Form DD 1173 serves as the official Department of Defense authorization for the release of information and the transfer of a deceased veteran's remains to a named individual. This document is the critical link between the military records office and the funeral director, ensuring that sensitive military information and the veteran's remains are handled with the utmost respect and according to strict federal protocols.
The Purpose and Legal Authority of DD 1173
The DD 1173 form, officially titled "Release of Information and Remains Transfer Authorization," is governed by the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and Privacy Act regulations. Its primary function is to grant a designated representative the legal right to access a veteran's Official Military Personnel File (OMPF) and to authorize the transfer of custody of the remains from the military mortuary to the funeral home or next of kin. Without this specific authorization, the military is legally prohibited from releasing either classified service records or the physical remains.
When Is DD 1173 Required?
This form is mandatory in several distinct scenarios involving a deceased veteran. It is required when a family member or appointed representative needs to retrieve the veteran's remains from a military mortuary, such as the National Cemetery Administration or a military branch's mortuary facility. Additionally, it is necessary when a veteran's next of kin wishes to review the service record before a burial or memorial service to ensure the accuracy of the documentation and the proper handling of military honors.
Key Sections of the Form
DD 1173 is structured into specific blocks that capture essential legal and identification data. The form requires the full name, rank, and Social Security Number of the deceased veteran. It also collects detailed information about the authorizing individual, including their relationship to the veteran, government ID number, and contact details. A crucial component is the section where the representative acknowledges the specific records or remains they are authorized to access, providing a clear legal boundary for the release of information.
Completing the DD 1173 Process
Submitting DD 1173 typically involves a coordinated effort between the family, the funeral director, and the military branch that managed the veteran's service. The completed and signed form is usually faxed or emailed directly to the military mortuary or records office to expedite the release. The processing time can vary depending on the branch of service and the specific circumstances of the request, but providing a valid government-issued photo ID for the representative is essential to prevent delays in the release process.
Common Misconceptions and Clarifications
A frequent misunderstanding is that DD 1173 is only used for burial purposes; however, it is also vital for obtaining an Official Military Personnel File for genealogical or personal history research. Another common error is confusing this form with the DD 214, which is the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. The DD 1173 authorizes the release of the DD 214 and other records, but it is not a record itself.
