After staff removed the damaged roof and shelving, they discovered that more records survived than expected. (Photo: National Archives, Record Group 64)
The VA has changed how it handles benefit claims involving military records lost or damaged in the 1973 fire at the National Personnel Records Center. More than 50 years later, the fire can still complicate claims for some Veterans.
The fire broke out near St. Louis in July 1973 and destroyed an estimated 16 million to 18 million military personnel files. Most of the affected records belonged to U.S. Army Veterans discharged between 1912 and 1960. Air Force Veterans discharged between 1947 and 1964 were affected if their last names began with Hubbard through Z. Some California Veterans are likely affected.
The VA announced Aug. 24 that it began using a revised claims process in July. The goal is to reduce delays and repeated paperwork for Veterans whose records were affected by the fire.
Missing files can create problems when a Veteran needs proof of military service or medical treatment. Those records may be important when establishing a connection between a disability and military service. Under the previous process, some Veterans were asked multiple times to complete forms used to reconstruct missing medical and service records. In some cases, they had already submitted the same information.
The new process provides Veterans with one packet containing the forms needed to document their medical treatment and service history. Once submitted, that information can be used throughout the claims process without requiring the Veteran to repeatedly provide the same details. VA claims processors will have better access to fire-related documents that were submitted earlier. Veterans should only need to provide additional information if the National Personnel Records Center determines that more details are necessary.
Original military files are not the only records VA can use to evaluate a claim. Other sources may help confirm a Veteran’s service or medical history. These can include morning reports, hospital admission records, and other historical military documents. The VA may also consider statements from the Veteran or people familiar with the circumstances surrounding an injury, illness, or event when records are believed to have been destroyed.
This change could be especially important for Veterans who filed claims in the past and were denied because supporting military records could not be located. Veterans who believe their records were affected should consider filing a claim. Those with previous denials related to missing records may also have reason to revisit their cases.
The loss of military records does not automatically prevent a Veteran from qualifying for VA benefits. Other evidence may be available to help establish what happened during service.
Veterans can file claims through VA.gov. Those who need assistance can contact VA at 1-800-827-1000 or work with an accredited Veterans service representative.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted family connection to the military, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
