How to obtain military records

You can request a copy of the information contained in your military records. Here's how to request them:

Difficulty Level: Average      Time Required: 35 Minutes

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Here's How:

1. Download a copy of SF 180. You can also call (314) 538-4261 and request the form be mailed to you
2. Print or type your name, social security number, date of birth, and place of birth in section 1, blocks 1 through 4
3. Print or type your service dates in the applicable spaces in section 1, block 5
4. Indicate whether or not the individual is deceased in section 1, block 6
5. Indicate whether or not the person retired from the military in section 1, block 7
6. Indicate exactly what information you're requesting in section 2
7. Enter your return address and signature in section 3. Only the servicemember, guardian, or next of kin may sign the form
8. Mail the completed form to the address specified on the back side of the SF 180
9. See Features (below) for further information
   

Tips:

1. Next of Kin consists of unremarried widow or widower, son or daughter, father or mother, brother or sister of the deceased veteran
2. You'll need the Adobe Acrobat Viewer in order to view/print the SF 180
3. It may take over 6 months to receive your response from the National Archives and Records Administration
   

Related Features:

• Obtaining a Copy of Your Military Records
• Download SF 180