Frequently Asked Questions

MIRF is funded in two ways:

• A check-off box on the Ohio tax form to donate some or all of a refund
• Direct donation by individuals or entities (corporations, organizations, etc.)

You can access the application online. Applications are also available at your county's Veterans Service Office or our office. Call 1-888-296-7541, option 5 for more information.

The following kinds of injuries qualify you:

• Qualifying injuries include documentation of the awarding of the “Purple Heart” in accordance with, and pursuant to, applicable federal laws and regulations including, but not limited to, Title 10, Chapter 57 of the United States Code, and Chapter 32 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
• Documentation of a combat-related injury along with documentation that the combat related injury resulted in awarding of a Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB), “Combat Action Ribbon” (CAR), or “Combat Action Badge” (CAB) or its equivalent.
• Documentation of a combat-related injury not covered by (1) or (2), primarily including, but not limited to, traumatic brain injury, or injury caused by detonation of an improvised explosive device (IED), or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Documentation of PTSD must include medical diagnosis.

The following documents are required:

• DD 214 (or DD 215) - a copy of the service member's Report of Separation (DD Form 214) is required. If the DD Form 214 is not available, they should contact their local Veterans Service Office for assistance in obtaining a copy or contact the Department of Veterans Services at (614) 644-0898.
• If still on active duty, the service member must provide proof of service (i.e., Leave and Earnings Statement, official letter from their Personnel Office, etc.)
• Military Activation (or TDY) Orders - For reserve and guard members, a copy of the military orders activating them under Title 10, U.S.C. is required. For active duty members, a copy of the Temporary Duty (TDY) orders is required. The orders must state Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, or Operation New Dawn.
• Proof of Ohio Residency - required for all applications. Service member or veteran must be an Ohio resident at the time of application. Acceptable forms of proof include: copies of Ohio driver's license, utility bill, rental agreement, and officially filed federal or state tax form, military Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), etc.
• Power of Attorney - only required for applications submitted on behalf of the service member.

Applications submitted without these documents will be returned to the applicant. Appeals for the award of the Purple Heart may be made through the service member's respective branch of the Armed Forces.