Filling out Army Form 1059, also known as the "Active Duty, Reserve, and National Guard Service Member's Request for a Copy of a Military Record" form, can be a daunting task for many service members and veterans. This form is used to request copies of military records, including personnel records, medical records, and other documents related to military service. In this article, we will guide you through the process of filling out Army Form 1059, highlighting the necessary steps and requirements.
Understanding the Purpose of Army Form 1059
Before we dive into the details of filling out the form, it's essential to understand its purpose. Army Form 1059 is used to request copies of military records, which can be necessary for various reasons, such as:
- Verifying military service for employment or education purposes
- Obtaining medical records for medical treatment or benefits
- Requesting personnel records for administrative purposes
Gathering Required Information
To fill out Army Form 1059, you will need to gather the following information:
- Your name and social security number
- Your military service number (if applicable)
- Your dates of service (including start and end dates)
- The type of records you are requesting (e.g., personnel, medical, or other)
- The reason for your request (e.g., employment, education, or medical purposes)
Step 1: Fill Out Section 1 - Requester Information
The first section of the form requires you to provide your personal information, including your name, social security number, and military service number (if applicable). Make sure to fill out this section accurately, as it will be used to verify your identity and locate your military records.
Step 2: Fill Out Section 2 - Records Requested
In this section, you will need to specify the type of records you are requesting. Check the boxes that apply to your request, and provide any additional information required.
Step 3: Fill Out Section 3 - Reason for Request
In this section, you will need to provide the reason for your request. Check the box that applies to your situation, and provide any additional information required.
Step 4: Fill Out Section 4 - Certifications and Signatures
In this section, you will need to certify that you are the service member or veteran requesting the records, and provide your signature.
Step 5: Submit the Form
Once you have completed the form, you will need to submit it to the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) or the appropriate military records repository. You can submit the form by mail, fax, or email, depending on the repository's requirements.
Additional Tips and Resources
- Make sure to fill out the form accurately and completely to avoid delays in processing your request.
- If you are requesting records for a deceased service member or veteran, you will need to provide additional documentation, such as a death certificate and proof of your relationship to the service member.
- If you are having trouble filling out the form or need assistance, you can contact the NARA or the military records repository for guidance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Incomplete or inaccurate information
- Failure to provide required documentation
- Submitting the form to the wrong repository
Additional Resources
- National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) -
- Army Human Resources Command -
- Department of Veterans Affairs -
By following these steps and tips, you can ensure that your Army Form 1059 is filled out correctly and that you receive the military records you need. Remember to be patient and persistent, as the process of requesting military records can take time.
What is Army Form 1059 used for?
+Army Form 1059 is used to request copies of military records, including personnel records, medical records, and other documents related to military service.
How do I submit Army Form 1059?
+You can submit Army Form 1059 by mail, fax, or email, depending on the repository's requirements.
How long does it take to process Army Form 1059?
+The processing time for Army Form 1059 can vary depending on the repository and the type of records requested. It can take several weeks or months to receive a response.