How to Get Army National Guard Records

A Guide to Requesting Army National Guard Records

Requesting military records, particularly from the Army National Guard, can be a complex process. Unlike active-duty records, National Guard records are often maintained at both the state and federal levels. This guide breaks down the process to help you navigate it successfully.

How to Request Army National Guard Records?

The process for requesting Army National Guard records depends on a few factors, primarily the service member's current status (active or separated) and the date of their service.

• For separated service members and veterans: The primary repository for discharged military personnel records is the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) in St. Louis, which is part of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). You can request records from the NPRC by using Standard Form 180 (SF-180), which can be submitted by mail, fax, or through their online system, eVetRecs.

• For service members still in the National Guard: Their records are maintained at their state's National Guard headquarters. You will need to contact the specific state where the service member served to obtain their records. Many state National Guard websites have specific points of contact or forms for records requests.

• For records of service after 2002: The U.S. Army Human Resources Command (HRC) may also hold records, and service members can often access their files through the Interactive Personnel Electronic Records Management System (iPERMS) using their Common Access Card (CAC) or DS Logon.

When making a request, be sure to include as much information as possible, such as:

• The veteran's full name as used in service

• Social Security Number or service number

• Dates of service

• Branch of service

• Date and place of birth

What Documents Are Included in National Guard Records?

A military service record, or Official Military Personnel File (OMPF), typically contains a comprehensive set of documents detailing a service member's career. Some of the most common documents you may find include:

• DD Form 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty): This is the most critical document for most veterans, as it verifies service for benefits, retirement, and employment.

• NGB Forms (NGB 22, NGB 23): These are National Guard Bureau forms that document a member's service.

• Enlistment/Appointment Documents: Paperwork related to joining the service.

• Performance Reports: Official evaluations of the service member's performance.

• Awards and Decorations: A list of all medals, citations, and awards received.

• Separation and Discharge Information: Details about the type of separation and character of service.

• Medical and Health Records: These are often included in the OMPF, though they may be maintained separately.

It's important to note that records do not typically contain detailed information about a veteran's participation in specific battles or engagements.

How Long Does it Take to Receive National Guard Records?

The time it takes to receive records can vary significantly. Requests from the NPRC can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the volume of requests they are handling.

• Online Requests (eVetRecs): Using this system is often the fastest method for submitting a request.

• Mail and Fax: These methods can take longer to process due to the volume of correspondence.

• Emergency Requests: The NPRC has a process for emergency requests (e.g., for funerals or urgent medical needs). You should clearly state the emergency in your request and fax it to their designated emergency fax number.

Are There Fees to Obtain Military Records?

For veterans, their next-of-kin, or authorized representatives, there is generally no charge for basic military personnel and health record information from federal (non-archival) records.

However, fees may be charged in specific situations:

• Archival Records: Records that are more than 62 years old are considered "archival" and are open to the public. The NPRC may charge a flat fee for a complete photocopy of the Official Military Personnel File (OMPF). The fee is typically a flat rate of $70 for OMPFs of 6 pages or more.

• Excessive Requests: If a request is complex and requires extensive searching, processing, and photocopying, a fee may be charged to cover the costs. You will be notified in advance if a fee applies.

5. Can I Access Someone Else’s Army National Guard Records?

Access to a service member's records is restricted due to privacy laws.

• For records of a living veteran: You will need written consent from the veteran to access their full records. Without consent, you can only obtain limited information that is considered public under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

• For records of a deceased veteran: The next-of-kin (un-remarried spouse, father, mother, son, daughter, brother, or sister) can request the full records. They must provide proof of the veteran's death, such as a copy of the death certificate, a letter from a funeral home, or a published obituary.

• For records of a veteran separated more than 62 years ago: The records are considered "archival" and are open to the general public. Anyone can request them for a fee.