In theUnited States Armed Forces,separation means that a person is leavingactive duty but not necessarily the service entirely. Separation typically occurs when someone reaches the date of their Expiration of Term of Service and are released from active duty, but still must complete theirmilitary reserve obligations. Upon separation, they receiveDepartment of Defense Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty (DD 214), which verifies their military service.^[1]

Former service members must present DD 214 to receiveVeterans Administration benefits.^[2] A veteran or next of kin may request a copy of the DD 214 form by going toNational Personnel Records Center's website.

When service members complete their full military obligation, they aredischarged and receive a formal certificate of discharge, usually anhonorable discharge.

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