MARTINEZ – Contra Costa County is hosting a free event this month to help veterans and their families access benefits they are entitled to because of their honorable military service to this country.
The “Operation Documentation” veterans assistance event will be held from 8:00 am to Noon on Monday, November 13 at the Contra Costa Clerk-Recorder-Elections Office, 555 Escobar St., Martinez. Former military members and their families can record DD-214 discharge documents free of charge, sign up for a veteran’s distinction on their state driver’s license and register to vote. Veteran Services staff will be on site to provide veterans with a comprehensive overview of the VA benefits they may be eligible to receive. Refreshments will also be provided.
“Contra Costa County is home to many Veterans, and this is a valuable opportunity for the County to serve those Veterans who have earned these important benefits,” Veterans Service Officer Nathan Johnson said. “These benefits may save them money, time, and have an important positive effect on their quality of life.”
The Clerk-Recorder Division offers veterans a place to record and store their DD-214 documents free of charge. These documents provide veterans and their spouses access to veteran benefits, medical insurance, compensation, and even discounts at some retail stores.
“It’s one less thing for veterans and their families to worry about,” Clerk-Recorder Joe Canciamilla said. “We’re pleased to be able to provide this service for those men and women who proudly served our country.”
Often the documents can be displaced when the veteran or their family needs to find them. These documents can also be destroyed during natural disasters.
Though there are over 54,000 veterans in Contra Costa County, less than 150 veterans recorded their DD-214 documents over the last 10 years.
There is no cost for veterans and their families to record DD-214s or to retrieve a certified copy of the
document, once it is recorded. Contra Costa residents who are on active duty can receive a certified copy of the marriage license from their Clerk-Recorder’s Division free of charge.
The Clerk-Recorder’s Office, located at 555 Escobar St., is open weekdays from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. For more information, call 925-335-7900. ###
