Help Center

The Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) program prepares high school students for leadership roles while making them aware of their rights, responsibilities and privileges as American citizens. It is a stimulus for promoting graduation from high school, and it provides instruction and rewarding opportunities that will benefit the student, community and Nation. JROTC teaches young men and women the kind of self-discipline, self-confidence, and leadership skills that can help them successfully meet the challenges of adulthood. This program is conducted at accredited secondary schools throughout the Nation, by instructors who are retired Navy, Army, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard officers and enlisted personnel.

Information about each military service's JROTC program is found on their respective websites. Additional questions should be directed to the contact addresses below:

U.S. Army JROTC Program Headquarters
U.S. Army Cadet Command
ATTN: ATCC-JR-IM (Instr Mgt)
394 2nd Dragoons Road, Bldg 6573
Fort Monroe, VA 23651-5000
Phone: 800-347-6641
http://www.usarmyjrotc.com/

U.S. Marine Corps
Commanding General
TECOM C46JR
1019 Elliot Road
Quantico, VA 22134-5001
Phone: 703-784-3706
https://www.mcjrotc.marines.mil/

Naval Service Training Command
NJROTC Program
250 Dallas Street, Suite. A
Pensacola, FL 32508-5268
Phone: 877-253-7122 (option 1)
https://www.netc.navy.mil/NSTC/NJROTC/

Headquarters, Air Force Junior ROTC
ATTN: AETC HOLM CENTER/JROTC
60 West Maxwell Boulevard.
Maxwell AFB, AL 36112-6106
Phone: 334-953-7513 or 7743
https://www.airuniversity.af.edu/Holm-Center/AFJROTC/

We greatly appreciate your desire to join the Armed Forces. Our entry rules are purposely tough because in the field, the lives of your fellow service members may well depend on your physical and mental capabilities to perform as part of the unit. The Military services each set and review their standards for enlistment based upon their particular mission.

To appeal a decision made by a military service's recruiting command, you must submit your request in writing to the appropriate military service. Addresses for the military services are available on the DOD website at https://www.defense.gov/Contact/Mailing-Addresses/.

There are also areas where your situation may not be an issue, such as the U.S. civil service. For information on civilian job opportunities, please visit the USA Jobs website.

The Selective service System is an independent agency within the Executive Branch of the U.S. Federal Government. Selective service is not part of the Department of Defense.

Almost all male U.S. citizens and male immigrants, who are 18 through 25, are required to register with Selective Service.

It’s important to know that even though he is registered, a man will not automatically be inducted into the military. In a crisis requiring a draft, men would be called in a sequence determined by random lottery number and year of birth. Then, they would be examined for mental, physical, and moral fitness by the military before being deferred or exempted from military service or inducted into the Armed Forces.

The U.S. Selective Service website has more information, including how to register and who must register.

Information about each military service academy is found on their respective websites. Additional questions should be directed to the contact addresses below:

United States Military Academy
ATTN: Public Affairs Office
Taylor Hall, Building 600
West Point, NY 10996-1788
Telephone: 845-938-4011
Website: http://www.usma.edu/

United States Naval Academy *
ATTN: Public Affairs Officer
121 Blake Road
Annapolis, MD 21402-5000
Telephone: 410-293-1000
Website: http://www.usna.edu/
* Graduates serve in the U.S. Navy or the U.S. Marine Corps

United States Air Force Academy
ATTN: Public Affairs Officer
2304 Cadet Drive, Suite 320
U.S. Air Force Academy, CO 80840-5016
Telephone: 800-433-9266
Website: http://www.usafa.af.mil

United States Coast Guard Academy **
ATTN: Public Affairs Officer
15 Mohegan Avenue
New London, CT 06320-4195
Telephone: 860-444-8270
Website: https://www.uscga.edu/
** The U.S. Coast Guard is under the jurisdiction of the Department of Homeland Security; however, reports directly to the Department of the Navy only in wartime; in peacetime, it falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Homeland Security.

United States Merchant Marine Academy ***
ATTN: Public Affairs Officer
300 Steamboat Road
Kings Point, NY 11024
Telephone: 516-726-5800
Website: http://www.usmma.edu/
*** The Merchant Marine Academy has a close relationship with the U.S. Armed Forces, as noted on its website, but is not part of the Department of Defense.

The Department of Homeland Security U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) administers the Nation’s lawful immigration system, safeguarding its integrity and promise by efficiently and fairly adjudicating requests for immigration benefits while protecting Americans, securing the homeland, and honoring our values.

The USCIS website contains helpful information about laws, policies, and procedures for non-citizen members of the military and veteran community seeking to become naturalized United States citizens. Link: https://www.uscis.gov/military/military

USCIS also operates a helpline toll-free military helpline, 877-CIS-4MIL (877-247-4645, TTY 800-877-8339) and e-mail address at militaryinfo@uscis.dhs.gov exclusively for current members of the military and their families, as well as veterans. 

Link: https://www.uscis.gov/military/military-help-line

The Department of Defense employs 950,000 civilians, many serving in critical positions worldwide. There are multitudes of opportunities requiring a diverse range of skills. If a competitive salary, great benefits, unsurpassed training, and the pride of defending our Nation interests you, then your future is with DOD.

As a civilian in DOD, you play an important role in the defense of our Nation and in supporting our Armed Forces. The Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and other DOD Agencies have civilian positions in nearly 675 occupations.

Link:  https://www.DODciviliancareers.com/

As a student or recent graduate, you may be able to begin your career in the Federal Government through internships, the Recent Graduates Program, Presidential Management Fellows Program, with the assistance of DOD scholarship programs:

Link: https://www.DODciviliancareers.com/civiliancareers/studentsrecentgraduates

Each branch of the U.S. Armed Forces is responsible for its own recruiting. You can learn more about each branch's recruiting policies, and contact a recruiter directly, at the following websites:

Army: https://www.goarmy.com

National Guard: https://www.nationalguard.com/

Marines: https://www.marines.com/become-a-marine/process-to-join.html

Navy: https://www.navy.com/careers

Air Force and Space Force: https://www.airforce.com/how-to-join

Coast Guard: https://www.uscg.mil/Join/

Most answers to questions about a military service branch can be found by clicking one of the links below. In addition, each service also offers a “Contact Us” page which can be accessed via the Frequently Asked Questions, or FAQ page.

