How to Find Military Service Number
Finding your military service number can be a crucial task, whether you are researching your family history, applying for veterans’ benefits, or simply curious about your service record. The military service number, also known as the Service Number or Social Security Number (SSN) in some cases, is a unique identifier used by the United States military to track personnel records. Here are some steps to help you find your military service number.
1. Check Personal Documents
The first place to look for your military service number is in your personal documents. If you served in the military, you may have received a copy of your discharge papers, commonly known as a DD Form 214. This document typically includes your service number prominently displayed. If you cannot find your DD Form 214, you may have other military records that contain your service number, such as your enlistment contract or your military ID card.
2. Contact the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA)
If you cannot locate your military service number in your personal documents, you can request a copy of your military records from the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). NARA holds the official military personnel records for all branches of the U.S. military. To request your records, you can use the eVetRecs system on the NARA website or fill out a Standard Form 180 (SF 180) and mail it to the appropriate NARA branch.
3. Visit a VA Office
Another option for obtaining your military service number is to visit a local VA office. The VA can help you obtain copies of your military records, including your DD Form 214, which will contain your service number. To find the nearest VA office, you can use the VA’s online locator tool or call the VA’s toll-free number at 1-800-827-1000.
4. Contact the Military Branch
If you served in a specific military branch, you can also contact that branch directly to request your service number. The following are the contact information for each branch:
– Army: Army Records Center, ATTN: AHRC-PDR, 9700 Page Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63132, Phone: 314-566-3100
– Navy: Navy Personnel Command, ATTN: PERS-8032, 5720 Integrity Dr., Millington, TN 38055-3134, Phone: 901-874-3737
– Air Force: Air Force Personnel Center, ATTN: AFPC/MP, 550 C St. W., Randolph AFB, TX 78150-4960, Phone: 937-255-4560
– Marine Corps: Marine Corps Service Records Center, ATTN: MCSR, 1800 Marine Corps Blvd., Quantico, VA 22134-5000, Phone: 703-784-2676
– Coast Guard: Coast Guard Personnel Service Center, ATTN: PERS-820, 2100 2nd St., Stop 9100, Algiers, LA 70115-5000, Phone: 504-589-3365
5. Use Online Resources
There are also several online resources that can help you find your military service number. Websites like Military OneSource, VAntage Point, and the Military Records website offer tools and information to assist veterans and their families in obtaining military records.
In conclusion, finding your military service number is a task that can be accomplished through various methods, including checking personal documents, contacting NARA, visiting a VA office, contacting the military branch, and using online resources. By following these steps, you can ensure that you have access to the information you need for your research or benefits applications.
