08/24/2026
Many Veterans may not know that a 1973 fire at the National Personnel Records Center in St. Louis destroyed millions of military personnel records. Army Veterans discharged between 1912 and 1960, and Air Force Veterans discharged between 1947 and 1964 with last names Hubbard through Z were among those affected, leaving many without documents needed to support their VA claims. Even if your records were lost, your right to VA benefits was not. VA has updated its process to reduce delays and provide more consistent decisions for claims involving fire related records. We work directly with the National Personnel Records Center to search for alternative documentation such as unit records, morning reports, hospital admission logs, and other available military sources. Veterans can also submit evidence like buddy statements, private medical records, photographs, letters, and employment documents. The most important step Veterans can take is to file a claim. VA will guide you through the process, help rebuild evidence where possible, and make sure no Veteran is left behind because of missing records. If you believe your records may have been affected by the 1973 fire, you can file a claim at va.gov or call 1 800 827 1000 to speak with a VA representative. Accredited Veteran Service Organizations are also ready to help. Your service is what matters, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
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