scope:

a. To revise established procedures for making application and processing discharge certificates for civilian employees or contract workers claiming service that could be considered active military service for entitlement to Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) benefits.

b. To implement the provisions of references (a) and (b).

c. This instruction is a complete revision and should be reviewed in its entirety.

Applicability. This instruction applies to an individual member of a recognized group who applies to the Department of the Navy (DON) for discharge documents. A spouse, next of kin, or legal representative may apply on behalf of a deceased or mentally incompetent person. Proof of death or mental incompetence must accompany such an application.