What are the Types of Military Discharges?
When a military service member’s enlistment or term of service comes to an end, they may be discharged from the military. A discharge is a formal termination of military service, and it can be issued for a variety of reasons. In this article, we will explore the different types of military discharges and their implications for the service member.
General Discharge
A General Discharge is the most common type of discharge and is issued to service members who have completed their enlistment or term of service. This type of discharge is considered "honorable" and does not reflect negatively on the service member’s record. Service members who receive a General Discharge are eligible for most veterans’ benefits, including education benefits and health care.
Honorable Discharge
An Honorable Discharge is similar to a General Discharge, but it is issued to service members who have served with distinction and have met all the requirements of their enlistment or term of service. An Honorable Discharge is considered a high honor and is often awarded to service members who have received decorations such as the Purple Heart or Bronze Star. Service members who receive an Honorable Discharge are also eligible for most veterans’ benefits.
Medical Discharge
A Medical Discharge is issued to service members who have been medically discharged due to injury or illness. This type of discharge is usually issued when a service member’s medical condition makes it impossible for them to continue serving in the military. Service members who receive a Medical Discharge are eligible for medical benefits and may be entitled to disability compensation.
Bad Conduct Discharge
A Bad Conduct Discharge is issued to service members who have been court-martialed and found guilty of a serious offense. This type of discharge is considered a punitive discharge and can have serious consequences for the service member’s future. Service members who receive a Bad Conduct Discharge are not eligible for veterans’ benefits and may have difficulty finding employment.
Dishonorable Discharge
A Dishonorable Discharge is the most severe type of discharge and is issued to service members who have committed serious crimes or engaged in behavior that is considered detrimental to the military. Service members who receive a Dishonorable Discharge are not eligible for veterans’ benefits and may have difficulty finding employment.
Types of Discharges by Branch
Here is a breakdown of the types of discharges by branch:
| Branch | Honorable | General | Medical | Bad Conduct | Dishonorable |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Army | 70% | 20% | 5% | 3% | 2% |
| Navy | 60% | 25% | 10% | 3% | 2% |
| Air Force | 75% | 15% | 5% | 2% | 3% |
| Marine Corps | 65% | 20% | 10% | 3% | 2% |
Consequences of Discharge
The type of discharge a service member receives can have significant consequences for their future. Here are some of the key consequences of discharge:
- Eligibility for veterans’ benefits: Service members who receive a General or Honorable Discharge are eligible for most veterans’ benefits, including education benefits and health care. Service members who receive a Medical Discharge may be eligible for medical benefits and disability compensation. Service members who receive a Bad Conduct or Dishonorable Discharge are not eligible for veterans’ benefits.
- Employment opportunities: Service members who receive a General or Honorable Discharge may have an advantage when looking for employment, as they are seen as having a strong work ethic and transferable skills. Service members who receive a Bad Conduct or Dishonorable Discharge may have difficulty finding employment due to the stigma associated with their discharge.
- Criminal consequences: Service members who receive a Bad Conduct or Dishonorable Discharge may be subject to criminal consequences, including fines and imprisonment.
- Social security benefits: Service members who receive a General or Honorable Discharge may be eligible for social security benefits, including disability benefits. Service members who receive a Bad Conduct or Dishonorable Discharge may not be eligible for social security benefits.
Conclusion
A military discharge is a formal termination of military service and can be issued for a variety of reasons. The type of discharge a service member receives can have significant consequences for their future, including eligibility for veterans’ benefits, employment opportunities, criminal consequences, and social security benefits. Understanding the different types of discharges and their implications is important for service members and their families.
