The DD Form 214, also known as the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, is the official document that details a service member's military service, including dates of service, discharge status, and awards received. It is commonly used for veterans to access benefits and services. In contrast, the DD Form 217 does not exist; it is likely a confusion with another form or designation. The primary document for discharge information is the DD214.
According to the website United States Department of Veterans Affairs, DD214 has been issued by military services since January 1, 1950. Before January 1, 1950, several similar forms were used by the military services. DD256A is listed as Honorable Discharge Certificate. However, a Form DD256A may have been issued after 1950 if that form was still in possession of the signer, who hadn't switched over to DD214.
The DD Form 214 (DD214) is a document issued to military personnel upon their retirement, separation, or discharge from active duty, detailing their service record and entitlements. In contrast, the DD Form 217 is less commonly referenced and typically pertains to the service of members of the National Guard who are released from active duty and may not contain the same comprehensive information as a DD214. Essentially, the DD214 serves as the primary record for veterans, while the DD217 has more specialized use.
You can get free copies through this site http://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records/get-service-records.html
In North Carolina
The DD Form 214, or Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, is a document provided to military personnel upon their separation from active duty. It includes details about the service member's time in the military, such as the dates of service and the type of discharge received. Selective Service refers to the system used in the United States to register eligible individuals for potential conscription into military service. While the DD214 itself does not directly relate to Selective Service, it may be required for certain benefits or to confirm military service when applying for jobs or educational programs.
DD214 is the discharge form. DD256 is the discharge certificate.
The DD214 (US Military Discharge) has an awards/decorations section where all would be listed
Just ask to see a persons military id card, if they are currently serving. If they are prior service (out of the military) then ask to see their DD214. (discharge papers) The DD214 is the only real proof of military service.
According to the website United States Department of Veterans Affairs, DD214 has been issued by military services since January 1, 1950. Before January 1, 1950, several similar forms were used by the military services. DD256A is listed as Honorable Discharge Certificate. However, a Form DD256A may have been issued after 1950 if that form was still in possession of the signer, who hadn't switched over to DD214.
Basically anyone that has a DD214. This document includes the service record and discharge information for the veteran.
If you want to re-enlist in the military, take your DD214's to a recruiter and have them file an appeal with the Department of Defense about your discharge. The recruiter will let you know what the DoD is requiring you to do to get back in the service. The other thing to do would be file an appeal with the Department of Defense on your discharge. There is no way to change your enlistment code on your DD214's because that would be considered fraud.
You can get free copies through this site http://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records/get-service-records.html
In North Carolina
According to the Veterans Benefits website any veteran who served active duty for 90 days consecutively, had an honorable discharge and has their DD214 discharge card qualifies for military discounts. The discharge card is necessary in order to receive one.
Bupersman 3420180.2c-265 on a DD214 refers to a specific instruction related to the Navy's personnel management and administrative processes. It outlines guidelines for the completion and distribution of the DD214 form, which is essential for documenting a service member's military service, including their discharge status and time served. This designation helps ensure consistency and accuracy in how discharge documentation is handled within the Navy.
Almost always, you can not change your discharge from the US military from "other than honorable" to "honorable". On very rare occasions, you MIGHT be able to do this, however, you would have to prove that the discharge was incorrectly listed on your DD214.
Your DD214, which can be obtained through the Department of Veterans' Affairs details your service and discharge.