Write a letter to request records: If you are not able to obtain form SF-180, you may still submit a request for military records. Please see Military Records Requests: Standard Form SF-180 for details on what information is required in your letter.
Visit the National Archives in person: You may wish to visit the National Archives and Records Administration's National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) or the new Archival Research Room in St. Louis, MO because you have a strong interest in reviewing your own files. To do so, you should schedule an appointment well in advance so that we can prepare for your visit. Please see Services for Visitors and Researchers for further details.
Contact your State or County: Some veterans may be able to obtain copies of certain military records from their state, county or municipality. Contact your state or county veterans agency for more information.
Hire an independent researcher: While the National Archives usually provides copies of service records as a free service, you may find that you require more extensive research assistance, and may want to hire an independent researcher. You can consult our list of independent researchers for additional information.
NOTE: Some companies advertise "DD Form 214 research services" and will charge a fee for obtaining copies. This is provided as a free service to veterans and next-of-kin by the National Archives.
Alternate Record Sources: If your records were damaged or destroyed, such as in the 1973 fire, the NPRC (MPR) may use alternate sources to reconstruct service data and document your military service. See Alternate Record Sources for more information on the types of records used.