Army: https://www.army.mil/faq/

Army National Guard: https://www.nationalguard.com/guard-faqs

Navy: https://www.navy.mil/Resources/Frequently-Asked-Questions/

Air Force: https://www.af.mil/Questions.aspx

Space Force: https://www.spaceforce.mil/About-Us/FAQs/

Air National Guard: https://www.ang.af.mil/Contact/Questions.aspx

Marine Corps: https://www.marines.mil/FAQ/

Coast Guard: https://www.gocoastguard.com/faq

Service members and their families have proven their strength in weathering unique issues, such as frequent moves, deployments and separations from loved ones. Because everyone struggles now and then, the Department of Defense provides confidential non-medical counseling, specialty consultations and other forms of free confidential help to service members, immediate family members and in some cases, Department of Defense civilians. Confidential help is available in person, via secure video, over the phone and online. Learn more at Military OneSource:

Link: https://www.militaryonesource.mil/confidential-help/non-medical-counseling/military-onesource/military-onesource-confidential-help-eligibility/

Military Crisis Line

If you have an immediate need or are currently in crisis, call the Military Crisis Line for support at 1-800-273-8255 (press 1). The MCL is a toll-free, confidential resource that connects service members in crisis, their families and friends with qualified, caring responders.

Veterans Crisis Line

If you are a military veteran in crisis or are concerned about a veteran who is, The Department of Veterans Affairs also offers confidential free support from caring, qualified responders, many of whom are veterans themselves.

Link:  https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/

Phone:  1-800-273-8255 (Press 1)

Text:  838255

National Suicide Prevention Hotline

Call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or TTY: 1-800-799-4889. This hotline is a 24-hour, toll-free suicide prevention service available to anyone in a suicidal crisis. You will be routed to the closest possible crisis center in your area. Your call is free and confidential. 

Link: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/

Psychological Health Center of Excellence

Get the information you need with the Real Warriors Live Chat. A trained health resource consultant is ready to talk, listen and provide the guidance and resources you are looking for. Access our privacy policies and disclaimers to see our commitment to your confidentiality.

Call: 1-800-273-8255 

This link takes you directly to the Real Warriors Live Chat line: https://chat.magellanhealth.com/Cutesoft_Client/CuteChat/DCOE_SupportClient.aspx###

The Department of Defense issues a common access card, or CAC, ''smart'' ID card to active-duty military personnel, Selected Reserve, DOD civilian employees, and eligible contractor personnel. A uniformed service ID card, or USID, is issued to military family members and military retirees to access service benefits and privileges. Military personnel, retirees, and their family members should notify their security office IMMEDIATELY if an ID card is lost, stolen, or misplaced.

Information about obtaining and managing your CAC or USIC card is found on the DOD common access card website.

Additional information and assistance is available at these DOD websites:

Link: https://www.dmdc.osd.mil/self_service/rapids/

Link: https://milconnect.dmdc.osd.mil/milconnect/public/faq/Documentation-ID_Cards

The Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System, or DEERS, database contains information for each uniformed service member (active duty, retired, or a member of a reserve component), U.S.-sponsored foreign military, DOD and uniformed services civilians, other personnel as directed by the DOD (including the patient population serviced through the Military Health Services System), and their eligible family members. DEERS registration is required for TRICARE eligibility and enrollment.

You are responsible for keeping your information current on your record. Active Duty and retired service members are automatically registered in DEERS, but they must take action to register their family members and ensure they are correctly entered into the database. Once registered in DEERS it is important to keep your DEERS records updated when personal eligibility information changes. This includes addresses and family status (marriage, divorce, birth, adoption, etc.). Mistakes in the DEERS database can cause problems with TRICARE claims, so it is critical to maintain your DEERS information. Retail network pharmacies check TRICARE eligibility through DEERS. Prescriptions will be filled only for beneficiaries who are listed as eligible in DEERS.

For more information on updating and correcting your information within DEERS please click on the link below.

Link: https://milconnect.dmdc.osd.mil/milconnect/public/faq/DEERS-Updating_and_Correcting_DEERS_Data

Veterans who believe the characterization of their discharge from military service was unjust, erroneous, or warrants an upgrade are encouraged to apply for a discharge upgrade or correction.

All branches of the military consider you to have a strong case for a discharge upgrade if you can show your discharge was connected to any of these categories:

• Mental health conditions, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Sexual assault or harassment during military service
• Sexual orientation (including discharges under the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy)

The Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs jointly operate an online tool to facilitate your application process.  By answering a series of questions, you will receive customized instructions on how to apply, and to which board to apply, for a discharge upgrade or correction.

Link:  https://www.va.gov/discharge-upgrade-instructions/

If you do not agree with a Service Board for Correction of Military/Naval Records (BCM/NR) decision, and have relevant evidence that was not considered with the previous application, you may submit a new DD Form 149 to your respective BCM/NR and apply for reconsideration of your case.

Service members with a separation date on or after December 20, 2019, who have exhausted all available administrative remedies for a discharge or dismissal characterization upgrade by their Service BCM/NR, may be eligible to apply to the DoD Discharge Appeal Review Board. To learn more about the DARB and how to apply for review, visit the DARB page located on the Air Force Review Board Agency website.

If you believe an error or injustice exists in your military record, you may complete and submit a DD Form 149, Application for Correction of Military Record, along with sufficient evidence of the probable material error or justice, to your Service Board for Correction of Military/Naval Records (BCM/NR).  A few examples of records that may be corrected include:  administrative information, pay and allowances, decorations and awards, performance evaluations and derogatory information, disabilities, promotions and rank, and separation and discharges*. 

*NOTE: Service members who are seeking a discharge upgrade and have been separated for less than 15 years, must first submit the DD Form 293, Application for the Review of Discharge from the Armed Forces of the Unites States, to their respective Service Discharge Review Board.

When applying to your respective BCM/NR, download and use the most current version of the DD Form 149 located on the Official DoD Website for DoD  Forms: 
https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/forms/dd/dd0149.pdf.  Both the Army and Air Force offer online application portals and the Navy accepts applications via email. These methods are preferred and will streamline your application process and allow for timelier responses.  You may also mail your completed application and any supporting evidence to the appropriate address on page 3 of the DD Form 149 but be sure to first check the websites below to find the most up-to-date instructions and information for your Service BCM/NR. 

Air Force Review Boards Agency (includes Space Force applicants)
Website: https://afrba-portal.cce.af.mil/#

Army Review Boards Agency
Website: http://arba.army.pentagon.mil/

Board for Correction of Naval Records (includes Marine Corps applicants)
Website: https://www.secnav.navy.mil/mra/bcnr/Pages/default.aspx

DHS Office of the General Counsel Board for Correction of Military Records
Website: https://www.uscg.mil/Resources/Legal/BCMR/

If you do not agree with a Service BCM/NR decision and have relevant evidence that was not considered with the previous application, you may submit a new DD Form 149 to apply for reconsideration of your case.

