The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552, generally provides that any person has a right, enforceable in court, to obtain access to federal agency records. This right of access is limited when such information is protected from disclosure by one or more of the nine FOIA statutory exemptions. Government openness and accountability expand upon the principles of full disclosure of information from the government to its citizens.

Members of the public, including foreign citizens, military and civilian personnel acting as private citizens, organizations and businesses may submit a FOIA request. The Freedom of Information Act applies only to federal agencies. It does not create a right of access to records held by Congress, the courts, state or local government agencies, or by private businesses or individuals. Each state has its own public access laws that should be consulted for access to state and local records.

The FOIA request must be in writing and must provide an adequate description of the records being sought. The FOIA request should be as specific as possible with regard to names, dates, time frames, places, events, subjects, etc. In other words, describe the records being sought as accurately and definitively as possible. The more specific the request is, the more likely we can conduct an accurate search for records responsive to the request. Ensure that your contact information (mailing address, e-mail, telephone number) are reflected in your FOIA request. This information is necessary in the event that we need to reach you for additional information or clarification. The FOIA allows fee charges based on the requester's category. There are three categories: Commercial (pay search, review, and reproduction fees); non-commercial scientific or educational institutions or news media (pay reproduction fees).

The FOIA request may be sent to the USARCENT FOIA office via the following delivery methods: mail, email and online form:

E-mail: usarmy.shaw.usarcent.mbx.foiateam@mail.mil

Online form (Army FOIA Request Form): https://www.foia.army.mil/foiarequest/default.aspx

Or mail your request to: United States Army Central, Attn: FOIA Office, 1 Gabreski Drive, Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina 29152

FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT SAMPLE REQUEST LETTER