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<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe DD Form 214<\/a> is a complete and thorough document that verifies a service member\u2019s proof of military service. This Certificate of Release or Discharge form is issued through the Department of Defense and is typically issued at the final out-processing appointment prior to retirement or separation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The DD 214 document contains information required to verify the veteran\u2019s time in service. Therefore, it is considered a vital piece of documentation since it is needed in order to obtain necessities such as benefits and retirement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The information found on the form can also be used for the veteran\u2019s future employment, membership in veteran organizations, or a proof of service for businesses offering military discounts. It gives good insight into the veteran and his\/her work history since it includes among other things, the service member\u2019s:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The form also provides a condition of discharge for the service member. For example, the veteran may be given a status of honorable, general, other than honorable or bad conduct which may be helpful to a potential employer or lender.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Additionally, the DD-214 can also be used to gain access to an abundance of other benefits including home loans, GI benefits, funeral\/cemetery accommodations and veteran affairs health care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This is why it is crucial for every veteran to secure their DD-214 form in a safe place so that they may gain quick access to it when the situation arises.<\/strong> If the form gets lost or misplaced, the service member or next of kin can request a copy through the National Personnel Records Center at the National Archives in St. Louis, Missouri<\/p>\n\n\n\n Difference Between Long vs. Short DD214 Discharge Forms<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n There are two versions of the DD214 issued by the government<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
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