For discharge upgrade requests denied by your Service BCM/NR, you may also be eligible to apply to the DoD Discharge Appeal Review Board

The U.S. Armed Forces maintain an Official Military Personnel File, or OMPF, for every veteran and service member. If you are a veteran or a member of the Army, Navy, Marines, or Air Force and are serving as active duty, reserve, or guard, or if you are retired, you can use the Defense Personnel Records Information Retrieval System page on the milConnect website to request and receive scanned copies of documents in your OMPF.

In some cases, OMPF records are not yet scanned into the DPRIS system on milConnect. To determine whether your documents are available online, what to do if they are not, and for many more details about your OMPF documents, visit the DPRIS section of the milConnect frequently asked questions page.

For OMPF records not available in milConnect, military veteran health records, or for records requests from a veteran's next of kin or a member of the public, please visit the National Archives - National Personnel Record Center, Military Personnel Records for assistance:

Link:  https://www.archives.gov/personnel-records-center/military-personnel
Link:  https://www.archives.gov/personnel-records-center/other-medical-records

The DOD and other agencies are committed to connecting survivors with resources to relieve financial stress and provide assistance with decision-making around the death of a service member. Military OneSource contains a list of helpful resources.

The Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts initiative is a workforce development program. Its goal is to find an effective way to help military spouses get the training and education they need to have portable careers. Accounts for education and training leading to a credential in a portable field are available for eligible military spouses at https://mycaa.militaryonesource.mil/mycaa.

Thank you for your desire to support the well-being of our service members. The Department of Defense does not operate a program for members of the general public to send care packages and holiday mail to deployed service members. However, those wishing to send materials to service members can do so by contacting any of the various non-DOD military service organizations who still do this work. One example is the American Red Cross, which has a Holiday for Heroes program run by their local state chapters.

Family members, extended family members and friends who want to send care items to their military member should follow these tips provided by Military OneSource.

A child born abroad to a U.S. citizen parent or parents may acquire U.S. citizenship at birth if certain statutory requirements are met. In such a case, the Department of State will issue a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, also called a Form FS-240, in the child's name. 

Please visit the Department of State's website for more information, including how the CRBA may be replaced or amended if necessary. 

Requests for Service member contact information should be sent to the respective military branch of the individual whose information is being sought. However, in most cases, military regulations and the Privacy Act of 1974 do not permit the military departments to provide home addresses or telephone numbers of service personnel. Moreover, regulations do not permit the public dissemination of listings of names and addresses of service personnel.

In cases of family emergency:
The American Red Cross assists DOD with relaying family member communications to military members and coordinating with the military commands for service members to be granted emergency leave as is necessary. To speak to a Red Cross Emergency Communications Specialist call: 1-877-272-7337. More information is found on the American Red Cross website at https://www.redcross.org/get-help/military-families/emergency-communication.html.

To locate Americans abroad in event of an emergency, please contact the Department of State:

• From the U.S. & Canada:  1-888-407-4747 (Option: 0)
• From Overseas: +1 202-501-4444
• https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/emergencies.html

For detailed information on DOD health care services and benefits for military members, retirees and their families who are beneficiaries of the Military Health System, please visit these DOD websites:

• Military Health System:  https://health.mil/
• TRICARE:  https://www.tricare.mil/

There are many outstanding nonprofit organizations that provide no-cost support and services to members of the military and veteran community. Although the DOD is not able to endorse or recommend individual organizations, some of these organizations may be found at these links:

• The National Resource Directory:  https://nrd.gov/
• Community based support for military members and families:  https://www.defense.gov/Resources/Community-Support-of-Troops/
• Community based support for veterans:  https://www.defense.gov/Resources/Veteran-Support-Organizations/

The Military One Source military installation directory offers a search engine to find specific military installation offices and resources. Whether you are planning a move to your next duty station or need general information about installations, this site is a useful resource that contains overviews, contacts for programs and services, check-in procedures, and community information for installations worldwide.

Military OneSource is the 24/7 connection to information, answers and support for military members and their families working to reach their goals, overcome challenges, and thrive as members of our military community.

Military OneSource also offers portals with information and services pertinent to each military service branch at https://www.militaryonesource.mil/branch-of-service/.

In addition to Military OneSource, DOD operates a network of websites that offer specific assistance for military members and families:

American Forces Travel:  https://www.americanforcestravel.com/

Blog Brigade:  https://blog-brigade.militaryonesource.mil/

DOD Customer Moving Portal:  https://move.mil/

Education Directory for Children with Special Needs:  https://efmpeducationdirectory.militaryonesource.mil/

Exceptional Military Family Program:  https://efmpandme.militaryonesource.mil/

MilitaryChildCare Portal:  https://militarychildcare.com/

Military Installation Resource Directory:  https://installations.militaryonesource.mil/

Military Spouse Employment Partnership: https://msepjobs.militaryonesource.mil/msep/

Military Life Learning:  https://millifelearning.militaryonesource.mil/

MyCareer Advancement:  https://mycaa.militaryonesource.mil/mycaa/

Plan My Deployment:  https://planmydeployment.militaryonesource.mil/

Plan My Move:  https://planmymove.militaryonesource.mil/

Spouse Education and Career Opportunities: https://myseco.militaryonesource.mil/portal/

All retired military members are permitted to use their military titles socially and in connection with commercial enterprises. Such military titles must never be used in any manner which may bring discredit to the uniformed services.

The use of military titles is prohibited in connection with commercial enterprises when such use, with or without the intent to mislead, gives rise to any appearance of sponsorship or approval by the uniformed services or the Department of Defense.

Military titles will not be a part of the signature block of a retired service member when signing official correspondence as a civil service employee.

Retirees not on active duty will not use their military titles in connection with public appearances outside the United States unless such use is authorized by the appropriate overseas commander.

When military titles are used by members to sign their names to documents that pertain to them personally, they must show that they are in a retired status after the grade. Social and business calling cards must reflect the retired status.

In a military office, retirees using military titles on the telephone could lead to confusion and unwitting misrepresentation, conveying the impression of active-duty status. In any case, common sense is the guide when a retired service member works for the Government. No reasonable retired officer would invite awkwardness when employed in a military office by insisting on being called by a military title if such title outranks the retired service member's active-duty chief.

The retired service member's use of his rightful title in government employment is guided by his acceptance of his civilian status and loyal conformance to the established channels of command. Local customs, practices and conditions of employment are the primary influencing factors.

