Do National Guard Get a DD214?
The DD Form 214, also known as the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, is a document issued by the United States Department of Defense to veterans who have served in the military. This document is crucial in proving military service and eligibility for veterans’ benefits. However, many people wonder: do National Guard members get a DD214?
What is a DD214?
Before we dive into the answer, let’s briefly explain what a DD214 is. The DD Form 214 is a document that summarizes a service member’s military service, including their:
- Military rank and branch
- Dates of service
- Types of training and assignments
- Awards and decorations
- Discharge status
- Reason for separation
This document is used to verify military service and is often required when applying for veterans’ benefits, such as education and housing benefits, or when applying for a job or security clearance.
Do National Guard Members Get a DD214?
YES, National Guard members are eligible to receive a DD214. However, the process of obtaining a DD214 is slightly different for National Guard members compared to active-duty military personnel.
National Guard DD214 vs. Active Duty DD214
Here are some key differences between the DD214 issued to National Guard members and active-duty military personnel:
- Duration of Service: National Guard members typically serve part-time, with some active duty periods. Active-duty military personnel, on the other hand, serve full-time.
- Types of Training: National Guard members may participate in annual training (2 weeks) and may have less formalized training than active-duty military personnel.
- Discharge Status: National Guard members are usually discharged with an Honorable Discharge, whereas active-duty military personnel may be discharged with a Honorable, General, or Other Than Honorable discharge.
- Reason for Separation: National Guard members may be separated due to various reasons, including reaching the end of their enlistment term, injury or illness, or personal reasons. Active-duty military personnel may be separated for similar reasons, but may also be separated due to disciplinary actions or misconduct.
How to Get a DD214 as a National Guard Member
To obtain a DD214 as a National Guard member, you will need to follow these steps:
- Verify Your Eligibility: Check with your unit commander or personnel officer to confirm that you are eligible for a DD214.
- Submit a Request: Submit a request for a DD214 to your state’s Adjutant General or National Guard personnel office.
- Provide Required Documents: Provide proof of service, such as your Military Personnel File (MPF) or a copy of your enlistment contract.
- Wait for Processing: Allow 6-8 weeks for processing, during which time your request will be reviewed and the DD214 will be prepared.
- Receive Your DD214: Once processed, your DD214 will be mailed to you.
Table: Steps to Obtain a DD214 as a National Guard Member
| Step | Description | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Verify Eligibility | Confirm with unit commander or personnel officer |
| 2 | Submit Request | Request to state’s Adjutant General or National Guard personnel office |
| 3 | Provide Required Documents | Proof of service, MPF, or enlistment contract |
| 4 | Wait for Processing | 6-8 weeks for review and preparation |
| 5 | Receive DD214 | Mailed to you once processed |
Conclusion
In conclusion, National Guard members are eligible to receive a DD214, which is a crucial document in verifying military service and eligibility for veterans’ benefits. The process of obtaining a DD214 as a National Guard member is slightly different from that of active-duty military personnel, but the steps remain largely the same. By following the steps outlined above, National Guard members can obtain their DD214 and take advantage of the benefits and recognition that come with their military service.
