The DD-214 is a veteran's official proof of patriotic service. It includes the veteran's social security number on the form. Veterans who have lost their social security cards or have them stolen often still have their DD-214. However, the DD-214 IS NOT CURRENTLY ACCEPTABLE IN LIEU OF A SOCIAL SECURITY CARD FOR EMPLOYMENT.
Veterans lapsed into homelessness may even find replacing a certified copy of a DD-214, when locally registered as most are, than replacing a lost or stolen Social Security card. The same applies for those living in rural areas, where actual social security offices can be far away.
Allowing the DD-214 or Certified Copy as an option on List C of Form I-9 to establish employment eligibility is a small thing that could remove one more obstacle for our veterans.