Army Form 1059: Guide To Military Record Requests

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The process of obtaining military records can be complex and time-consuming, especially for those who are not familiar with the procedures. One crucial document that plays a significant role in this process is Army Form 1059, also known as the "Request for Verification of Military Records." In this article, we will delve into the details of Army Form 1059, its purpose, and provide a comprehensive guide on how to request military records.

What is Army Form 1059?

Army Form 1059 is a standardized document used by the United States Army to verify the military service of veterans and their families. The form is typically used to request military records, such as the DD Form 214, which is a discharge document that contains essential information about a veteran's military service. Army Form 1059 is also used to obtain other types of military records, including personnel records, medical records, and performance evaluations.

Purpose of Army Form 1059

The primary purpose of Army Form 1059 is to provide a standardized method for requesting military records. The form ensures that all necessary information is provided to facilitate the processing of record requests. By using Army Form 1059, individuals can ensure that their requests are handled efficiently and accurately.

Who Can Request Military Records?

Not everyone is eligible to request military records. The following individuals can request military records:

• Veterans themselves
• Family members of veterans, including spouses, children, and parents
• Authorized representatives of veterans, such as attorneys or agents
• Government agencies, such as the Department of Veterans Affairs

How to Complete Army Form 1059

Completing Army Form 1059 requires careful attention to detail. The following steps will guide you through the process:

1. Download the form: You can download Army Form 1059 from the National Archives website or obtain a copy from a local VA office.
2. Fill out the form: Complete the form by providing all required information, including the veteran's name, social security number, dates of service, and type of records requested.
3. Sign the form: The form must be signed by the veteran or their authorized representative.
4. Submit the form: Submit the completed form to the National Archives or the relevant military branch.

Required Information

To complete Army Form 1059, you will need to provide the following information:

• Veteran's name
• Social security number
• Dates of service
• Type of records requested
• Reason for request
• Signature of veteran or authorized representative

Where to Submit Army Form 1059

Once you have completed Army Form 1059, you can submit it to the following locations:

• National Archives: 8601 Adelphi Road, College Park, MD 20740-6001
• National Personnel Records Center: 9700 Page Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63132-5100
• Local VA office: You can also submit the form to a local VA office for assistance.

Timeline for Processing Requests

The processing time for military record requests can vary depending on the type of records requested and the workload of the National Archives. Generally, requests are processed within 10-30 days. However, some requests may take longer, especially if the records are archived or require additional research.

Types of Military Records

There are several types of military records that can be requested using Army Form 1059, including:

• DD Form 214: Discharge document
• Personnel records: Performance evaluations, awards, and decorations
• Medical records: Medical treatment records and medical evaluation boards
• Unit records: Unit histories and command chronologies

Conclusion

Obtaining military records can be a complex process, but using Army Form 1059 can simplify the task. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your request is processed efficiently and accurately. Remember to provide all required information and submit the form to the correct location. If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact the National Archives or a local VA office for assistance.

We encourage you to share your experiences or ask questions about requesting military records in the comments section below.