CUMMING — During a recent visit with the Cumming Vietnam veterans organization, Forsyth County’s clerk of Superior and State Courts suggested all vets file a copy of their military discharge papers with his office.

Greg Allen’s office is, among other things, the custodian of the community’s official records. He noted that producing proof of military service via form DD214 is a requirement for many things.

Those range from burial in a national cemetery to seeking health and other benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs for a family member who is a veteran.

According to Allen, a spouse or other family member may not be able to find the document in a time of need. By filing it at no cost in his office, however, his staff will be able to “provide a certified copy to the family.”

In addition to serving as the guardian of public documents, Allen’s responsibilities include managing the jury system and collecting fines and fees assessed by the courts.

The Cumming Vietnam Veterans of America chapter meets the first Monday of each month at the Golden Corral Restaurant on Market Place Boulevard. A fellowship dinner begins at 6 p.m., with the meeting at 7 p.m. All Vietnam-era veterans are invited to attend.