Pre-World War I military records are stored at the National Archives Building in Washington, DC.If you are a veteran or the next of kin of a deceased veteran you can order copies of military records online.To reach an immediate family member serving on active duty in the military, contact the American Red Cross Emergency Communications Center.The Red Cross will get information from you and relay it to the service member.All personnel who served in Vietnam are eligible to wear the RVN Gallantry Cross unit citation. Now get out there and tell your fellow Vets you know something they don’t. A Report of Separation is generally issued when a service member performs active duty or at least 90 consecutive days of active duty training.Why does the Active Component have the DD214 and the National Guard have the NGB Form 22, but the Army Reserve does not have a form showing service after they got out of the guard.

The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) maintains a web site that might help you locate a veteran or service member.

They were outlawed in the late 1970's or early 1980's.

When Nam was winding down and Marine units were being deployed back home the Corps offered many early out programs. I had all my junior Marines fall for what sounded like a good deal to them.

Before January 1, 1950, several similar 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.

To get copies of DD Form 214, Discharge Papers or Separation Documents: This was a number that was placed on your DD-214 form that described your service and reason for discharge.