DD214 is actually a Department of Defense Form Entitled: Armed Forces of the United State Report of Transfer or Discharge. Don't know when the form was first used. But it is issued each time an individual is discharged from the military and each time the individual reenlisted. They discharge the individual and then reenlist them immediately. Actually he never leaves the military. There is a lot of important information on the DD214 Individual full name. Service number Social Security Number Department of the Military, ie, Army, Navy, Air Force Grade or Rank Date of Rank If a US citizen Place of Birth Date of Birth Selective Service Information: 1) selective service number; 2) selective local board location; 3) Date inducted Transfer or Discharge Information: 1. Type of Transfer or Discharge and where it was effected. 2. Reason and authority; effective date 3. Last dusty assignment and major command; type of certificate issued 4. District, area command; reenlistment code Service Data 1. Terminal date; Current active service other than by induction; Term of service (years); Date of entry 2. Prior Regular enlistment; grade at time of entry; Place of entry 3. Home of record at the time of entry; specialty number and title; related civil occupation; statement of service 4. Decorations, medals, badges and other citations 5. Education and training completed (military) Other information can be days of accrued leave, any allotments in force, VA claim number, Servicemen's Group Life Insurance and amount Remarks section can show: blood type, and civilian education, etc. Then there is the authentication section where the office responsible for the DD 214 signs and the service member also. This is a very important document for researchers. Also, if you know that the individual was a member of the VFW they maintain a copy of the DD214 also. Not sure if the American Legion does or not. But know for sure the VFW does, but do not know when they started the practice or how easily a copy maybe obtained or even if they will give you a copy because of privacy considerations. Hope this helps answer some questions concerning the DD214 Steve Scott