How to Get a Military Discharge Upgraded?
Serving in the military is a significant commitment, and a dishonorable or undesirable discharge can have a lasting impact on a veteran’s life. Fortunately, there are ways to upgrade a military discharge, and this article will guide you through the process.
What is a Military Discharge?
A military discharge, also known as a DD Form 214, is a document that confirms an individual’s military service and discharge status. There are several types of discharges, including:
- Honorable: The most favorable type of discharge, awarded to service members who have fulfilled their military obligations without incident.
- General (Under Honorable Conditions): A discharge that is not considered honorable, but is still considered satisfactory.
- Other Than Honorable (OTH): A discharge that is less favorable, often awarded to service members who have been court-martialed or have committed serious misconduct.
- Bad Conduct: A discharge that is awarded to service members who have been convicted of a serious offense, such as a felony.
- Dishonorable: The least favorable type of discharge, awarded to service members who have been convicted of a serious offense, such as a felony, or have committed a significant breach of duty.
Why Upgrade a Military Discharge?
Upgrading a military discharge can be beneficial for several reasons:
- Benefits: Veterans with an honorable discharge may be eligible for more benefits, such as VA healthcare and education assistance.
- Employment: An upgrade can improve employment opportunities and increase chances of getting hired.
- Citations and Awards: An upgraded discharge can include citations and awards that recognize a service member’s accomplishments.
- Personal Pride: An upgrade can be a matter of personal pride, allowing a veteran to reflect on their service with greater dignity.
How to Get a Military Discharge Upgraded?
Upgrading a military discharge is a complex process that requires thorough documentation and evidence. Here are the steps to follow:
Contents
Step 1: Review Your Discharge
- Obtain a copy of your DD Form 214 from the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) or the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC).
- Review your discharge to identify any errors or inaccuracies.
- Make a list of the reasons why you believe your discharge should be upgraded.
Step 2: Gather Supporting Documents
- Evidence of Injustice: Collect any documents that demonstrate an injustice or unfairness in your discharge, such as a finding of fact that contradicts your discharge.
- Character Letters: Gather character letters from respected community members, employers, or supervisors that attest to your good character and service.
- Medical Evidence: Collect medical evidence that may have contributed to your discharge, such as a mental health diagnosis or a service-related injury.
- Correctional Action: Gather documentation of any corrective action taken by your chain of command, such as counseling or training.
Step 3: Prepare a Statement
- Write a concise statement that summarizes your situation and explains why you believe your discharge should be upgraded.
- Highlight any mitigating circumstances that may have contributed to your discharge.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
- Submit your application to the Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR) or the Discharge Review Board (DRB), depending on your service branch.
- The application should include:
- Your DD Form 214
- Supporting documents (e.g., evidence of injustice, character letters, medical evidence, correctional action)
- Statement
- Cover letter explaining your request
Timeline and Process
The timeline and process for upgrading a military discharge vary depending on the service branch and the type of discharge:
| Service Branch | Discharge Type | Timeline | Process |
|---|---|---|---|
| Army | OTH | 2-5 years | BCMR: 6-12 months, DRB: 12-24 months |
| Navy | OTH | 2-5 years | BCMR: 6-12 months, DRB: 12-24 months |
| Air Force | OTH | 2-5 years | BCMR: 6-12 months, DRB: 12-24 months |
| Marine Corps | OTH | 2-5 years | BCMR: 6-12 months, DRB: 12-24 months |
Conclusion
Upgrading a military discharge requires thorough documentation, evidence, and a clear explanation of why you believe your discharge should be upgraded. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of success and achieve a more favorable discharge status. Remember to submit your application to the appropriate board and be patient, as the process can take several months to several years.
