There’s a short list of important documents that everyone needs to keep track of – a driver’s license and Social Security card are two of the big ones that nobody wants to lose. But U.S. military veterans have a form that they have to produce to gain access to benefits and programs – it’s called a DD-214, for short.
The official term is Discharge from Active Duty or Certificate of Release Form, issued by the U.S. Dept. of Defense upon a service member’s retirement, separation or discharge from active duty. It’s the document needed by local, state and federal service providers to assist veterans and their families.
Veterans in Granville County who need assistance obtaining a copy of their DD-214 are encouraged to visit the Veterans Services Office located at 141 Williamsboro St. in Oxford. Weekly office hours are also held on Wednesdays at Creedmoor City Hall (111 Masonic St., Creedmoor) from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Currently, the Oxford office is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
“When speaking with Veterans at our office, we often find that they do not have a copy of their DD-214,” said Interim Veterans Services Officer A.J. Spiess. “Whether they are trying to sign up for medical care from the VA, file a claim for burial honors, or apply for VA home mortgage loans, you will need a copy of your DD-214. I would encourage all veterans to keep a copy of their DD-214 securely stored and somewhere it be accessed easily. It is also important to make sure your spouse or another close family member knows how to find a copy of your DD-214.”
The Granville County Veterans Services Office provides veterans and their families assistance with educational benefits, grave markers, license plates, disability benefits, tax benefits, wildlife licenses and more. For more information about the Granville County Veterans Services Office, call 919.693.1484 or visit https://www.granvillecounty.org/residents/veterans-services/
