Request Pertaining to Military Records | GSA
Summary: The SF 180 is the official government form used to request military personnel and medical records. It provides instructions for identifying records, determining eligibility for access, and locating the correct facility for submission.
Standard Form 180 (SF 180) is the primary instrument for requesting military records. The document includes detailed instructions on how to identify service members, the requirements for release of information (including Privacy Act and FOIA considerations), and the distinction between personnel records and archival records (those 62+ years old). It outlines the process for next-of-kin access, fee structures, and provides a comprehensive directory of record custodians based on branch of service and discharge dates. The form also includes the necessary sections for requesters to provide personal information, specify the documents needed, and authorize the release of records.
Document outline
1. Instruction and Information Sheet 2. General Information and Record Locations 3. Personnel Records and Medical Records (OMPF/STR) 4. Archival Records (62+ years old) 5. Privacy Act and FOIA Compliance 6. Section I: Information Needed to Locate Records 7. Section II: Information and/or Documents Requested 8. Section III: Return Address and Signature 9. Chart of Record Custodians by Branch and Status 10. Address List of Custodians and Self-Service Websites