REPLACING MILITARY RECORDS
If discharge or separation papers
are lost, duplicate copies may be obtained by contacting:
National Personnel Records Center, Military Personnel Records, 9700 Page Boulevard, Saint
Louis, Missouri 63132-5100.
Specify that a duplicate separation document or discharge
is needed.
The veteran's full name should be printed or typed so
that it can be read clearly, but the request must also contain the signature of the next
of kin if the veteran is deceased. Include branch of service, service number or Social
Security number, and exact or approximate dates and years of service. Use Standard Form
180, "Request Pertaining to Military Records", which is available from VA
offices and some veterans' organizations.
It is not necessary to request a duplicate copy of a
veteran's discharge or separation papers solely for the purpose of filing a claim for VA
benefits. If complete information about the veteran's service is furnished on the
application for benefits, the VA will obtain verification of service from the National
Personnel Records Center or the service department concerned.
In a medical emergency, information from a veteran's
records may be obtained by phoning the appropriate service; Army at 314-538-4261; Air
Force at 314-538-4243; Navy, Marine Corps or Coast Guard at 314-538-4141.
