Does the National Guard Get a DD214?
The United States National Guard is a reserve military component that is composed of units from all 50 states, as well as three territories. Members of the National Guard can be called to active duty in response to national emergencies, and they also have the option to voluntarily deploy to foreign countries.
One of the most common questions that members of the National Guard ask is: do they receive a DD214 form upon discharge? A DD214 form is a document that confirms a person’s military service and discharge status. It is required for many military-related benefits, such as education benefits, home loan guarantees, and veterans’ preference in hiring.
Contents
What is a DD214 Form?
A DD214 form, also known as a "Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty," is a document that the Department of Defense (DoD) provides to veterans upon their separation from military service. The form outlines the veteran’s military service, including dates of service, rank, and separation status. The DD214 form is usually issued in two parts:
- The first part (DD Form 214-1) is the initial discharge form, which is issued shortly after the service member is separated from active duty.
- The second part (DD Form 214-2) is the certified copy, which is issued upon request and may be used for official purposes, such as applying for veterans’ benefits.
Do National Guardsmen Get a DD214?
Yes, members of the National Guard can receive a DD214 form upon discharge or separation. However, the process of obtaining a DD214 may differ slightly for National Guard members compared to active duty personnel.
Important Note: National Guard members who serve on active duty for a period of at least 90 days must receive a DD214 form upon their separation. Those who do not meet the 90-day requirement may not receive a DD214, but they may still be eligible for veterans’ benefits.
How Do National Guardsmen Get a DD214?
National Guard members who are separating or discharging from service typically follow a similar process to obtain a DD214 as active duty personnel. Here are the steps:
- Separation from Service: National Guard members must file a request for separation from service with their unit’s personnel office or the State Adjutant General’s office.
- DD Form 214 Processing: The unit’s personnel office will review the service member’s record and complete the DD214 form, which will outline their military service, rank, and separation status.
- Certification and Issuance: The completed DD214 form is then sent to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for certification and authentication. The VA will review the form to ensure its accuracy and completeness.
- Delivery: Once certified, the DD214 form is returned to the National Guard member, usually via mail or electronic transmission.
How Long Does It Take to Get a DD214?
The time it takes to receive a DD214 form can vary depending on the complexity of the service member’s record, the volume of requests being processed, and the communication channels between the unit’s personnel office and the VA. In general, National Guard members can expect to receive their DD214 form within 30 to 60 days after submitting their request.
What are the Benefits of a DD214?
A DD214 form can provide numerous benefits to National Guard members, including:
- Education Benefits: The GI Bill, vocational rehabilitation, and other education benefits may require a DD214 form.
- Home Loan Guarantees: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) requires a DD214 form to process home loan guarantees.
- Veterans’ Preference in Hiring: A DD214 form can provide proof of military service and may be used to obtain veterans’ preference in hiring.
- Health Benefits: The VA requires a DD214 form to enroll in health insurance programs.
- Disability Compensation: A DD214 form can provide evidence of military service and may be used to support claims for disability compensation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, yes, members of the National Guard can receive a DD214 form upon discharge or separation from service. While the process may differ slightly from that of active duty personnel, National Guard members who have served on active duty for at least 90 days are entitled to a DD214 form. The DD214 form provides proof of military service and can be used to access various veterans’ benefits and services.