The process for requesting replacement military medals varies depending on the service branch and when the veteran served. The National Personnel Records Center's website provides helpful information on submitting requests for the replacement of lost military service medals, decorations, and awards.

Please accept our condolences. The VA offers many benefits to offset the cost of burial. The VA website has information on eligibility and how to apply.

Other information regarding VA burial benefits such as flags, headstones and markers is provided by the National Cemetery Administration.

Please accept our condolences on the loss of your loved one. Rendering military funeral honors is one way to show the deep gratitude to those who, in times of war and peace, have faithfully defended our country. This ceremonial paying of respect is the final demonstration a grateful Nation can provide and it is our commitment to recognize the sacrifice and contributions of our Nation's veterans. By law, an honor guard detail for the burial of an eligible veteran consists of at least two members of the U.S. Armed Forces, and at least one member of the detail must be a representative from the deceased veteran's service branch. The honor detail performs a ceremony that includes the playing of taps and the folding and presentation of the American flag to the next of kin. Your funeral director can help you request military funeral honors. 

Link: https://www.militaryonesource.mil/leaders-service-providers/casualty-assistance/funeral-directory-and-planner-resources/

Link: National Cemetery Administration: https://www.cem.va.gov/

The Office of Survivors Assistance was established by Public Law 110-389, Title II, Section 222, in October 2008, to serve as a resource regarding all benefits and services furnished by the Department to Survivors and Dependents of deceased Veterans and members of the Armed Forces.

A Veteran ID Card, or VIC, is a form of photo ID you can use to get discounts offered to veterans at many restaurants, hotels, stores, and other businesses. Find out if you are eligible for a Veteran ID Card—and how to apply: https://www.va.gov/records/get-veteran-id-cards/vic/.

Many VSOs advocate for the well-being of the veteran community and will assist with applications for veterans benefits and appeals. The Department of Veterans Affairs maintains a directory of veterans' service organizations on its website at https://www.va.gov/vso/.

Some VSOs are additional recognized or approved by the VA Secretary for purposes of preparation, presentation, and prosecution of claims under laws administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Individuals seeking such representation should only rely on information found in the VA Office of General Counsel Search for Accredited Attorneys, Claims Agents, or Veterans Service Organizations Representatives. Learn more at https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp.

For detailed information on health care services for veterans provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs, please visit the VA Health Administration website.

Military retirees who are eligible to receive healthcare services from DOD may find information about their benefits at these DOD websites - the Military Health System website and the Tricare website. 

The Department of Veterans Affairs, or VA, has jurisdiction over most veterans' issues and is responsible for programs that support the health and well-being of our Nation's military veterans:

Additional assistance may be found at these VA resources:

• MyVA411 main information line: 1-800-698-2411
• VA benefits hotline: 1-800-827-1000
• GI Bill Hotline: 1-888-442-4551
• VA Health Benefits Hotline: 877-222-8387
• My HealtheVet Help Desk: 1-877-327-0022

Veterans with questions about their health care and benefits (including GI Bill), Contact us online through Ask VA . Questions, updates and documents can be submitted online.

Veterans can also use our chatbot to get information about VA benefits and services. The chatbot won't connect you with a person, but it can show you where to go on VA.gov to find answers to some common questions.

Learn about our chatbot and ask a question

Veterans Crisis Line
If you are a Veteran in crisis or are concerned about one, connect with the Veterans Crisis Line to reach caring, qualified responders with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Many of them are Veterans themselves. Call 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1) or text 838255. 

National Suicide Prevention Hotline
Call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or TTY: 1-800-799-4889. This hotline is a 24-hour, toll-free suicide prevention service available to anyone in a suicidal crisis. You will be routed to the closest possible crisis center in your area. Your call is free and confidential. 

Eligible retiring DOD civilian employees and military members may request a Presidential Congratulatory Retirement Letter and/or Secretary of Defense Congratulatory Retirement Letter.

For a Presidential letter, requesters must have at least 30 years of combined military and federal service. For a Secretary of Defense letter, requesters must have at least 25 years of combined military and federal service.

The process and package templates for requesting these letters are found on Executive Services Directorate Correspondence Division website, in the Downloadable Template section. 

Request packages should be submitted electronically.  Instructions for submitting Presidential Appreciation Letters can be found at https://www.esd.whs.mil/CMD/ploa/. 

Completed Secretary of Defense letter requests are emailed to whs.pentagon.esd.mbx.white-house-suspense-desk@mail.mil.

For detailed information on Federal tax rules and benefits for military members, please visit the Internal Revenue Service website.

Military members, including retirees, are eligible to receive free tax consultation and preparation at Volunteer Income Tax Assistance locations.

Military Members
Information about military pay and benefits may be found on the Military Pay and Benefits Website operated by the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness.

In addition, the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) publishes current pay charts and other important information and resources related to military pay, other benefits and allowances and withholdings.

DOD Civilian Employees
Current pay tables for all Federal employees, including DOD employees, may be found on the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) website.

Please accept our condolences on the loss of your loved one. Although this is a difficult time, it's crucial to promptly report the death of a family member, retiree, or other DOD annuitant.

• Report Death of a Military Family Member: https://milconnect.dmdc.osd.mil/milconnect/public/faq/Life_Events-Death_of_a_Family_Member
• Report an SBP Annuitant's Death: https://www.dfas.mil/RetiredMilitary/survivors/annuitant-death/ 
• Report Military Retiree death: https://www.dfas.mil/RetiredMilitary/survivors/Retiree-Death
• Report Death of Retired DOD Civilian Employee: https://www.opm.gov/retirement-services/my-annuity-and-benefits/life-events/death/report-of-death/
• Report Death of a DOD Civilian retiree or survivor annuitant:  https://rsreporting.opm.gov/AnnuitantDeath

Defense Finance and Accounting Service
As one of the world’s largest finance and accounting operations, DFAS manages and processes the pay for all DOD military and civilian personnel, retirees and annuitants, as well as major DOD contractors and vendors.

Nearly all questions about pay and annuities will be answered by reviewing the extensive DFAS frequently asked questions pages and its secure AskDFAS system.

If you still have questions or need to speak with a DFAS professional, please visit the DFAS customer service center to find the correct phone numbers to reach the appropriate customer service team member:

myPay
myPay is the online system operated by DFAS for military members, retirees and DOD civilian employees to access their pay information and make their own changes immediately with user-friendly technology. You can access myPay nearly 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to change or review your current information, or to check your most recent pay statement. myPay is reliable – The information you input transfers directly to your pay system.

