Getting Military Records of Family Members

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Shadowbox displaying military medals and flag
A shadowbox is displayed during the celebration of 100-year-old U.S. Army Air Corps and Air Force veteran during his birthday celebration at Spokane Veterans medical Center, Jan. 21, 2015, Spokane, Wash. George “Bud” Garvin, born in 1915, served 30 years in the United States armed forces and retired as a major in the U.S. Air Force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Alexandre Montes)

Have you lost or need to replace an individual's service record? Know what information you are entitled to and how to go about receiving it.

An individual's complete service record is available to the former service member or, if deceased, to his/her next of kin (parents, spouse, or children). Limited information (such as dates of service, awards, and training) is available to anyone.

Not available to the general public is information which would invade an individual's privacy; for example, medical records, Social Security number, or present address.

There is no charge for this service to former service members or their next of kin. For others, a nominal fee is charged for research and reproduction costs.

How to Request Service Information

The National Archives online program eVetRecs is the preferred and fastest method for requesting service information. Provide as much information as possible in the comments field. Should you prefer to submit your request using a SF180 then provide as much information as possible and send the form to:

National Personnel Records Center
Military Personnel Records
1 Archives Drive
St. Louis, MO 63138

Or Fax to:

314-801-9195

How Long Does It Take To Receive Copies of Records?

According to the National Personnel Records Center 92% of separation record requests are processed within 10 days of receipt. However, health records may take longer. The eVetRecs website has instructions for emergency requests needing faster processing.

Know All Your Legal Rights and Benefits

Be aware and get what you are entitled to. Keep up with all the legal benefits available to you as a service member, veteran or spouse and get updates delivered straight to your inbox by subscribing to Military.com.

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