C. M. Joslin
Post, Auxiliary, & SAL 618
Service Officer
2024 - 2025
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Tom Lafitte - Service Officer
tfl117a@gmail.com
478-918-5808
The Service Officer of the American Legion at the Post Level has several important responsibilities and duties. Here are some key ones:
1. **Assisting Veterans and Dependents**: The Service Officer acts as a link between veterans or their dependents and accredited representatives, helping them understand and access their benefits.
2. **Providing Information**: They provide information about various benefits, such as disability, pension, and healthcare benefits, and guide veterans through the claims process.
3. **Referrals**: They refer veterans to local accredited representatives for assistance with filing claims and navigating the VA system.
4. **Advocacy**: They advocate for veterans' rights and ensure that veterans receive due process under the laws and regulations of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
5. **Community Outreach**: They may also engage in community outreach, connecting veterans with local resources such as senior citizen services, nursing homes, and homeless shelters.
The Service Officer plays a vital role in ensuring that veterans and their families receive the support and benefits they deserve.
Requesting Your DD 214
The DD Form 214, also known as a Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, is a document that summarizes a service member's military service history, including their dates of service, duties, and discharge status. This form is often required to access various veteran benefits, including healthcare, education, and housing assistance.
To request a DD 214, you have a few options: Request Your DD 214
1. **Online using eVetRecs**: You can submit your request online through the National Archives' eVetRecs system. This is often the quickest way to get your documents.
2. **Mail or Fax**: Alternatively, you can fill out a Standard Form 180 (SF-180) and send it by mail or fax to the appropriate address based on your branch of service and discharge date.
3. **miConnect**: If you were discharged after the dates specified for your branch (e.g., Air Force after October 1, 2004), you can request your records on the milConnect website.
4. **Direct request to the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC)**: This can be done if you are unable to use the online options.
If you weren't the service member or their next of kin, there might be restrictions on the information you can access if the service member left the military less than 62 years ago.
Helpful Veteran Benefits Resources
