Military medals and awards carry deep meaning—they represent sacrifice, service, and dedication. If you or a loved one has lost or never received certain medals or decorations, there is a clear process to request replacements through the U.S. government. Here’s what you need to know.
Who Can Request Replacement Medals
You may request replacement medals at no cost if you are:
- The veteran who earned the medals
- An eligible next-of-kin of a deceased veteran (spouse, parent, child, or sibling)
If you are not a veteran or next-of-kin, but the veteran separated from service more than 62 years ago, you can still request the records and purchase medals from commercial sources.
Step-by-Step Process to Request Medals
1. Obtain Standard Form 180 (SF 180)
The process begins with completing SF 180, Request Pertaining to Military Records.
- Download: You can download SF 180 from the National Archives website.
- Online Option: The National Archives also offers an online request portal for faster submission.
2. Gather Supporting Documents
Having key information ready will make the process smoother:
- Veteran’s full name and Social Security Number
- Dates of military service
- Branch of service
- Copy of DD 214 or other separation documents
3. Submit Your Request
There are two ways to submit your request:
- Online: Complete and submit the request through the National Archives eVetRecs system.
- By Mail or Fax: Send the completed SF 180 to the address or fax number listed for your branch of service on the form.
4. Where Your Request Goes
- Army and Air Force: Your request is sent to the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC), which verifies entitlement and forwards it to the appropriate department for issuance.
- Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard: Send the request directly to your branch’s awards department (addresses are provided on SF 180).
If You Are Not Next-of-Kin
If you are not an eligible family member, you may still access the veteran’s Official Military Personnel File (OMPF) if it is considered archival (more than 62 years old).
- You can order copies from the National Archives for a fee.
- Once you know which medals the veteran earned, you may purchase replacements from commercial military memorabilia dealers.
Final Tips
- Be Patient: Requests can take several weeks or even months, depending on demand and the branch of service.
- Double-Check Your Form: Incomplete information is a common reason for delays.
- Keep Copies: Always keep a copy of the SF 180 and any documents you submit for your records.
Replacing lost medals is more than a paperwork exercise—it is a way to honor and preserve the memory of a veteran’s service.
Share Your Story
Do you have a story to tell about the medals you earned—or the journey of replacing them? We’d love to hear your experience at Veterans Story Night at American Legion Post 24. This monthly event is a chance to share your experiences, connect with fellow veterans, and inspire others by honoring the service behind those awards.