A DD214 form, or Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, is a document issued by the United States Department of Defense upon a military service members retirement, separation, or discharge from active duty. It is the capstone documentation of completed military service, representing the complete, verified record of a service members time in the military, including the character of service, which greatly affects veteran benefits and can have long-term reputational impact. The DD214 is commonly used by various government agencies, chief among them the Department of Veterans Affairs, to evaluate eligibility for veteran benefits, and it may be requested by employers to evaluate experience, skills, and character, as well as to verify eligibility for preferential hiring where applicable. The DD214 provides veterans with an accurate and complete summary of their active military service, including dates of service, any commendations or medals received, the reason for separation, and the type of discharge. Obtaining a copy of the DD214 is essential if you want access to many of the benefits and services available to you. The DD214 includes personally identifying information that could put you at risk for identity theft, so it is important to keep it safe and secure.