Reps. Mace, Pappas Introduce Bill to Standardize Military Service Records for Guard, Reserves

“For too long, our National Guard and Reserves have been unable to easily apply for benefits they’ve earned because there was no standard form similar to the DD214 Proof of Service Requirements, the form used by Active Duty,” Rep. Mace said. “Having a standard form for everyone who serves in our military will make the transition to civilian life, employment, housing, access to VA benefits easier. Our service men and women all swear the same oath to protect the Constitution, and they all deserve the ability to access the benefits they have earned.”

According to Veterans Affairs (VA), “there is no one form used by the Reserves or National Guard that is similar to a DD Form 214 that meets Proof of Service Requirements.” For example, members of the Reserves receive a Discharge Certificate, but it doesn’t fully detail the service record. Members of the National Guard, meanwhile, receive a National Guard Bureau form that does detail characterization of service, but the other reserve components do not have a similar form, and most agencies are unfamiliar with it.

The Record of Military Service for Members of the Armed Forces Act will ensure all members of the Reserve Components – including the National Guard – receive a DD-214 form following their retirement or completion of service.