Military

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A Guide To Obtaining Your DD-214 and Receiving Your Medals

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Store Your Service Medals in a Life Chest for Future Generations

A How-To Guide on Obtaining DD-214

The Freedom Life Chest™ and The Patriot Life Chest™ are the perfect place to store and memorialize a veteran’s legacy, beginning with their service medals. Their time spent in service, with valor and sacrifice, honoring and protecting our country, should be recognized and appreciated for years to come. In order to receive a veteran’s service medals however, whether it is by the veteran or by a family member, the first step is to acquire a DD-214.

So what is a DD-214? It is an official form given to you by the United States Department of Defense upon retiring, separating, or discharge from the military. In short, a DD-214 is proof and verification of your military service. Think of it as your ‘one-stop shop’ of a document: it’s the most comprehensive paperwork any military service member has, even above medical records. Whether you’re applying for a home loan or other benefits through the VA, getting ready to retire, or even trying to replace your father’s long-lost medals, obtaining your DD-214 is essential, and will help you in a multitude of ways.

You can request your military service records, and your DD-214 online, by mail, or by fax at:

https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records/

This government website allows you to submit your request ONLINE with eVetRecs, but please note that a written signature by mail or fax is also required in this process.

Also provided on this site is the SF-180 form (in PDF form), which allows you to submit your request by MAIL or FAX.

Who Can Order Records?

You may use this system if you are:

  • A military veteran, or

  • Next of kin of a deceased, former member of the military. The next of kin can be any of the following:

  • Surviving spouse that has not remarried

    • Father

    • Mother

    • Son

    • Daughter

    • Sister

    • Brother

Information Required:

Your request must contain certain basic information for them to locate the service records. This information includes:

  • The veteran’s complete name used while in service

  • Service number

  • Social security number

  • Branch of service

  • Dates of service

  • Date and place of birth (especially if the service number is not known).

  • If you suspect your records may have been involved in the 1973 fire, also include:

    • Place of discharge

    • Last unit of assignment

    • Place of entry into the service, if known.

  • All requests must be signed and dated by the veteran or next-of-kin.

  • If you are the next of kin of a deceased veteran, you must provide proof of death of the veteran such as a copy of death certificate, letter from funeral home, or published obituary.

 

Additional and Recommended Information to Have Ready:

While this information is not required, it is extremely helpful to NPRC staff in understanding and fulfilling your request:

  • The purpose or reason for your request, such as applying for veterans benefits, preparing to retire, or researching your personal military history.

  • Any deadlines related to your request. We will do our best to meet any priorities. For example, you may be applying for a VA-guaranteed Home Loan and need to provide proof of military service by a specific date.

  • Any other specific information, documents or records you require from your Official Military Personnel File (OMPF) besides your Report of Separation (DD Form 214).

For additional details on what information may or may not be included, please see the Special Notice to veterans and Family Members regarding requests for copies of military personnel and/or medical files.

 

Cost:

Generally there is no charge for basic military personnel and medical record information provided to veterans, next-of-kin and authorized representatives from Federal (non-archival) records. If your request involves a service fee, you will be notified as soon as that determination is made.

However, Archival OMPFs are subject to the NARA fee schedule that authorizes the Agency to collect fees from the public for copies of archival records (44 USC 2116c and 44 USC 2307).

Online, mailed and faxed archival requests require the purchase of the COMPLETE photocopy of the OMPF:

  • A routine OMPF of 5 pages or less: $25 flat fee

  • A routine OMPF of 6 pages or more: $70 flat fee (most OMPFs fall in this category)

  • Persons of Exceptional Prominence (PEP) OMPF: $.80 cents per page ($20 minimum)

 

We want to honor the sacrifice and bravery of our country’s veterans as well as protect and secure their legacy, whether it’s through a Life Chest itself, or extending a helping hand. The dedication to the values of honor, courage and commitment should be recognized through family and friends forever more.

 

“With the development of The Life Chest I now realize that these moments and stories can be shared by family and friends because the silent voice of each item is a piece of me… the essence of who I am. Thank you for giving the vehicle to share the path I have walked and the path I will explore.”

– Mike Elliott, Golden Knight and founder of The All Veteran Group

John Williams

Veteran

John is a small business owner and served in the Marine Corps in Vietnam. Wounded in the war he was awarded a Purple Heart. Now retired, John enjoys spending time on his Virginia ranch with his wife Catherine. Every Christmas their six grandchildren come to visit, and it’s become a family tradition to go through Granddad’s Life Chest after dinner.

John’s Freedom Life Chest 

The Contents 

  • Keychain from his first car

  • His father’s watch

  • Dog tags

  • Letters from his wife she sent while he was serving

  • Sergeant Chevron

  • Purple Heart

  • Photos of Vietnam & guys from his unit

Navy Spouses

We want to thank Lindsay Bradford for beginning her Life Chest journey! We are honored to be a part of it!

