What’s Up Doc? Veterans’ Military Records and Documents You’ll Need

For you NG’s separating or about to separate from the military now, be sure that all your military records are accurate.  I know you got a lot to think about, but this is the time you need to be sure your medical records and your personnel file are correct and up-to-date.

Paperwork!  I don’t like it either.  But there are certain docs you’re gonna need and you’re gonna need ‘em for other things and you’re gonna need ‘em over and over. That’s just the way it is, soldier.

For you NG’s separating or about to separate from the military now, be sure that all your military records are accurate.  I know you got a lot to think about, but this is the time you need to be sure your medical records and your personnel file are correct and up-to-date.

 Why? Well for one thing, your medical records follow you from here on.  Any medical benefits you claim from the VA will go back to your military records.  And personnel files will include not just performance evaluations, but also licenses and certifications. Pretty useful info when you’re out in the civilian world looking for a job, wouldn’t you say?

 I know you’ll be surprised when I tell you there’s a form for that.  It’s DD Form 2586, and it verifies your military training and experience, so it’s not just you sitting across from the Human Resources interviewer assuring them of your skills and experience.

 Outranking the DD-2586 is the DD-214, your certificate of release or discharge from active duty.  This baby’s a keeper, as in keep the original in a safe, fireproof place.  But just before you do that, make at least 10 certified copies.  How? If there’s a Vet Center near you, they can certify it and put a copy in their files.  If that’s not an option, most towns or counties have a registrar’s office, and they can certify copies for you.

Now, suppose you find that there’s an error somewhere in your personnel file or your medical records.  No problem.  That’s what the DD-149 is for.  It’s called the “Application for Correction of Military or Naval Record” and you can find it here.

 Your grandma ever tell you, a stitch in time saves nine? She meant if you take care of  details now, you’ll save yourself a whole lotta hassle later. ‘Nuff said.

 One last thing:  never, never, ever give out the original document, you hear me?  Never.  That’s what those certified copies are for, and why you keep that original doc pristine and safe somewhere.

 Welcome home, soldier!

 Dave Culmer, Semper Fi