Getting Out of the National Guard: A Step-by-Step Guide
Serving in the National Guard can be a rewarding experience, but sometimes circumstances may change, and you may want to leave the service. If you’re looking for ways to get out of the National Guard, you’re not alone. Thousands of National Guard members are honorably discharged every year, and with the right guidance, you can join their ranks.
Before You Start: Understanding Your Contract and Benefits
Before diving into the process of getting out of the National Guard, it’s essential to understand your contract and benefits. If you’re still under contract, you’ll want to review your agreement carefully to understand your obligations and the consequences of leaving.
Types of Discharges
The National Guard offers various types of discharges, including:
- Honorable Discharge: This is the most desirable type of discharge, as it allows you to return to civilian life with pride and without any restrictions on your future military service.
- General Discharge: This type of discharge is often given to service members who have completed their obligation but may not be eligible for re-enlistment.
- Less than Honorable Discharge: This type of discharge is typically given to service members who have committed misconduct or have a serious break in service.
When Can You Get Out of the National Guard?
The National Guard has certain circumstances under which you can get out of your service commitment. These include:
- Medical Discharge: If you’re no longer fit for duty due to a medical condition, you may be eligible for a medical discharge.
- Hardship Discharge: If you’re facing a significant hardship, such as a serious family or financial crisis, you may be eligible for a hardship discharge.
- Dissolution of Marriage Discharge: If you’re experiencing a divorce or legal separation, you may be eligible for a discharge due to the dissolution of your marriage.
How to Get Out of the National Guard: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re looking to get out of the National Guard, follow these steps:
- Step 1: Review Your Contract: Review your contract to understand your obligations and the consequences of leaving.
- Step 2: Determine Your Options: Determine which type of discharge you’re eligible for and what the benefits and consequences of each discharge are.
- Step 3: Gather Supporting Documentation: Gather any supporting documentation, such as medical records or proof of financial hardship, to support your discharge request.
- Step 4: Meet with Your Commander: Schedule a meeting with your commander to discuss your discharge request.
- Step 5: Submit Your Request: Submit your discharge request, including any supporting documentation, to your commander.
- Step 6: Appeal the Decision: If your request is denied, you may be able to appeal the decision to the next higher authority.
Table: Types of Discharges and Benefits
| Type of Discharge | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Honorable Discharge | Eligible for future military service, eligible for Veterans’ benefits, eligible for GI Bill benefits |
| General Discharge | Not eligible for future military service, eligible for Veterans’ benefits, eligible for limited GI Bill benefits |
| Less than Honorable Discharge | Not eligible for future military service, may be eligible for reduced Veterans’ benefits, not eligible for GI Bill benefits |
What Happens After You Leave the National Guard?
After you leave the National Guard, you’ll want to focus on your transition to civilian life. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Vet Centers: The US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers Vet Centers, which provide readjustment counseling and outreach services to eligible veterans.
- Veterans’ Benefits: The VA offers a range of benefits, including healthcare, education, and home loan benefits.
- Job Placement: Many states offer job placement services and employment assistance to help transitioning veterans find employment.
Conclusion
Getting out of the National Guard can be a complex process, but with the right guidance and preparation, you can achieve your goals. By understanding your contract and benefits, determining your options, gathering supporting documentation, meeting with your commander, and submitting your request, you can secure an honorable discharge and move on to the next chapter of your life.
