Center for Women Veterans (CWV)

Frequently Asked Questions - Locating and Upgrading Military Records

1. How do I change, correct, or modify my discharge or dismissal?
2. How do I locate my military records or those of a relative?

1.  How do I change, correct, or modify my discharge or dismissal?

You can apply for a review of your discharge by contacting the appropriate Service Review Board:

• Air Force:  Air Force Discharge Review Board
• Army  Army Review Board Agency (ARBA)
  Note:  The Army now accepts online applications for changes using the ACTSOnline system.
• Coast Guard  Board for Correction of Military Records of the Coast Guard
• Navy and Marine Corps:
  • The Board for Correction of Naval Records
  • Secretary of the Navy — Council of Review Boards (SECNAVCORB)including Naval Discharge Review Board (NDRB)

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2.  How do I locate my military records or those of a relative?

To obtain copies of your military records and/or “Report of Separation from Active Military Service” (DD Form 214 or equivalent), you must submit a “Request Pertaining to Military Records” (SF 180) to the records custodian of your branch of service.  Addresses for each service’s records custodian are found on page 2 of the SF 180.  The SF 180 requires a signature and must be submitted either by mail or fax.  Contact the National Personnel Records Center, Military Personnel Records, 9700 Page Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63132-5100, or fax requests to 314-801-9195.  Visit the National Archives website for more information.

If you or your relative has filed a claim with the VA, the VA claims file which may contain Service Treatment Records (STRs), Military personnel file, and DD Form 214.  You may submit a request in writing to the nearest VA Benefits Office or call 1-800-827-1000 for assistance with obtaining these records.

You may also visit eBenefits to verify, review, and print documents from your official Military Personnel File, including your DD 214.

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