With myPay, you can*:

• View, print, and save leave and earnings statements
• View and print tax statements
• Manage the delivery method for all your statements
• Change federal and state tax withholdings
• Update bank account and electronic fund transfer information
• Make address changes
• View and print travel vouchers
• Control Thrift Savings Plan enrollment
• View, print or save your Retiree Account Statement
• View, print or save your Combat-Related Special Compensation Statement
• Start, stop or change electronic allotments to financial institutions
• Change your mailing or e-mail address
• Make changes to your direct deposit information
• View, print or save your IRS Form 1099R
• Turn on your Retiree Newsletter notification
• Subscribe to the Retiree Newsletter

* Features may vary by agency and armed service and status. You can get a current list of the items you can change using myPay from your servicing payroll office or your customer service representative.

For additional assistance, visit myPay Frequently Asked Questions at https://mypay.dfas.mil/#FaqTop1.

If you have problems using myPay or with your myPay Password, contact myPay customer service:

By Phone
*Centralized Customer Support Unit*
Toll free: 1-888-DFAS411 or 1-888-332-7411
Commercial: (216) 522-5096
Defense Switching Network (DSN): 580-5096
Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET

By Email
Review FAQs and Submit a question using ASK myPay | https://corpweb1.dfas.mil/askDFAS/custMain.action?mid=2

In Person
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The National Personnel Records Center's Federal Records Center Program maintains the Official Personnel Folders of former Federal civilian employees whose employment ended after 1951. Former Federal civilian employees (the person of record), authorized third-party requesters and others can access these OPFs. Former Federal civilian employees may request access to their OPF, after 120 days from separation date, either in person or electronically.

The Defense Counterintelligence Security Agency is the primary investigative service provider for the Federal Government, conducting 95% of all background investigations for over 100 agencies. DCSA also provides an end-to-end vetting service for DOD services and components including submissions, investigations, adjudications, and continuous vetting.

For questions regarding the status of an individual's security clearance, individuals should contact their security manager or designated security official for assistance.

More information about adjudication status and how to appeal decisions is found on the DCSA website.

The Department of Defense does not verify employment for active-duty military members or for civilian employees by telephone. If you represent an organization that is seeking employment verification of a military member or if DOD civilian employee is applying to your organization for a service or job, please use the contact phone numbers on the person's application or resume to reach the DOD office or military organization at which they work or have worked.

Employment verification at the DOD level is managed through websites or through the military services.

For Current DOD Civilian Employees:
The Defense Civilian Employment Verification is an online self-service tool allowing current DOD employees to send employment and/ or salary information to an external organization (business, bank, credit union) or person directly from the Defense Civilian Personnel Data System in a password-protected document via email.

For DOD Civilian Retirees and Military Retirees:
Your Retiree Account Statement contains information on your pay and deductions that many potential creditors require, and your latest RAS is always available on myPay. You may also request a hard copy RAS be mailed to you by calling the Retired and Annuitant Pay Customer Care Center at 1-800-321-1080. Learn more at http://www.dfas.mil/retiredmilitary/manage/payverification.html and https://www.dcpas.osd.mil/Content/Documents/DCPDS-EV-FormerEmployees-FactSheet-LO.pdf.

For Currently Serving Military Members:
There are times when you may need to verify your status as a military member. Whether you are renting an apartment, purchasing a car or other reason, your Leave and Earning Statement (available via myPay) provides details on your pay grade, pay and entitlements, and deductions. There may be times when the business you are dealing with desires more than your LES or ID card as proof of your current military status. In these cases, we recommend you contact your personnel or finance office for assistance.

For Military Service Verification Under the Civil Relief Act:
SCRA is a program that provides certain protections in lending for service members who are called to Active Duty. Lenders seeking to verify active-duty status for military members, as authorized under the SCRA may do so using the Defense Manpower Data Center SCRA website.

Civilian Employees and military members within the Office of the Secretary of Defense, DOD agencies and field activities and select government organizations are serviced by the DOD Washington Headquarters Services Human Resources Directorate.

Civilian employees of the military departments should refer to their local human relations and employee support offices for specific assistance with civilian employment matters.

Uniformed military members are serviced by their respective service branch human resources or personnel commands:

U.S. Army Human Resources Command Services

• https://www.hrc.army.mil/content/Army%20Service%20Center
• https://www.armyresilience.army.mil/
• Army Service Center: 1-888-ARMYHRC (276-9472)  |  DSN: 983-9500

U.S. Marine Corps Human Resources Command

• Contact Number: 703-614-8371
• https://www.hqmc.marines.mil/hrom/Unit-Home/HROMNSFArlingtonOffice/

Navy Human Resources

• MyNavy Career Center, or MNCC, is the 24/7 MyNavy HR resource support center for all Human Resource support for Sailors and their families
• https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Support-Services/MyNavy-Career-Center/
• Career, Pay or Personnel Help: 833-330-MNCC (6622)

U.S. Air Force Human Resources

• For personnel issues: 1-800-525-0102
• myPers/A1 Service Desk: -1-800-525-0102/Option 5
• Air Force Portal Help Desk: 1-877-596-5771/Option 7
• Public Affairs Support: 1-210-565-2334/Option 2
• AFPC Inspector General: 1-210-565-3200
• Air Force Survey Office: 1-210-565-2776
• Pay Issues Defense Finance and Accounting Service: 1-888-332-7411

U.S. Space Force Human Resources

• For Personnel Issues: 800-525-0102
• Public Inquiries: 703-695-3039

U.S. Coast Guard

• Personnel Center: 866-772-8371
• https://www.dcms.uscg.mil/Our-Organization/Assistant-Commandant-for-Human-Resources-CG-1/Contact-CG-1/

To take a guided tour of the Pentagon, you must make a reservation using the Pentagon Tour Reservation Portal. Each adult member of your tour group must then register as a Pentagon Visitor and be cleared by the Pentagon Force Protection Agency to visit the Pentagon for your tour. Tours can fill up quickly, so booking your tour well before your visit is advisable. Reservations may be booked from 14 to 90 days in advance.

More information about Pentagon tours may be found on the Pentagon Tours Webpage.

If you would like to receive a letter/certificate for an Eagle Scout or Girl Scout Gold Award to celebrate his/her accomplishment, please send a request letter to:

OATSD (Public Affairs)
Community Engagement
1400 Defense Pentagon
Washington, DC 20301-1400

Please include the full name of the scout, troop number, date of honor ceremony, or date acknowledged for passing Eagle Scout/Girl Scout Gold Award requirements and return address. Return postage is not required. In order to expedite your request, please consolidate multiple awardees into one (1) troop request. Due to mail handling procedures, allow 4-5 weeks for processing.

