“DD” in DD214 stands for Department of Defense. The DoD was created in 1949. Before January 1, 1950, several similar separation forms were used by the military services, including the WD AGO 53, WD AGO 55, WD AGO 53-55, NAVPERS 553, NAVMC 78PD, and the NAVCG 553. ALL of these are DD214 equivalents and perfectly,…
Specific Orders, Morning Reports, Ship’s Logs – Custom Research
A veteran’s OMPF is the foundation for ANY research. OMPFs contain a wide range of data, but will vary considerably in their contents. This is the first place one would look for any Veteran’s history. If the record the veteran seeks is there, no additional research need be done. If additional research is required, the…
The copy quality is very poor. How can I get a better quality copy of my record?
We not infrequently get comments regarding the quality of the copies, particularly for older separations. For older separations, the government has microfilmed/microfiched the original documents. We copy off that copy. If the quality of microfilm/microfiche is poor, the copy will be exact – a precise copy of a poor microfilm/microfiche. Since we cannot improve the…
How does Touchstone secure my personal information?
Identity theft is when your personal information is stolen and used illegally, to open accounts in your name. According to the Federal Trade Commission, identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in America. We know you have questions about how, internally, we keep your information safe. After all, we’re requesting your most personal…
Can you tell me if your VetRecs ID cards will allow veterans onto the bases, PX, and commissary?
No. The VetRecs Card will only substantiate service, but it is not authorized for use as an access card to military facilities. Presentation of a VetRecs Card will have the same affect as presenting your DD214 (since we provide you with a certified copy of your DD214 as well). So, wherever you could use your…
Can I access my DD214 Online?
Your DD214 is NOT a “public record,” and therefore it is NOT available through any public records search, service or database. Your DD214 is a private record, protected by the Privacy Act. As such, the facility which holds your record will REQUIRE your written authorization before releasing this document. Unfortunately, the online “public” records search…
What is a Certification of Military Service, and why did I receive that instead of my DD214?
The Certification of Military Service (NA Form 13038) is a legally valid equivalent and a perfect legal substitute for DD214 – for all purposes. On July 12, 1973, a disastrous fire at NPRC (MPR) destroyed approximately 16-18 million Official Military Personnel Files. The affected record collections are described below. Branch Personnel and Period Affected Estimated…
