How can I help a friend get her dad's service record?

Veterans Documents and Personnel Records | USA.gov

Find out how to request and update military records.

Requests for the issuance or replacement of military service medals

When a young man or woman enters military service, a permanent record is kept of the nature of their service including dates, schools attended, unit assignments, awards and decorations, disciplinary actions, discharge, medical data, and more. Under the FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA) much of these records are available to the veterans themselves, surviving family, and even disinterested third parties.