Was there a fire destroying military records?

Was there a fire destroying military records?

Louis, July 12, 1973: A Disaster with Long-Lasting Repercussions. In 1973 a devastating fire in the National Personnel Records Center destroyed about 17 million military personnel files.

How do I get a deceased relative’s military records?

If you are a veteran or next-of-kin of a deceased veteran, you may now use vetrecs.archives.gov to order a copy of your military records. For all others, your request is best made using a Standard Form 180. It includes complete instructions for preparing and submitting requests.

How do I find old military records?

You can request your military records in any of these ways:

1. Mail or fax a Request Pertaining to Military Records (Standard Form SF 180) to the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC).
2. Write a letter to the NPRC.
3. Visit the NPRC in person.
4. Contact your state or county Veterans agency.
5. Hire an independent researcher.

How long are military records kept?

In general, an individual’s military records are maintained by each branch of the military for around 5-10 years after the service member separates, after which records are sent to the National Archives where they are permanently maintained. You can request copies of records directly from the National Archives.

How do I find old military records for free?

You can find veterans’ military service records from World War I to the present from the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC). The NPRC houses many types of records, including Official Military Personnel Files (OMPF).

Does the VA keep medical records?

Veterans must continue to retain these paper records. With some limited exceptions, digital health records from care received from a Department of Defense (DOD) or VA provider will be transferred to the new EHR and can be accessed by VA providers.

Where was the National Archives fire in 1973?

The National Personnel Records Center fire of 1973, also referred to as the 1973 National Archives fire, was a fire that occurred at the Military Personnel Records Center (MPRC – part of the National Personnel Records Center) in Overland, Missouri, a suburb of St.

How old was the NPRC Records Fire of 1973?

The NPRC records fire of 1973 destroyed up to 18 million WWI, WWII, and Korean War Veterans’ personnel records. The NPRC records fire is 42-year old news, yet even today it continues to impact the lives of our most sacred Veterans and their dependents and survivors.

How many veteran records were destroyed in the 1973 fire?

The fire destroyed 80 percent of the records held for Veterans who were discharged from the Army between November 1, 1912 and January 1, 1960. Exceptions : Records for retirees and reservists who were alive on July 12, 1973, were not involved in the fire.

Where was the National personnel records center fire?

Fire underway, 1973, Aerial View of MILPERCEN, Date July 12, 1973 ( 1973-07-12) Venue National Personnel Records Center Location Overland, Missouri, United States Coordinates 38°41′06″N 90°22′14″W  /  38.68513°N 9