 "So excited! I have officially started my The Life Chest journey. So far I have included the three military spouse magazines from MSOY events, challenge coins, the cards from my amazing Branch Spouses and fellow MSOYs, sea air and space name card which was a special event for me, and my ticket from the holocaust museum. Can't wait to keep adding. ‪#‎navysoy16‬ ‪#‎navywife‬ ‪#‎navyspouse‬ ‪#‎navylife‬ ‪#‎milespouse‬‪#‎blessed‬ (thank you Donna, I received the mug!)"

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder - What You Need to Know

Fighting for our country is one of the most honorable things anyone can do. After being involved in warfare, travel, conditioning and a multitude of extraordinary experiences, soldiers go through so much by the end of their service. It can become strenuous to overlook the obstacles our veterans have overcome, and  upon their return, even day to day tasks can be trying.

Certain wars seem to have had more of an impact on the human brain than others. For example, a study was conducted on veterans of The Gulf War. In this study, it was found that high stress related experiences from a veteran's past greatly increased the chance of experiencing some sort of PTSD. In addition to PTSD, some veterans have experienced CFS (Chronic-Fatigue Syndrome) as a result of the warfare.

What exactly is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder? "PTSD is diagnosed after a person experiences symptoms for at least one month following a traumatic event. However, symptoms may not appear for several months or even years later." PTSD is something that should be taken very seriously as it could potentially change a life forever.

In a study where veterans and non-veterans were tested for reactions to sounds of warfare and mental arithmetic, it was clear that the veterans responded differently. As the sound of the warfare audio was increased, the veterans showed higher blood pressure and a faster heartbeat. These responses are no coincidence. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder can be a serious problem in the health of our veterans.

You may know someone that is suffering from PTSD.

These are the symptoms:

  • Re-experiencing the trauma through intrusive distressing recollection of the event, flashbacks, and nightmares.

  • Emotional numbness and avoidance of places, people, and activities that are reminders of the trauma.

  • Increased arousal such as difficulty sleeping and concentrating, feeling jumpy, and being easily irritated and angry.

Any of the above items may mean that an individual is dealing with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. So if we know the symptoms, how do we help cope with and treat PTSD?

There is no right or wrong answer. Some experts think that exercise can work wonders for people dealing with PTSD. It is also important to regulate yourself through mindful breathing which can quickly calm you down. Connecting with others by volunteering to assist someone in need can also relieve an individual of PTSD symptoms. 

Make sure that if you or someone you know is suffering from PTSD, you take into consideration the following guidelines. It can make a world of difference.

  • Take time to relax

  • Avoid alcohol and drugs

  • Eat a healthy diet

  • Get enough sleep

Also remember that it is very important not to force someone you know to talk about his or her PTSD. Keep in mind that is very difficult for people who have PTSD to talk about the negative experiences they have had. Let them lead and discuss it when they are ready, if ever.

For any veterans currently seeking disability claims, we recommend you follow this link to Hill & Ponton Disability Attorneys. There you will find that they have recovered $250 million for clients over 30 years. You can also check out their blog page for more articles on PTSD, disability claims, and more!

 

Sources:

paradigmmalibu.com

http://aje.oxfordjournals.org/content/157/2/141.short

http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF01064817

https://www.adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/posttraumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd/symptoms

http://www.helpguide.org/articles/ptsd-trauma/post-traumatic-stress-disorder.htm

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Lindsay Bradford & Her Legacy Life Chest

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Lindsay Bradford is not ordinary by any means, she is an amazing woman with a heart of gold. Nothing has ever gotten in the way of Lindsay, the wife of Navy serviceman Jordan Bradford, she knew she would impact the world in a positive way from a young age. She has helped military spouses gain valuable experience in their careers, and her ability to demonstrate real world help to military spouses is exponential.

Lindsay received her Life Chest and we want to share her kind words with you!

"Came home after three weeks not he road to finally see this beauty up close and ultra personal!! Look at how BEAUTIFUL this The Life Chest is. It is HUGE!! There are so many fun and personal goodies in it (including a mug - and we all know how obsessed with collecting mugs I am)!! So blessed and thankful for this. Stunning. Thank you Donna!! ‪#‎msoy16‬‪#‎navysoy16‬ ‪#‎navyspouse‬ ‪#‎navywife‬ ‪#‎navylife‬ ‪#‎milspouse‬ ‪#‎blessed‬" 

Honoring His Legacy

Pat Tillman was a man with many talents. As an athlete, Pat had no limits. He played both football and baseball at an elite level. Pat was offered a scholarship to play football at Arizona State University. He excelled both on and off the field by demonstrating a 3.85 GPA accompanied by the award for PAC-10 Defensive Player of the Year. Pat also won a Rose Bowl while at Arizona State.

