the online request process once you click to confirm that you are the veteran or the veteran's next of kin. If you are looking for records on a current military service, you will be prompted to contact the veteran's current unit or service department. On the second step online, for former military service, you will continue to answer questions regarding military branch, service component, position status, reason for the request and the specifics of that request.
-
-
3
Follow the prompts on the right side of the screen once you finish answering the questions. On the next page, you will fill out information on the veteran so that you can submit the records request. You will need the veteran's full name used during his military service, his date of birth, Social Security number, place of birth and date he left service.
-
4
Continue to the next page and enter the address and name of the recipient of the records. Once all information is entered, continue to the next page to verify and then print the records request form. Sign and date the printed form.
-
5
Include a death certificate, published obituary or funeral home letter with a request for a deceased veteran's military records. Mail or fax the signed form and proof of death to: NPRC WEB 9700 Page Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63132-5100.
For General Public Access to Records
-
6
Download and print out a copy of the Standard Form 180 at the following web address: http://www.archives.gov/research/order/standard-form-180.pdf
-
7
Fill out this form with the information necessary to locate the veteran's military records. Include information regarding what specific military record documents you are requesting, and your name and the address to which you request these documents be sent. Sign the Standard Form 180 and date.
-
8
Mail the completed form to the appropriate address for the military branch of which the veteran was a member. Use the chart on the third page of the form to find the appropriate address, based on the veteran's branch and date of service.
-
1