The Pentagon Force Protection Agency will fly your American flag over the Pentagon in honor of a special occasion or person.

Guidelines for Requesting an American Flag Flown Over the Pentagon

• The requestor must provide the flag.
• All requests must be submitted 5 - 15 business days prior to the event.
• Each returned flag will be accompanied by a certificate verifying the date upon which the flag was flown and the name of the person for whom the flag was flown.
• Due to limited space, flags cannot be held for more than 30 days from the date of receipt.

If you have Pentagon access:
Room 5B890 on the 5th floor between corridors 8 and 9 Mondays - Fridays (excluding Federal holidays) 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., 703-692-7842

Written requests can be submitted to:
Pentagon Force Protection Agency
9000 Defense Pentagon, Room 5B890
Washington, DC 20301-9000

If you do not have Pentagon access:
If you do not have Pentagon access and are mailing the flag, please add an additional week to the standard 5 - 15 business days prior to the event.

The requestor must provide the return postage from the post office or another requestor prepaid shipping method (i.e. FedEx or UPS Air Bill with an account number or postage stamps) in order for the flag and certificate to be returned. PFPA cannot accept cash, money orders, or checks for the return postage and is not responsible for providing return postage or packaging.

The requestor will be notified immediately to arrange for shipping if return postage or another paid shipping method is not received with the flag.

• A typed or printed letter of request must accompany the flag and contain the following information: 
• ​The name of the flag recipient.
• The occasion in which the flag will be flown for.
• The specific date the flag is requested to be flown on. If no date is specified, the flag will be flown 15 business days after receipt of the flag.
• The point of contact’s name, address, telephone number, and email address.

For more information, visit the Pentagon Force Protection Agency website.

The Department of Defense Entertainment Media Office supports studios, production companies, producers, directors, screenwriters, location managers, actors, and filmmakers in the production of both scripted and unscripted films. Organizations desiring the support of the Department of Defense for film productions should contact the DOD Entertainment Media Office by email at: osd.pentagon.pa.mbx.ce-public-inquiries@mail.mil.

Our service members enjoy connecting with the American people they serve, and we have many community-support and outreach programs that help make that happen. Guest speakers, equipment displays, concert and show bands, aerial demonstrations and flyovers give us the chance to thank you for your support and for you to learn a little bit more about us. The public affairs office at your nearest military installation can help answer your questions about local resources that may be available. The links below will give you an overview of the outreach programs each service offers. We hope to see you soon!

Army: https://www.army.mil/comrel/

Marines: https://www.marines.mil/Community/

Navy: https://www.outreach.navy.mil/

Air Force: https://www.outreachrequests.hq.af.mil/PublicSite/Index.cfm?fwa=home

Air Force Aerial Events: https://www.airshows.pa.hq.af.mil/PublicSite/Index.cfm?fwa=home

Coast Guard: https://www.uscg.mil/Community/

Invitations for the Secretary of Defense must be submitted in writing on official letterhead. Invitations can be faxed to the secretary's scheduling office at 1-703-571-8951, or they can be mailed to the address below. Your invitation should contain as much detail as possible, including information on any other VIPs who plan to attend.

Secretary of Defense
1000 Defense Pentagon
Washington, DC 20301-1000

If you are trying to locate a senior defense official whose position within the DOD is pertinent to your event, you can find a listing of them, their titles and their offices on our biographies page.

The mailing addresses for several of these officials can be found on the DOD website.

The Department of Defense responds to media requests and queries through our Press Operations Center in the Pentagon. This office assists with Pentagon Press Badges, Foreign Press Badges, parking for members of the press. Find information at https://www.defense.gov/Resources/For-the-Media/#media-queries.

The Defense Innovation Unit, or DIU, works across the Department of Defense to identify and understand critical national security challenges that can be solved with leading-edge commercial technology within 12 to 24 months. Through its Commercial Solutions Opening process, DIU competitively solicits proposals for innovative solutions that meet the needs of DOD. DIU leverages Other Transaction Authority (10 U.S.C. § 2371b(f)) to award prototype agreements in as few as 60-90 days. More importantly, after a successful prototype, the company involved and any DOD entity can enter into a follow-on production contract or agreement just as easily.

There are offices within the Department of Defense that can evaluate your invention or idea and offer guidance on submitting your proposal. Each DOD office and military department is responsible for soliciting and evaluating proposals in areas important to its particular defense mission.

To assist you, we have listed mailing addresses and websites of offices where information may be obtained.

Air Force Office of Scientific Research
875 N. Randolph Street, Suite 325
Arlington, VA  22203

Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency 
675 North Randolph Street
Arlington, VA  22203-2114

Department of the Army
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Attention: CERD-ZB
441 G Street, NW
Washington, DC  20314-1000

There are a number of resources that can help you learn how to do business with the Department of Defense. A good place to start is the DOD Office of Small Business Programs.

The General Services Administration operates the System for Award Management (SAM) which posts contract opportunities and procurement notices from Federal contracting offices. Anyone interested in doing business with the government can use this system to search for opportunities. Opportunities include pre-solicitation notices, solicitation notices, award notices, and sole source notices. SAM is an official website of the U.S. Government. There is no cost to use SAM. You can use this site for FREE to:

• Register to do business with the U.S. government
• Update or renew your entity registration
• Check status of an entity registration
• Search for entity registration and exclusion records

DOD issuances contain the various policies and procedures the govern and regulate activities and missions across the defense enterprise. They take the form of formal directives, instructions, publications and manuals, administrative instructions, and directive-type memorandums.

DOD also publishes forms that are used for a variety of internal purposes and for members of the public to request information and services.

These documents may be found on the DOD Washington Headquarters Services issuance website.

Each Military Department publishes forms and regulations that similarly govern and regulate the activities within its respective military branch:

• U.S. Army:  https://armypubs.army.mil
• U.S. Marine Corps: https://www.marines.mil/News/Publications  
• U.S. Navy:  https://www.secnav.navy.mil/doni/default.aspx
• U.S. Air Force: https://www.e-publishing.af.mil/Product-Index
• U.S. Space Force: https://www.e-publishing.af.mil/Product-Index/#/?view=cat&catID=20

The Defense Office of Prepublication and Security Review manages the Department of Defense Security Review program, reviewing written materials both for public and controlled release. This includes the mandatory pre-release review of official government and defense industry work products, as well as materials (such as books and articles) submitted by cleared or formerly cleared individuals pursuant to their voluntary non-disclosure agreement obligations. DOPSR also coordinates official work products with Defense enterprise stakeholders to ensure that information being released is both accurate and represents the Department’s official position.

