In 1973, a devastating fire at the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) in St. Louis, Missouri, destroyed millions of military records, leaving many veterans and their families without crucial documentation for their service. If you’re a veteran who was discharged from the Army

or Air Force during certain time periods, there’s a possibility that your records may have been among those lost in this catastrophic event. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reconstruct your military records, especially if you are filing for VA disability compensation or need your service information for other purposes.
What Happened During the 1973 NPRC Fire?
On July 12, 1973, a fire broke out at the NPRC, which housed a vast number of military service records. The fire destroyed approximately 16-18 million official military personnel files, primarily affecting veterans who served during certain periods. The Army and Air Force records were particularly impacted, and a significant portion of those records were permanently lost.
Which Veterans Were Affected by the 1973 Fire?
If you were discharged from the Army or Air Force during specific time frames, your records may have been destroyed in the fire. Here are the details:
1. Army Records (1912 – 1960)
The fire destroyed 80% of the Army records for veterans who were discharged between November 1, 1912, and January 1, 1960. If you served in the Army during this time, there’s a high chance that your records were lost in the fire, unless you were a retiree or Reservist who was still alive on July 12, 1973. In those cases, records may have been preserved.
2. Air Force Records (1947 – 1964)
The fire also destroyed 75% of the records for veterans discharged from the Air Force between September 25, 1947, and January 1, 1964. Importantly, this loss was concentrated among veterans whose surnames fell in the latter part of the alphabet, starting with "Hubbard" and continuing through the end of the alphabet. If your surname falls within that range, your records are more likely to have been affected.
How to Find Out If Your Records Were Destroyed
To determine if your records were lost in the 1973 fire, you can request a copy of your military records from the National Archives or the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC). Here are a few ways to do so:
Request through eVetRecs (Online): Veterans or next-of-kin can request records online through the National Archives website using the eVetRecs system.
Submit a Standard Form 180 (SF-180): This is the traditional method of requesting military records, and it can be done by mail or fax.
If your records were destroyed, the NPRC will inform you, and you’ll be guided on the next steps for reconstructing your service records.
How to Reconstruct Your Military Records
Even if your original military records were destroyed in the fire, there are several ways to reconstruct the information needed for your VA disability claim or other purposes. Here are some options:
1. Use Alternative Sources of Documentation
While your official service records may be gone, there are often alternative documents that can help provide the necessary details of your military service:
DD214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty): This document is often available even if the personnel records were destroyed. It’s the most common form used to verify military service.
Awards and Decorations: Copies of your military awards and decorations, such as the Purple Heart, Bronze Star, or service ribbons, can serve as proof of your service.
Unit Records: Unit rosters, command histories, and other records maintained by your military unit during your time in service can help reconstruct details of your service.
VA Medical Records: If you’ve received VA medical care or compensation in the past, your medical records can sometimes provide verification of service.
VA Benefits and Claims Files: If you’ve applied for VA benefits previously, your claims files may contain relevant details about your service.
2. Contact the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
The VA can be an invaluable resource for veterans whose records were destroyed in the fire. The VA maintains its own records on veterans, including claims history, disability evaluations, and service-connected benefits. If you’ve previously filed for VA disability benefits, the VA may have access to records that can help reconstruct your military history.
3. Submit a Request for a “Reconstructed” Record
In some cases, the NPRC can assist in reconstructing your records through a process called a “reconstructed military record.” This may involve gathering alternative documents, witness statements, and other forms of verification. It’s often used when a DD214 is unavailable, and it can be especially useful for veterans seeking VA disability benefits.
4. Seek Assistance from Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs)
Veterans Service Organizations such as the American Legion, VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars), and DAV (Disabled American Veterans) can help you in the process of reconstructing your service records. These organizations are experienced in navigating the VA system and can assist in obtaining alternative records or guiding you through the claims process.
Steps for Filing a VA Disability Compensation Claim Without Your Service Records
If your service records were destroyed and you need to file a VA disability compensation claim, you can still move forward with your application. Here are the general steps to take:
Gather All Available Documentation: Collect any available records that can help confirm your military service. This includes your DD214, VA medical records, and any relevant documents or awards.
File a Claim: Submit a VA disability claim through the VA’s eBenefits portal or by working with a VSO. Be sure to provide as much information as possible about your military service, including dates of service, assignments, and any in-service injuries or conditions.
Submit a Personal Statement: If official records are unavailable, a personal statement or witness testimony from fellow veterans, family members, or service members who served with you can help substantiate your claim.
Consider an Independent Medical Evaluation (IME): If your service-related injury or condition cannot be verified through service records, a doctor’s evaluation may be helpful in supporting your claim.
Final Thoughts
The 1973 fire at the NPRC in St. Louis was a tragic event that impacted many veterans and their families. While it’s true that millions of military records were lost in the fire, there are still options available for veterans seeking to reconstruct their service records. Whether you’re filing a VA disability claim or simply trying to verify your service, the National Archives, VA, and various veterans organizations are available to help guide you through the process.
If you believe your records were destroyed in the 1973 fire, don’t lose hope. Reconstructing your military service records is possible, and with the right resources, you can move forward in securing the benefits and recognition you’ve earned through your service.
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