Up to 22 million former and current service members and DoD civilians can start applying for certificates honoring them for their role in winning the Cold War.
Those qualifying for the certificates can apply via the Internet at https://www.hrc.army.mil/Default.aspx?ID=903.
Applicants can also mail requests to:
USAHRC
ATTN: AHRC-PDP-A, Dept 480
1600 Spearhead Division Avenue
Fort Knox, KY 40122-5408
Applicants must present proof of service. Army officials caution applicants not to send original documents because they cannot be returned. Applicants must use fax or mail to submit supporting documents.
Persons are eligible for the recognition certificate if they have military or civilian service with the War, Navy or Defense departments between Sept. 2, 1945, and Dec. 26, 1991.
Military or civilian personnel requesting the award must certify that they served honorably and faithfully at any period during the Cold War. Each mailed or faxed request must have official documents verifying their service. Acceptable documents include any government form that includes that includes the applicant's name, Social Security or service or foreign service number and the date of service. Military personnel can also use any of the following documents as proof of service: DD Form 214 (Certificate of Release/Discharge from Active Duty); WD AGO Form 53-55 (War Department Separation Document); or Oath of Office -- Military Personnel or Letter of Appointment.
Qualifying civilian service also can be proved with a Standard Form 50 (Notification of Personnel Action); Standard Form 2809 (Health Benefit Registration Form); an award certificate with employee's name, name of service or agency, and dates; or retirement forms with the employee's name, service or agency and dates.
The Total Army Personnel Command is the executive agent for the recognition project. A telephone help line is available at (502)613-9126.
Story by Jim Garamone, American Forces Press Service