The Defense Department and military seals are protected by law and reserved for official use only. Under U.S. Code Title 18, Section 506, unauthorized use of the seals may include, but is not limited to commercial, marketing, advertising or promotion use by any nongovernment entity and is punishable.

Military services have provided alternatives to their seals for commercial purposes. They include logos or coats of arms. Permission to use any of these emblems must be granted by the respective services. There is no substitute for the Defense Department seal.

Department of Defense photographs and imagery, unless otherwise noted, are in the public domain. They are available for use, subject to specific guidelines. For current guidelines on using DOD photographs and images, and limitations for public and commercial use, please visit the Defense Imagery Management Operations Center.

As part of its mission to provide central visual information management, the Defense Media Activity provides distribution services to the DOD, other U.S. Government departments, archivists, historians, the media and interested members of the general public. DOD imagery may be found from various official sources.

The Defense Department and military seals are protected by law and reserved for official use only. Under U.S. Code Title 18, Section 506, unauthorized use of the seals may include, but is not limited to commercial, marketing, advertising or promotion use by any nongovernment entity and is punishable.

Military services have provided alternatives to their seals for commercial purposes. They include logos or coats of arms. Permission to use any of these emblems must be granted by the respective services. There is no substitute for the Defense Department seal.

Most DOD and Military Service seals contain the words “DEPARTMENT OF.” For example, “DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE,” “DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY,” etc. The U.S. Coast Guard Seal is distinguished by the gold rope surrounding the anchors instead of the words “DEPARTMENT OF.” Other DOD Components and agency insignia may have a similar appearance. Emblems are often mistaken for seals because they are similar in shape. Please see this graphic for more information.

Using the DOD Seal
The DOD Seal may only be used in an official capacity by DOD or DOD Components.  Similarly, DOD logos or emblems containing the words "Department of" are generally restricted for internal, departmental use only.

Official use
Official use is considered when the DOD seal or logo are used on internal DOD presentations, letterhead, publications, or governmental websites where the content is produced by DOD personnel.  Contact the Military Service POC or OATSD(PA) if you are unsure whether or not you may use an official seal or logo.

The Defense Department, including Military Services, does not allow private third parties to incorporate historic emblems into their marketing and advertising materials.  Even though it may be easy to obtain and use Military Service insignia found on the Web and elsewhere, Federal trademark laws support the rights of the Defense Department to take enforcement measures to protect the respective Military Service names and marks when unauthorized use is found.  Further, the Department strives to avoid the use of its trademarks in a way that may suggest the DOD or the Military Services endorse a particular company, product, service, or website, or is connected to or affiliated with a non-Federal entity in some way.

Reporting unauthorized use
Non-Federal entities may be unaware that their organization is not authorized to download military insignia from other websites and display them on their website.  One should not assume that a graphic design that uses military names and logos on a public website is authorized and that the creator obtained the proper licensing agreements and prior written permissions.  Therefore, please report any instances of suspected unauthorized or inappropriate use of DOD or Military Service seals and insignia to osd.pentagon.pa.mbx.cpo-review@mail.mil.

Use of DOD or military service trademarks or images by contractors as part of a marketing strategy
Even though a company has a contract with the DOD or a Military Service, a company may not use military insignia as a part of its marketing strategy.  Such unauthorized use may create the impression that the DOD or Military Service(s) endorse the company.  Rather, contractors may factually state that their company was awarded a contract to do business with DOD or the Military Services.  If in doubt, forward your proposed marketing mock up to osd.pentagon.pa.mbx.cpo-review@mail.mil for review.

Use of military service insignia for a fundraiser
Use of Military Service names and insignia are generally not permitted as part of fundraising activities.  Before contacting local manufacturers regarding new products, designs or any idea for a fundraiser that includes DOD or Military Service names or marks, check with the respective Military Service Trademark Licensing Office.  

Use of military service insignia on a gift
Permission to use Military Service names or marks on custom-made products may be considered on a case-by-case basis if the product is purchased from an approved licensee and if the product is intended for the personal use of an authorized individual.  Visit the website of the appropriate Military Service Trademark Licensing Office more information or email the office with any questions. 

Use of military service trademarks by non-federal colleges, universities and other learning institutions to promote and advertise military programs
The Department of Defense and Military Service policies prohibit use of Military Service marks in ways that could imply endorsement of a commercial entity or activity, including non-profit organizations and educational institutions.  Visit the DOD Branding & Trademark page for more details.

Use of military service trademarks by political candidates or on political campaign materials
Political candidates may refer to the fact that they served in a particular branch of the military.  However, they cannot use Military Service marks in a way that would give the impression that the Military Service has endorsed their candidacy.  Political candidates also should avoid using pictures of themselves in a military uniform as part of their campaign material, unless a legible disclaimer is present.

DOD visual information nor Military Service insignia may be used in a manner that could imply endorsement of an individual, for-profit business, non-profit organization, or any other Non-Federal entity (including DOD contractors), product, or service.  This applies to both domestic and international users.   The prominent display of the following or similar non-DOD endorsement disclaimers is requested to help mitigate implied endorsements. 

"The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense visual information does not imply or constitute DOD endorsement."

"The Department of Defense [nor a respective Military Service or any other DOD Component] does not approve, endorse, or authorize this company, its products or services."

Any person, business, or organization interested in using the name, emblem, logo, coat of arms, or symbol of a Military Service should contact the appropriate Military Service Trademark Licensing Office for more information about a licensing agreement or prior written permission, depending on the request.  Each Service has its own application and approval process.  Failure to obtain the appropriate license or permission could result in an intellectual property infringement.  Military Services are authorized to protect their intellectual property through various enforcement measures. Learn more about DOD Branding & Trademarks. 

Incorporating Military Service trademarks (word or graphic mark) into another logo or design is generally prohibited.  Consult the appropriate Military Service Trademark Licensing Office for more information.

For more information about use of military insignia by a military support group or social club as part of its branding, name, clothing, and outreach, consult the appropriate Military Service Trademark Licensing Office. 

Challenge coins
Consult the appropriate Military Service Trademark Licensing Program Office to inquire about use of military marks on challenge coins. 

Insignia use for a scouting project
Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts must consult the appropriate Military Service Trademark Licensing Program Office and submit a proposed mockup of any project that contains the use of military insignia.

