OBTAINING MILITARY SERVICE RECORDS

Military records are often required for Veterans to access Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, healthcare, education programs, employment opportunities, housing assistance, and other Veteran-related services. Commonly requested records include the DD214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty), military personnel records, service treatment records, awards and decorations records, and other official military documentation.

The Veterans Assistance Commission of Cook County (VACCC) Veteran Service Officer (VSO) Program provides free assistance to eligible Veterans and family members seeking to obtain or replace military records. VACCC VSOs assist individuals by helping identify the appropriate records needed, guiding Veterans through the request process, preparing records request paperwork, and helping connect Veterans with the appropriate federal or military agencies responsible for maintaining official records.

Common Required Documentation

Individuals seeking assistance with obtaining military records should be prepared to provide:

  • Current government-issued photo ID
  • Any available military documentation or prior DD214 copies, if available
  • Full legal name used during military service
  • Date of birth
  • Social Security Number or Service Number, if available
  • Branch of military service
  • Approximate dates of service
  • Current contact information
  • Death Certificate and proof of relationship, if requesting records for a deceased Veteran

Important Notes

  • Processing times for military records requests may vary depending on the agency and type of records requested
  • Certain records requests may require additional identity verification or supporting documentation
  • Some records may have limited accessibility depending on privacy regulations and the requester’s relationship to the Veteran
  • VACCC VSOs provide records request assistance free of charge

Veterans or family members interested in this service must either complete the intake form online using the QR code located on the VACCC home page, or contact the VACCC office directly at 312.433.6010 and press Menu Option 2 to speak with a Veteran Service Officer.