Final answer:
The DD 214 is a form issued to military members upon separation or retirement. It provides a record of their military service. For deceased Marines, the DD 214 is typically prepared within 24 hours of their death.
Step-by-step explanation:
The DD 214 is a form issued by the Department of Defense to members of the military upon separation or retirement. It provides a record of a servicemember's military service, including dates of service, awards and decorations, and the type of discharge. In the case of deceased Marines, the DD 214 is typically prepared within 24 hours of their death, although the exact timeline may vary depending on the circumstances and procedures of the specific branch of service.
Keywords: DD 214, Department of Defense, military service, separation, retirement, record, servicemember, dates of service, awards and decorations, discharge, deceased Marines