Permission for insignia use on unit morale items such as t-shirt, mugs, hats
Contact the appropriate Military Service Trademark Licensing Office for a list of approved vendors/licensees to produce unit morale items.

The National Resource Directory lists vetted local community and nonprofit resources that may be able to assist and provide a variety of services and support to members of the military and veteran community recovering from a major disaster.

The American Red Cross offers disaster response and recovery assistance to meet the immediate disaster-related needs of individuals, families, and communities.

Federal Emergency Management Agency
FEMA's mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. The FEMA website contains helpful information for individuals in need of immediate assistance and aid following a major natural disaster:

The Disaster Assistance Improvement Program
The Disaster Assistance Improvement Program’s mission is to provide disaster survivors with information, support, services, and a means to access and apply for disaster assistance through joint data-sharing efforts between federal, tribal, state, local, and private sector partners.

Ready.gov
Launched in February 2003, Ready is a National public service campaign designed to educate and empower the American people to prepare for, respond to and mitigate emergencies, including natural and man-made disasters. The goal of the campaign is to promote preparedness through public involvement.

Military families are stationed all over the world and may not always have family nearby to help when disaster strikes. No one wants to think about worst case scenarios; however, you’ll have peace of mind when you take the time to create an emergency plan for your family.

Military OneSource gives you guidance on what you need to know to prepare for any kind of emergency.

To report incidents of fraud, waste, and abuse, please contact the appropriate Office of Inspector General.

Department of Defense Inspector General
Phone: 800-424-9098

Army Inspector General
Phone: 1-800-752-9747; DSN: 865-1845

Marine Corps Inspector General
Phone: 1-866-243-3887

Navy Inspector General
Phone: 1-800-522-3451; DSN: 288-6842

Air Force Inspector General
Phone: 1-800-538-8429; DSN: 425-8429

The mission of the Department of Defense Inspector General Hotline is to provide a confidential, reliable means to report violations of law, rule, or regulation; fraud, waste, and abuse; mismanagement; trafficking in persons; serious security incidents; or other criminal or administrative misconduct that involve DOD personnel and operations, without fear of reprisal.

Although you may contact the DOD Hotline at any time, a faster way to resolve your complaint is usually to first contact your local or command-level Inspector General's Office. Call the Inspector General Hotline at 800-424-9098. 

If this is an emergency, call 911. To report criminal activity, contact your local police or sheriff's department first as they can best determine if a report of criminal activity needs attention. The USAGov website offers additional tips and resources for reporting local or state law violations as well as violations of Federal law.

You may also report suspected violations of Federal law to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Submit a tip at https://www.fbi.gov/tips or call 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). 

Scam avoidance education and resources

Military members, DOD civilians, Defense contractors, veterans, and their family members serve our country with integrity and honor. Unfortunately, there are scammers out there who try to take advantage of that service to cheat them. You can best protect yourself against military scams by learning the warning signs of schemes that target members of the military community.

Military OneSource has a helpful article with tips on how to recognize the warning signs of the most common military scams.

The Military Consumer is a joint government initiative to empower active duty and retired service members, military families, veterans and civilians in the military community. These free resources can be the first line of defense against fraud and make better-informed decisions when managing your money.

The Federal Trade Commission offers information to the broader public about how to recognize and avoid common scams and fraud.

Victims of scams

If you or someone you know is a victim of a scam, there are a number of resources available about important actions to take and how to submit reports.

Military members may be able to get help from their command’s legal office.

The Federal Trade Commission has information on what to do if you were scammed.

The USA.gov website has information on how to submit reports about various types of scams.

The DOD Safe Helpline is the sole secure, confidential, and anonymous crisis support service specially designed for members of the Department of Defense community affected by sexual assault. Information about reporting options may be found on the DOD Safe Helpline website.

If you prefer, you may also speak or chat with a trained staff member who can provide you confidential crisis support:

• Call: 877-995-5247
• Chat: https://chat-ohl4.safehelpline.org/tos/SHL

The DOD Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office is responsible for oversight of the department's sexual assault policy and programs. SAPRO works hand-in-hand with the military services and the civilian community to develop and implement effective prevention and response programs.

The Department of Defense Suicide Prevention Office releases an Annual Suicide Report to serve as the official source of annual suicide counts and unadjusted rates for DOD and a means by which to increase transparency and accountability for DOD efforts toward the prevention of suicide.

DSPO also releases quarterly reports that summarize suicide counts and annual rates for the Active Component, Reserves, and National Guard.

For information related to veteran statistics and data, please visit the Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for Veterans Analysis and Statistics.

The Department of Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency works to provide the fullest possible accounting for our missing personnel to their families and the nation. The DPAA website contains Information about its current efforts and publicly available data on identification and recovery, as well as those who remain unaccounted for.

The Department of Defense maintains a list of recipients of the top three DOD and military service valor awards, as well as contact information for each military service awards and decoration branch. Please contact the appropriate military service awards and decorations branch for additional information about service-specific awards.

The data contained in these Defense Casualty Analysis System reports are used by DOD organizations, external government agencies, both houses of Congress, the President, the news media, and the general public. The data contained in this site can be used to understand trends in casualties as they relate to terrain, advances in medicine, the advent of better technology that has enhanced the safety of the war fighter, or the challenges brought about by new threats.

DCAS is an application maintained by the Defense Manpower Data Center, or DMDC. The data that DCAS contains is provided from multiple sources, the primary source being that of the military services themselves.

The Defense Manpower Data Center website provides various personnel strength accounting reports.

Data, Research and Statistics provided by Military OneSource connect you to important information about the military community, including survey results, infographics, research reports, and demographic profiles. If you have an interest in quality-of-life and force readiness issues, check back often for the latest research from the Department of Defense.

Since 1967, the Freedom of Information Act, or FOIA, has provided the public the right to request access to records from any Federal agency. It is often described as the law that keeps citizens in the know about their government. Federal agencies are required to disclose any information requested under FOIA unless it falls under one of nine exemptions that protect interests such as personal privacy, national security, and law enforcement.

Information on the Department of Defense FOIA program, including FOIA reporting and resources for submitting a FOIA request, is found on the department's Open Government website:

Additional helpful FOIA information:
https://www.archives.gov/research/foia/file-foia-request

The National Archives and Records Administration is the nation's record keeper of all documents and materials created in the course of business conducted by the federal government. Those valuable records are preserved and are available to you, whether you want to see if they contain clues about your family’s history, need to prove a veteran’s military service, or are researching a historical topic that interests you.

Press releases are available at https://www.archives.gov/press.