Does National Guard Get DD Form 214?
The question of whether the National Guard receives a DD Form 214, also known as a discharge document, is a common one among National Guard members and veterans. The answer is a resounding "yes," but there are some nuances and differences to consider.
What is a DD Form 214?
A DD Form 214, also known as a Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, is a document issued by the military to honorably discharged service members. It is a vital document that confirms the individual’s military service and provides important information such as:
- Military occupation and specialty
- Date of separation
- Length of service
- Separation authority
- Disposition of military awards and decorations
- Veteran status
National Guard Discharge Documents
While National Guard members do not serve full-time active duty, they are still entitled to a discharge document upon completing their service. However, there are some key differences between National Guard discharge documents and those issued to active duty service members:
- DD Form 256: National Guard members typically receive a DD Form 256, which is a Certificate of Discharge or Release from the National Guard. This document serves as proof of service and can be used to claim veteran benefits.
- Honorable Discharge: National Guard members who complete their service are entitled to an honorable discharge, which is recognized by the federal government.
When Do National Guard Members Receive a DD Form 214?
National Guard members may receive a DD Form 214 in the following circumstances:
- Completion of Military Service: National Guard members who complete their initial eight-year enlistment period or 20 years of total active federal service, whichever comes first, are eligible for a DD Form 214.
- Separation from Service: National Guard members who are separated from service for reasons other than disciplinary action or medical reasons may be eligible for a DD Form 214.
- Voluntary Separation: National Guard members who choose to separate from service voluntarily may also be eligible for a DD Form 214.
Key Points to Note
- Discharge Status: National Guard members who receive a DD Form 214 will have a discharge status of "Honorable" or "General (Under Honorable Conditions)".
- Veteran Benefits: National Guard members who have served at least 90 days of active duty may be eligible for federal veterans’ benefits, including education and home loan benefits.
- State Benefits: National Guard members may also be eligible for state-specific benefits, such as property tax exemptions and state-sponsored education benefits.
Benefits of a DD Form 214
Having a DD Form 214 can provide National Guard members with numerous benefits, including:
- Veteran Status: A DD Form 214 confirms an individual’s veteran status, which can be important for claiming benefits and privileges.
- Job Preferences: Many employers prefer to hire veterans, and a DD Form 214 can be a valuable addition to a resume.
- Education Benefits: A DD Form 214 can be used to claim education benefits, such as the GI Bill.
- Home Loan Benefits: National Guard members who have a DD Form 214 may be eligible for home loan benefits, such as reduced interest rates and lower down payments.
Conclusion
In conclusion, National Guard members do receive a DD Form 214, which serves as proof of service and provides important information about their military service. While there are some differences between National Guard discharge documents and those issued to active duty service members, a DD Form 214 is an essential document for National Guard members who have completed their service. By understanding the requirements for receiving a DD Form 214 and the benefits that come with it, National Guard members can take advantage of the many opportunities and privileges available to them as veterans.
Table: Comparison of DD Form 214 and DD Form 256
| DD Form 214 | DD Form 256 | |
|---|---|---|
| Issued by | Department of Defense | National Guard Bureau |
| Purpose | Confirms honorable discharge and provides information about military service | Confirms discharge and provides information about National Guard service |
| Discharge Status | Honorable or General (Under Honorable Conditions) | Honorable or General (Under Honorable Conditions) |
| Eligibility | Completed 20 years of active federal service or 8 years of National Guard service | Completed National Guard service |
Bullets List: Benefits of a DD Form 214
• Confirms veteran status
• Provides important information about military service
• Can be used to claim education benefits
• Can be used to claim home loan benefits
• Can be used to claim job preferences
• Can be used to claim other federal benefits
