What Types of Military Discharges are There?
When a member of the military leaves their service, they are issued a discharge, which is a formal document that summarizes their service and the circumstances surrounding their separation. There are several types of military discharges, each with its own unique characteristics and implications for the individual’s future. In this article, we will explore the different types of military discharges and their significance.
Honorable Discharge
An honorable discharge is the most desirable type of discharge, as it indicates that the service member left the military under honorable circumstances. This type of discharge is typically granted to service members who complete their service contract or are medically discharged due to injuries or illnesses.
Characteristics:
- Typically granted to service members who complete their service contract or are medically discharged
- Indicates that the service member left the military under honorable circumstances
- Has no negative impact on future job prospects or VA benefits
General Discharge
A general discharge is a type of discharge that is granted to service members who do not meet the standards for an honorable discharge but are not separated under punitive or dishonorable conditions. This type of discharge is often granted to service members who have minor disciplinary issues or who are no longer needed in their military role.
Characteristics:
- Typically granted to service members who do not meet the standards for an honorable discharge
- Does not indicate any punitive or dishonorable conduct
- May have some negative impact on future job prospects or VA benefits
Other-Than-Honorable (OTH) Discharge
An OTH discharge is a type of discharge that is granted to service members who are separated from the military due to misconduct or other reasons. This type of discharge can have significant negative consequences for the service member’s future, including the loss of VA benefits and the possibility of future employment difficulties.
Characteristics:
- Typically granted to service members who are separated from the military due to misconduct or other reasons
- Can have significant negative consequences for the service member’s future, including the loss of VA benefits and future employment difficulties
- May be required to pay back any benefits received during service
Dishonorable Discharge
A dishonorable discharge is the most severe type of discharge, as it indicates that the service member was separated from the military due to serious misconduct or criminal activity. This type of discharge can have severe and long-lasting consequences for the service member’s future, including the loss of VA benefits, difficulty finding employment, and even the possibility of future legal action.
Characteristics:
- Typically granted to service members who are separated from the military due to serious misconduct or criminal activity
- Can have severe and long-lasting consequences for the service member’s future, including the loss of VA benefits, difficulty finding employment, and even the possibility of future legal action
- May result in the service member being barred from future military service
Table: Comparison of Military Discharges
| Discharge Type | Characteristics | Consequences |
|---|---|---|
| Honorable | Completes service contract or is medically discharged | No negative impact on future job prospects or VA benefits |
| General | Does not meet standards for honorable discharge, but is not separated under punitive or dishonorable conditions | Some negative impact on future job prospects or VA benefits |
| OTH | Separated from military due to misconduct or other reasons | Loss of VA benefits, difficulty finding employment, and possibility of future legal action |
| Dishonorable | Separated from military due to serious misconduct or criminal activity | Severe and long-lasting consequences, including loss of VA benefits, difficulty finding employment, and possibility of future legal action |
Medical Discharge
A medical discharge is a type of discharge that is granted to service members who are unable to continue serving due to a medical condition or injury. This type of discharge can be honorable or general, depending on the circumstances.
Characteristics:
- Typically granted to service members who are unable to continue serving due to a medical condition or injury
- Can be honorable or general, depending on the circumstances
- May require the service member to undergo medical treatment or rehabilitation
Early Termination of Service
An early termination of service is a type of discharge that is granted to service members who are separated from the military prior to the completion of their service contract. This type of discharge can be honorable or general, depending on the circumstances.
Characteristics:
- Typically granted to service members who are separated from the military prior to the completion of their service contract
- Can be honorable or general, depending on the circumstances
- May require the service member to repay any benefits received during service
Special Discharges
There are several special types of discharges that are granted to service members in specific circumstances. These include:
- Administrative Discharge: A type of discharge that is granted to service members who are separated from the military due to administrative errors or mistakes.
- Disability Discharge: A type of discharge that is granted to service members who are unable to continue serving due to a disability or medical condition.
- Reserve Discharge: A type of discharge that is granted to service members who are separated from the military after completing their reserve duty.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several types of military discharges, each with its own unique characteristics and implications for the service member’s future. An honorable discharge is the most desirable type of discharge, while an OTH or dishonorable discharge can have significant negative consequences. Understanding the different types of military discharges is important for service members and their families, as it can help them prepare for their future and make informed decisions about their military service.
