Military service records, including the Official Military Personnel File (OMPF), contain a veteran's complete service history: enlistment documents, duty assignments, training, awards, disciplinary actions, medical records, and discharge paperwork. Records are maintained by the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) in St.
10 steps across 1 sections
1. Steps Process
- Determine what records you need — DD-214 only, complete OMPF, medical records, specific documents (awards, training certificates), or personnel qualification records
- Identify the correct repository:
- Recent discharges: milConnect (branch-specific cutoff dates apply)
- Older records: National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) via eVetRecs or SF-180
- Active-duty/current Reserve: your branch's personnel office (HRC for Army, BUPERS for Navy, etc.)
- Choose your request method:
- Online: eVetRecs at archives.gov (fastest for NPRC records); requires ID.me verification
- Mail/Fax: Standard Form 180 (SF-180) to NPRC, 1 Archives Drive, St. Louis, MO 63138; Fax: 314-801-9195
- milConnect: for recent discharges within branch-specific date ranges
- In person: visit the NPRC in St. Louis (by appointment)
Common Mistakes
- Using paid third-party services
- Not providing enough identifying information
- Requesting records affected by the 1973 fire without alternative documentation
- Not knowing branch-specific milConnect dates
- Confusing OMPF with medical records
Pro Tips
- eVetRecs is faster than SF-180 by mail
- Request your complete OMPF
- Next-of-kin access for deceased veterans
- Records become public after 62 years
- The 1973 fire reconstruction program