This afternoon I had to get a couple of documents together for a special veterans license plate. I figured the LP doesn’t cost anything but a stamp and anytime you get anything free from the state one should surely take advantage of it.
Although the requirements for the special plate do not mention it by name, I figure they would want a copy of my DD-214 in order to show I was honorably discharged from the service. For those unfamiliar with it, the DD (Defense Department) form 214 is your record of discharge from military service. Once I left the Navy I wisely had a copy filed with the county clerk of the county where I grew up. I say wisely because it is one document that I have had to use many times.
As a matter of fact, short of a driver license I would say I have probably had to provide a copy of my DD-214 more than any other document. One who was never in the service might say: “Why?” The reason is that proof of being a military veteran is pertinent in a number of cases. I have shown the DD-214 with a number of job applications, I had to use it to sign up for GI educational benefits when I went to college and later when I started receiving VA medical care. I received a 5-point veterans preference in my current part-time job with the feds thus requiring a copy of the magical 214 as proof. And the list goes on.
My use of other various records? Well, let’s see. My college transcript. I had to provide a copy when I applied for the fed job and a couple of other jobs, but other than that, not so much. My Social Security card. I’ve used it quite a bit and it has been with me for a very long time now. My FBI record? Well, I once wrote the FBI after leaving the service figuring that I had to have some kind of record to have received a Secret clearance in the Navy. But I guess I was mistaken because they said I didn’t have a record. My military record? I have a full copy but I don’t recall ever having to use anything from it, short of my DD-214. As for my permanent school record. Is there such a thing? I’m sure there is, but if I didn’t use it when I applied to college I doubt I have ever used it for anything.
I also don’t think I ever heard anyone who threatened having something placed on someone’s permanent school record other than on television. But if someday someone threatens to put something on your permanent record, I imagine I would try to be polite, just in case although I don’t think I would get too worked up about it.