What independent agency operates the National Personnel Records Center?

The National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) operates under the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), which is an independent agency of the federal government. NARA's primary purpose is to preserve and make accessible the records of the federal government, including personnel records of military veterans. The NPRC specifically manages and provides access to military personnel records, medical records, and other related documents for veterans and their families.

This connection emphasizes NARA's role as a custodian of the nation’s historic records, including vital data that supports veterans' claims for benefits and services. The other agencies listed, such as the Defense Finance and Accounting Service, the Department of Defense, and the Veterans Affairs Administration, do have important functions related to veterans and military personnel, but they do not operate the NPRC. Instead, they interact with it for accessing records when necessary for their respective missions.