How do I upgrade my military discharge?

How do I Upgrade my Military Discharge?

Upgrading a military discharge can be a complex and time-consuming process, but it is possible to improve your discharge status if you meet the necessary criteria. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to upgrade your military discharge.

Why Upgrade Your Military Discharge?

Before we dive into the process, it’s essential to understand why upgrading your military discharge is important. A better discharge status can have a significant impact on your life, including:

• Employment Opportunities: A better discharge status can increase your chances of getting hired, especially in industries that require security clearances.
• Education and Training: Upgrading your discharge status can make you eligible for education and training benefits, such as the GI Bill.
• Veterans’ Benefits: A better discharge status can make you eligible for more veterans’ benefits, including disability compensation and healthcare.

Who is Eligible to Upgrade Their Military Discharge?

Not everyone is eligible to upgrade their military discharge. To be eligible, you must meet one of the following criteria:

• You were discharged under honorable conditions: If you were discharged under honorable conditions, you may be eligible to upgrade your discharge status if you can demonstrate that you were unfairly discharged.
• You were discharged under general (under honorable) conditions: If you were discharged under general (under honorable) conditions, you may be eligible to upgrade your discharge status if you can demonstrate that you were unfairly discharged or if you can provide evidence of rehabilitation or reformation.
• You were discharged under other than honorable conditions: If you were discharged under other than honorable conditions, you may be eligible to upgrade your discharge status if you can demonstrate that you were unfairly discharged or if you can provide evidence of rehabilitation or reformation.

How to Upgrade Your Military Discharge

Upgrading your military discharge involves submitting an application to the Discharge Review Board (DRB) or the Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR). Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before submitting your application, you will need to gather the following documents:

• Copy of your DD Form 214: This is your discharge certificate.
• Copy of your military personnel records: You can obtain these records from the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA).
• Letters of recommendation: You may need to provide letters of recommendation from former commanding officers, supervisors, or other military personnel who can attest to your character and conduct.
• Evidence of rehabilitation or reformation: If you were discharged under other than honorable conditions, you may need to provide evidence of rehabilitation or reformation, such as a letter from a counselor or a copy of a court record.

Step 2: Determine Which Board to Apply To

You will need to determine which board to apply to, depending on your discharge status and the circumstances surrounding your discharge. Here are the options:

• Discharge Review Board (DRB): If you were discharged under honorable conditions, you will need to apply to the DRB.
• Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR): If you were discharged under general (under honorable) conditions or other than honorable conditions, you will need to apply to the BCMR.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Once you have gathered the required documents and determined which board to apply to, you can submit your application. Here are the steps to follow:

• Complete the application form: You will need to complete the application form, which can be found on the DRB or BCMR website.
• Attach supporting documents: Attach the required documents to your application form.
• Submit your application: Submit your application to the DRB or BCMR, depending on which board you are applying to.

What Happens After You Submit Your Application?

After you submit your application, the board will review your case and make a decision. Here are the possible outcomes:

• Your discharge status is upgraded: If the board determines that you were unfairly discharged, they may upgrade your discharge status.
• Your discharge status is denied: If the board determines that you were not unfairly discharged, they will deny your application.
• Your case is remanded: If the board determines that there is not enough evidence to make a decision, they may remand your case back to the military service branch for further investigation.

Conclusion

Upgrading your military discharge can be a complex and time-consuming process, but it is possible to improve your discharge status if you meet the necessary criteria. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can submit a successful application to the Discharge Review Board or the Board for Correction of Military Records. Remember to gather the required documents, determine which board to apply to, and submit your application in a timely manner.

Table: Discharge Review Board (DRB) vs. Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR)

Bullets: Documents Required for Discharge Upgrade

• Copy of DD Form 214 (discharge certificate)
• Copy of military personnel records
• Letters of recommendation
• Evidence of rehabilitation or reformation (if applicable)
• Supporting documentation (if applicable)

Bullets: Tips for a Successful Discharge Upgrade Application

• Be thorough and detailed in your application
• Provide clear and concise evidence to support your claim
• Be prepared to provide additional documentation or information
• Be patient and persistent – the process can take time
• Consider hiring a veterans’ advocate or attorney to assist with your application