DD Form 603-1 - War Souvenir Registration/Authorization

DD Form 603-1 is an official document used to register and authorize individuals to retain war souvenirs and return them to the United States. It is governed by various authorities, including 10 U.S.C., Part IV, Chapter 153, Sec. 2579, DODD 5030.49, DOD 4500.9R, and E.O. 9397. The form is designed to provide proof of authorization for retaining war souvenirs, ensuring compliance with military regulations and customs, and adhering to the Law of Armed Conflict.

Key Fields:

1. Theater and Inclusive Period of Service in Overseas Command: Information about the specific theater and period of service during which the souvenirs were obtained.
2. Name of Owner: The full name of the owner (Last, First, Middle Initial).
3. SSN (Social Security Number): The owner's Social Security Number.
4. Grade/Rank: The owner's military rank or grade.
5. Unit/Organization: Details about the unit or organization to which the owner belongs.
6. Permanent Home Address: The owner's permanent home address, including the ZIP Code.
7. War Souvenir(s): Information about the war souvenirs, including item descriptions and how they were acquired.
8. Certification: A certification section where the owner or a Receiving/Reviewing Officer attests to various aspects related to the retained war souvenirs.
   • a. Date (YYYYMMDD)
   • b. Typed Name, Grade, and Organization of Receiving/Reviewing Officer
   • c. Station
9. Authenticating Official: The section for an official to sign and specify their role (e.g., Company Commander, LTC or above, Contracting Officer Representative).

Privacy Act Statement: The form's Privacy Act Statement outlines the legal authority, principal purposes, routine uses, and disclosure requirements related to the information provided on the form. It also highlights that providing the requested information is voluntary but crucial to establishing proof of authorization to retain war souvenirs.

Use Case: DD Form 603-1 is utilized in military and overseas service contexts to ensure that individuals authorized to retain war souvenirs comply with military customs, traditions, regulations, and international laws. It provides an official record of the retained souvenirs, their nature, and the circumstances of their acquisition. The form is crucial for preventing the seizure of souvenirs during customs inspections.

This form is essential for documenting and authorizing the retention of war souvenirs and ensuring that such souvenirs are in compliance with military regulations and international laws. Compliance with the instructions and certification is vital to safeguard these items during customs processes.