Can You Rejoin the Military with a General Discharge?
Serving in the military can be a life-changing experience, providing valuable skills, education, and personal growth. However, sometimes, circumstances may lead to a less-than-honorable discharge, such as a general discharge. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to the question: Can you rejoin the military with a general discharge?
What is a General Discharge?
A general discharge is a type of discharge issued to military personnel who have completed their service, but have not met the standards for an honorable discharge. A general discharge is not considered a punitive discharge, but rather a neutral or administrative discharge. It’s often issued due to factors such as:
• Medical reasons
• Lack of fitness for duty
• Failure to meet performance standards
• Voluntary separation
Eligibility for Re-enlistment
The short answer is: no, a general discharge typically makes it difficult to rejoin the military. The military has strict eligibility requirements for re-enlistment, and a general discharge often disqualifies an individual from re-enlisting.
According to the Department of Defense’s (DoD) Military Personnel Manual (MILPERMAN), a general discharge can be considered a "bad paper" discharge, which may disqualify an individual from re-enlisting. The MILPERMAN states that:
"A general discharge is not considered an honorable discharge, and may be considered a ‘bad paper’ discharge. Individuals with a general discharge may not be eligible for re-enlistment, depending on the circumstances surrounding the discharge."
Exceptions to the Rule
While a general discharge generally disqualifies an individual from re-enlisting, there may be exceptional circumstances that allow for re-enlistment. These exceptions typically involve:
• Waivers: The military may grant a waiver for re-enlistment, depending on the individual’s circumstances and the discretion of the military authorities. Waivers are typically granted for individuals who have undergone significant personal or professional growth since their discharge.
• Re-enlistment in a different branch: In some cases, an individual with a general discharge may be eligible to re-enlist in a different branch of the military. This is often dependent on the individual’s skills, experience, and the needs of the other branches.
• National Guard or Reserve: The National Guard and Reserve components may have different eligibility requirements for re-enlistment. An individual with a general discharge may be eligible to join the National Guard or Reserve, depending on the state’s policies and the individual’s qualifications.
The Re-enlistment Process
If an individual with a general discharge is granted a waiver or meets the eligibility requirements for re-enlistment, they will need to go through the re-enlistment process. This typically involves:
- Application: The individual submits an application for re-enlistment, which includes providing detailed information about their discharge and any subsequent events.
- Investigation: The military conducts an investigation to verify the individual’s information and determine their eligibility for re-enlistment.
- Interview: The individual may be required to participate in an interview with a military officer to discuss their discharge and any outstanding issues.
- Decision: The military authorities review the application and investigation and make a decision regarding the individual’s eligibility for re-enlistment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a general discharge typically makes it difficult to rejoin the military. However, there may be exceptional circumstances that allow for re-enlistment, such as waivers, re-enlistment in a different branch, or joining the National Guard or Reserve. Individuals with a general discharge should consult with a military attorney or career counselor to explore their options and determine the best course of action.
Table: Re-enlistment Eligibility Requirements
| Discharge Type | Re-enlistment Eligibility |
|---|---|
| Honorable | Yes |
| General | No (typically) |
| Other Than Honorable | No |
| Dishonorable | No |
Bullets: Factors Considered for Re-enlistment Waivers
• Personal growth and rehabilitation
• Military skills and experience
• Education and training
• Community service and volunteer work
• Family and employment circumstances
• Other exceptional circumstances