         After college, Pat decided to take his skills to the next level. He was offered a contract by the St. Louis Rams of the NFL. However, out of loyalty to his hometown Arizona Cardinals, he took less money to play for them. In the 2000 season, Pat was named to the NFL All-Pro team. Unfortunately, the coming years would present some significant world events changed Pat’s life forever.

            Pat and his brother Kevin always took pride in honoring America. No matter what the issue was, the duo always had America’s back. Therefore, the 9/11 attacks on the Twin Towers were taken personal by the two brothers. After finishing up the 2001 NFL season, Pat and his brother ultimately decided to enlist in the Armed Forces. As in everything Pat did, he excelled as an Army Ranger.

            Pat was deployed to Forward Operating Base Salerno in 2004. On Aprill 22, 2004, his platoon was ambushed. Pat’s life was taken that faithful day while in combat. He was 27 years old.

            However, Pat’s legacy still lives on today. The honorable and significant life he lived will never be forgotten. He sacrificed everything in his life to defend his country. This is a story of true courage and meaning.

            Let you and your families legacy live on as well.

Sources: media.npr.org foxnews.com blog.oregonlive.com

The Life Chest at The Military Spouse Awards

The following individuals have made significant contributions to military families around the world. To honor them, The Ranger Group Foundation© has donated a Life Chest to each of them.

Dave Etter: USAG Kaiserlautern

Husband of Stephanie Etter of the United States Army, Dave Etter is a United States Navy veteran. During his service, Dave was a Navy submariner. One of Dave’s many talents is his ability to entertain. In addition to playing the trombone for large military crowds, Dave connects military members around the world together on his own radio show. In addition, Dave has spent over 8,000 hours of his life volunteering with the military and with boy scouts. Dave will continue to demonstrate his desire to successfully guide military families in the right direction via his radio show. The Life Chest™ has provided Dave with his very own Freedom Chest Life Chest. The Life Chest™ is filled with the most personal and intimate keepsakes that help Dave share his journey through life thus far.

Inside David’s Freedom Life Chest:

  • Grilling Cook Book

  • Marvel Comics

  • Challenge Coins

  • Poker Set

 Natasha Harth: Marine Corps Barracks Washington

Passion and pride; two words that truly defy Natasha Harth. Natasha is the wife of Patrick Harth of the Marine Corps. Natasha has always been one to give. The heart she has instilled within the military does not go unnoticed. As a result of working a part time job, Natasha has bought clothing and supplies for underprivileged kids. While living in the D.C. area, Natasha noticed the astonishing amount of homeless individuals in the area. Then, she took action. Natasha formed the non-profit organization “Be a Blessing.” This organization is gaining notoriety for handing donation bags out to the local homeless population. The most important message Natasha delivers is to help people in need of support. The Life Chest™ has given The Aristocrat Life Chest to Natasha. This Life Chest commemorates the abundance of good deeds she has provided for so many lives over time.

Inside Natasha’s Aristocrat Life Chest:

  • Cooking with Caramels Book

  • German Shepard Cookie Cutter

  • An Apron

  • A Brownie Scout Song Book

Lindsay Bradford: NS Newport           

Nothing has ever gotten in the way of Lindsay Bradford. She is the wife of Navy serviceman Jordan Bradford. From a young age, Lindsay knew what she wanted to do in life. While working her way up through Target Corporation, Lindsay gained the ability to see what companies desired in an employee. She also began to help military spouses gain valuable experience in their careers. Her ability to demonstrate real world help to military spouses is exponential. Lindsay has been provided with The Legacy Life Chest. This chest symbolizes her character and outspoken personality. This Life Chest is packed with items that bring joyful meaning to Lindsay’s life for now and for years to come.

Inside Lindsay’s Legacy Life Chest:

  • Photos of the Naval Academy Chapel

  • Northwest Territorial Mint for the Naval Academy

  • Habitat for Humanity Book

  • An Arizona State Mug

Michelle Aikman: Fairchild AFB

Wife of Air Force serviceman Robert Aikman, Michelle Aikman is a one of a kind individual. Her drive for professional success and satisfaction are among her best qualities. However, she took this a step further by founding SkilledAssets, an organization specialized in guiding careers after the military. In addition to this wonderful organization, Michelle is also open to all spousal challenges within military life. Michelle was given The Regent Life Chest. Inside of the chest are inspiring artifacts related to her positive influence on military families.

