Would you consider it appropriate to ask a civilian for their DD 214?

CPL (P) Dobin, usually your posers will claim to be some type of SPECOPS. You can usually (not always) tell the real SPECOPS guys as they won't talk much about their exploits. If you want to know if someone is a true vet ask them what AR covers specific things. That usually shuts them down quick.

I was told you can go online and generate your own DD-214 by a Federal Cop at the Boise VA. Apparently if you don't like the DD-214 you were discharged with you can print your own and give yourself all of the medals and awards you want. Here in Boise we have several wannabe Navy SEALS Don Shipley highlighted one.

I would say that if they are running their mouths then they are most likely never been in the SOF. Every SOF type I have been around usually does not talk about their work. One practical reason is that they take OPSEC seriously and if they are flapping their gums than they may be compromising information. I believe the AF SOF like to refer to them selves as quiet professionals.

In most cases someone being very verbose about fantastic stories is either not a real military person or they were or are in the military but are just embellishing on what they do.

I would say that I would agree that in most cases it is not worth to get into a confrontation. Usually people who do this are not secure about who they are and feel like they have to prop them self up.

I'm not sure it is altogether appropriate due to privacy issues to randomly ask someone to see their DD214. However there are resources such as Stolen Valor which can verify suspected phonies and fakers.

http://www.stolenvalor.com/

Also another great resource to check out is fakewarriors.org:

http://www.fakewarriors.org/

For those claiming high level medals such as MOH, Silver Star & Distinguished service cross/AF Cross/Navy Cross. These medals awarded can be verified on the website and are divided by military service and campaign.

http://valor.defense.gov/

Also those claiming to be Navy SEALS (which there are a plethora these days) these guys can be verified through retired Senior Chief Don Shipley (SEAL) who keeps an updated database of all SEALS who ever served. His website his below. Check him out on you tube as he is a riot.

http://www.extremesealexperience.com/1430.h.DON_SHIPLEY_NAVY_SEAL

I absolutely agree with this CPL Dobin. I especially feel the need to view a DD 214 involving homeless veterans asking for money. Its disgusting how many people truly abuse the armed service.

Thank you all for the responses.