← Help in Grant County

Needs military discharge papers (DD-214)

Use when a veteran (or the family of a veteran who died) needs a copy of the DD-214 discharge papers for VA benefits, housing, a job, an ID, or a burial.

In danger right now: call 911. Crisis or thoughts of suicide: call or text 988. Not sure where to start? Call the Silver City Gospel Mission: 575-388-5071. Police, fire or sheriff, not an emergency: 575-388-8840 (Central Dispatch). Print our list of phone numbers →
These are the same steps our staff use when they help someone. "They" means the person who needs help: you, or someone you are helping. Go in order, and call ahead when you can.

1Find out what they need it for

You can ask"Did you serve in the military? Which branch, and about what years?"
You can ask"What do you need the DD-214 for: VA health care, housing, a job, an ID, or a funeral?"
You can say"Copies of your DD-214 are free. We can help you ask for one."
Need it for a funeral or burial right now? Tell the funeral home. They can ask for a rush copy.

2Start with the Veterans Service Officer (free)

The state Veterans Service Officer in Silver City can request the DD-214 and help with VA benefits at the same visit.
NM Department of Veterans Services - Silver City Veterans Service Officer
Veterans service officer (VA claims help)
575-313-5627
1000 W College Ave (WNMU Juan Chacon Bldg, Rm 138-A), Silver City · Weekdays (call)
Bring
  • Any ID
  • their Social Security number
  • branch and dates of service
  • service number if they know it

3Check the County Clerk

Grant County Clerk's Office
County Clerk (recording, marriage licenses, elections, voter registration)
575-574-0042
1400 Highway 180 East, Silver City · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

4Or ask the National Archives directly

The National Personnel Records Center keeps service records. Basic copies are free for veterans and next of kin.
National Archives - National Personnel Records Center
Request a DD-214 (military discharge papers)
314-801-0800
· Statewide phone/online; phone 8am-4pm Central
They can ask online (eVetRecs, which needs an ID.me account) or by mail or fax with Form SF-180.
Bring
  • Full name used in service
  • Social Security number
  • branch
  • dates of service
  • date and place of birth
  • a mailing address

5Use the address and next steps

At the Gospel MissionThe DD-214 can come to the Mission: Their Name, c/o Silver City Gospel Mission, 111 S. Texas St., Silver City, NM 88061.
Once they have it, see the guide "A veteran needs help" for VA health care, housing and other benefits.

This guide is general information only, not medical, legal or other professional advice. Places and rules change, so please call before you go. In an emergency, call 911; in a mental health crisis, call or text 988. Disclaimer

Know a better way? Is something out of date?

If a number or place here is wrong, you know a better resource, or you know a better way to help, tell us. We automatically check reliable sources and update supported routine details. Unclear changes and safety guidance go to our staff for review.

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Print these steps · Find more places to get help · Hours and numbers change; please call ahead. Something wrong? Tell us
Questions, or want someone to walk through this with you? The Silver City Gospel Mission, 111 S. Texas St., Silver City, 575-388-5071, weekdays 9:00am-1:45pm. Everyone is welcome.