Military Records
Veterans' Service RecordsMost veterans and their next-of-kin can obtain free copies of their DD Form 214 (Report of
Separation) several ways.
Visit archives.gov for more complete instructions.
• NOTE: If the next of kin is requesting the records, a copy of the veterans death certificate
must be provided.
Pdf Instruction Sheet
Replace Lost Medals and Awards For information regarding how to request replacement of lost or damaged medals and awards, visit archives.gov.
Requirements for Benefit Submission An original or VA certified copy of the veterans honorable release from duty must be submitted with the application for benefits.
Visit The National Archives WebsiteVeterans Administration's Periods of Wartime
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World War IApril 6, 1917, through November 11, 1918, inclusive. If the
veteran served with the United States military forces in Russia, the
ending date is April 1, 1920. Service after November 11, 1918 and before
July 2, 1921 is considered World War I service if the veteran served in the active military, naval, or air service after April 5, 1917 and before
November 12, 1918. 
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World War IIDecember 7, 1941, through December 31, 1946, inclusive.
If the veteran was in service on December 31, 1946, continuous service
before July 26, 1947, is considered World War II service.
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Korean ConflictJune 27, 1950, through January 31, 1955, inclusive.
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Vietnam EraThe period beginning on February 28, 1961, and ending on
May 7, 1975, inclusive, in the case of a veteran who served in the Republic of Vietnam during that period. The period beginning on August 5, 1964, and ending on May 7, 1975, inclusive, in all other cases. (Authority: 38 U.S.C. 101(29)