How to Obtain Your Father's Military Records Without a DD 214

Military records are a crucial part of your family history, providing insights into your father's service and legacy. If you need to obtain documents for your father but do not have a DD 214, there are several steps you can follow to gather the necessary records. This guide will walk you through the process and highlight key resources.

Determine the Type of Records Needed

First, clarify what specific records you require. Depending on your needs, you might seek the entire military record, certain documents like a DD 214, medical records, or service records. Clarifying your requirements early on will streamline the process.

Gather Required Information

To request the correct documents, you will need to collect as much information as possible about your father. This includes:

Full name Service number (if known) Social Security Number Date of birth Branch of service Dates of service enlistment and discharge

The more comprehensive your information, the easier it will be to locate the records.

Complete Standard Form 180 (SF-180)

Fill out Standard Form 180 (SF-180), which is specifically designed to request access to Department of Defense personnel and property records.

You can find this form online through the National Archives website. This form can be filled out using a web browser, downloaded, and printed for manual completion if preferred.

Submit the Request

Once your form is filled out, you can submit it in several ways:

By Mail: Address your request to the appropriate branch of the military. By Fax: Some branches of the military accept faxed requests. Online: You can submit your request through the National Archives eVetRecs system.

Ensure you have the correct address or fax number for the branch your father served with. If the records are more than 62 years old, they may be open to the public, making online or in-person visits an option.

Contact the National Archives for Support

If you encounter any difficulties in the process, you can reach out to the National Archives for assistance:

Email: You can find contact information on their website, or use the form provided there. Phone: 1-866-272-6272

The staff at the National Archives can provide guidance and help you navigate the process, making it less daunting.

Consider Alternative Documentation

If you face difficulty in obtaining the records, consider other types of documentation that may be available, such as:

Military ID cards Awards and decorations Enlistment papers

These records can still provide valuable information about your father's service.

Summary

To obtain your father's military records, start by gathering as much information as possible, complete SF-180, and submit your request to the appropriate branch of the military or the National Archives. If you need help, don't hesitate to contact the National Archives for support. Various alternative documents may also be available, depending on your needs.

Visit the National Archives website, use the provided forms and links, and contact their customer service for any additional guidance. Your father's service history deserves to be documented and preserved, ensuring that future generations can learn from and honor his legacy.