Inside Michelle’s Regent Life Chest:

  • Kickboxing Gloves

  • Joaane Fabrics© Gift Card

  • Pumpitude Book Series

  • RISE Book

Jennifer Mullen: USCG District 1

10 deployments into service. That is what Jennifer Mullen and her husband Tom have had to go through. Tom serves in the United States Coast Guard. After receiving a degree in Project Management, Jennifer was offered a job at a telecommunications company. In her spare time, Jennifer runs her blog, The Coastie Voice. This blog helps to progress Coast Guard families to be ready for whatever life throws at them. She dreams to one day bring together children of Coast Guard families. This will assure the children are ready for constant changes in their life. Jennifer received The Florence Life Chest. Her Life Chest is filled with wonderful reminders of the great deeds she has done.

Inside Jennifer’s Florence Life Chest:

  • Learning to Quilt Book

  • Marathon Training Book

  • Boston Tourist Map

  • Boston University Scarf

Cara Loken: Nebraska Air National Guard

Cara Loken has been through a significant amount of hardship. At one point, both her husband and son were deployed in Afghanistan. However, she has never let go of her positive outlook on life. Cara has been helping families through the same hardship she went through for quite some time. In fact, Cara’s efforts have been helping families through military deployment for years. Her concern regarding Post-Traumatic Stress is above all. Cara actually dreams to one-day match veterans dealing with PTSD with pets from shelters. We cannot thank her enough for the sacrifices she has made. Cara has been presented with The Patriot Life Chest. Considering the amount of dedication she shows to her country, this chest fits perfect.

Inside Cara’s Patriot Life Chest:

  • Nebraska University Football Bracelet

  • Vintage Camera Photo Album

  • Nebraska University Pennant

  • Battle Buddies Book

The Life Chest™ will continue to support and guide military families throughout the world. The preceding individuals are just a few examples of the spectacular comfort military spouses provide. If you are interested in purchasing a Life Chest, please visit our collection. From baby showers to marriages, The Life Chest™ can fit your needs accordingly!

The Hometown Heroes Life Chest™ in Crains Detroit Business

Reclaimed wood from Detroit's blighted houses is ending up doing its patriotic duty in the form of hope chests for veterans.

The creation of the Hometown Heroes Life Chest involves three companies: Detroit-basedRickman Enterprise Group LLC, which removes reusable wood before demolishing a house; Livonia-based End Grain Woodworking Co., which makes the chests using the reclaimed wood; and Troy-based Life Chest, which markets and sells the suitcase-sized wood boxes.

"Our goal is to eventually hire vets to build these," said Donna Yost, owner of Life Chest.

Rod Rickman, chairman and CEO of Rickman Enterprise, is a veteran, and 20 to 25 of his 98 employees are vets. "We try to hire vets to harvest the wood," he said.

Hardwood floors, studs, beams and joists are removed to be used for the hope chests and other items.

 

End Grain, co-owned by Chris Behm, makes the chests. The company also makes tap handles forAtwater Brewery, tables, chess boards, coasters and candleholders from reclaimed wood.

"The more people use the wood, the more wood that is kept out of landfills," Behm said. 

Behm always labels his company's items with the address of the house where the wood came from. 

Construction of the Hometown Heroes chests for public purchase has not officially started, but Behm said his goal, depending on demand, is to make 100 a month. 

Yost and Behm had the idea to make the chests for veterans. Rickman's part in the collaborative project was to remove the old-growth wood from the houses they were demolishing and reuse it. 

The reclaimed wood chests will sell for roughly $349. They feature a removable tray with grooves for coins and poker chips. In front of the tray are four holes to store shot glasses, and there's room for a bottle of spirits. The chests' side handles are weathered-looking bottle openers. The chests also can be used to store memorabilia from a soldier's time in combat, Yost said. 

She said she is talking to southwest Detroit nonprofit Southwest Solutions about training veterans to become woodworkers so they can build the chests. 

Life Chest makes 34 types of hope chests that have motifs ranging from Asian to babies to traditional. They range from $349 to $1,499, which is the price of the Freedom Life Chest, a large hope chest geared to veterans. 

"We have given these to military families with a loved one who is injured or deceased," said Yost, who is married to Art Van Furniture CEO Kim Yost.

Except for the Hometown Heroes chests, the Life Chests are made in China. The company's 2014 and 2015 combined sales were $500,000. This year, it hopes to hit $1 million if it lands a contract with SCI Dignity Memorial Funeral Homes. Yost has learned that the chests can be incorporated into funeral proceedings as a place for mourners to drop off mementos for the deceased's family.

The chests are for sale in furniture stores and on Overstock.com and Wayfair.com. 

"We are trying to raise funds to pay for Freedom Life Chests to give them to all the athletes participating in the Invictus Games (in Orlando, Fla., in May)," she added. The games are a worldwide athletic competition for injured servicemen and women.