This is posted on the NARA Facilities, National Personnel Records Center (St. Louis, MO), web site in their frequently asked questions (FAQ) section. 9. I've heard that NPRC will be scanning my military records and destroying the original documents, and that I can have the paper file if I request it. Is that true? No, NPRC does not intend to destroy paper Official Military Personnel Files (OMPFs). We are expanding our use of information technology for request and record tracking, but the purpose of any electronic scanning will be to reduce the handling of fragile records during the reference process or to reduce the time necessary to locate an OMPF. It is our responsibility to preserve and protect the Official Military Personnel Files, as they are permanently valuable records documenting the essential evidence of military service for the veterans of our nation. We will send only photocopies of documents when we respond to requests.