How do I get my service treatment records?

Details

• The 12 July 1973 fire at the National Personnel Records Center destroyed roughly 16–18 million files, affecting Army personnel discharged November 1912–January 1960 and Air Force personnel discharged September 1947–January 1964 (surnames after Hubbard).
• Where federal records are lost through no fault of the claimant, VA's duty to assist is heightened and it must consider alternative evidence.
• Alternative sources: Surgeon General's Office index cards, morning reports, unit and pay records, buddy statements, and contemporaneous letters.
• National Guard records are frequently held at the state adjutant general's office rather than NPRC.
• Records requested by the veteran or next of kin for VA benefit purposes are generally provided at no cost.