Which document records a Soldier's official discharge status upon separation?

Which document records a Soldier's official discharge status upon separation?

• A. Medical records
• B. PEB findings
• C. DA Form 4856
• D. DD Form 214

Answer: (D)

The official discharge status is recorded on the DD Form 214, the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. This form is completed at separation and serves as the formal summary of a Soldier’s active-duty service, showing the dates of service, the type or reason for separation, and the character of service (the discharge status). It’s the primary document used to verify military service and to determine eligibility for veterans benefits. Other records—like medical files, disability evaluation findings, or counseling forms—do not function as the discharge-status record.

The official discharge status is recorded on the DD Form 214, the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. This form is completed at separation and serves as the formal summary of a Soldier’s active-duty service, showing the dates of service, the type or reason for separation, and the character of service (the discharge status). It’s the primary document used to verify military service and to determine eligibility for veterans benefits. Other records—like medical files, disability evaluation findings, or counseling forms—do not function as the discharge-status record.