Military Careers, commissioning programs - Marine Corps Times

Legal Documents

Many reserve legal units can help write wills and/or powers of attorney. Check with your reserve center for details. Also ask your commander or unit administrator for a DD Form 1543 — Annual Legal Checkup. If legal unit support is not available, it is recommended that you contact a local attorney.

The following documents, or certified true copies, must be easily accessible:

• Marriage license.

• Birth certificates for you and authorized family members.

• Court orders or decrees pertaining to persons who are your authorized family members. This includes divorce decrees and adoption papers.

• Detailed plans for dependent care, including a special power of attorney for emergency medical care for minors.

• A general or special power of attorney to ensure the person you appoint can take care of your financial, legal and medical matters in your absence.

• A legal will. This is especially important if you own property. You should include a plan for distribution of your personal effects in the event of your death. This service is provided free for all members of the military.

• Copies of civilian medical histories for you and all family members (to include past illnesses or injuries not recorded in your military medical record and immunization records).

• An up-to-date passport.

• Copies of your Servicemember’s Group Life Insurance form and any other insurance policies.

Troops deploying to extended active duty or an exercise lasting more than 31 days have the option to enroll in the Uniformed Services Thrift Savings Plan or change deduction options.