Types of Military Discharge – Honorable, General, Dishonorable & More

A military discharge, also known as separation, refers to the release of a service member from their military service obligations. There are several types of military discharges, including honorable, general, dishonorable, and more. Each type of discharge has different implications and can significantly impact a service member’s future opportunities, including eligibility for veterans benefits and employment prospects.

Key Takeaways

• An honorable discharge is granted to service members who fulfill their military obligations with proper behavior and competent performance.
• A general discharge is given to service members who have exhibited minor misconduct or failed to complete their original service contract.
• An other than honorable (OTH) discharge is given to service members who have engaged in serious misconduct that could be considered a misdemeanor in the civilian world.
• A bad conduct discharge (BCD) is a punitive discharge imposed as a punishment for serious offenses or a pattern of misconduct.
• A dishonorable discharge is the most severe type of discharge and is given as a punishment for serious offenses, usually felony-level offenses.

What Is Military Discharge?

Military discharge refers to the process of releasing a service member from their military service obligations. It occurs when a service member completes their military service or is discharged early due to various reasons. More than 200,000 U.S. service members leave the military each year. Separation, a broader term, encompasses discharge, release from active duty, transfer to the Individual Ready Reserve, and similar changes in status. It can be voluntary or involuntary and may include disciplinary or punitive reasons.

When a service member leaves the military, they receive a separation document called a DD-214. This document certifies their military service and includes information about their service dates, commendations, reason for separation, and the military’s characterization of their service. The characterization of one’s military service is known as the type of military discharge. The main types of military discharges include honorable, general, other than honorable (OTH), bad conduct, and dishonorable. These discharges can have significant implications for a service member’s future benefits and opportunities.

It is crucial for service members to understand the implications of military discharge as it can have a lasting impact on their eligibility for veterans benefits, employment prospects, and overall future opportunities. Whether a service member receives an honorable discharge, a general discharge, or a more severe type of discharge, it is essential to seek guidance and resources to navigate the transition successfully.

Summary:

• Military discharge is the process of releasing a service member from their military service obligations.
• It can be voluntary or involuntary and may include disciplinary or punitive reasons.
• Upon leaving the military, service members receive a separation document called a DD-214, which includes information about their service and the type of military discharge.
• The main types of military discharges include honorable, general, other than honorable (OTH), bad conduct, and dishonorable.
• Understanding the implications of military discharge is crucial for service members to navigate their future benefits and opportunities.

Types of Military Discharge

When a service member leaves the military, they receive a separation document called a DD-214. This document certifies their military service and includes information about their service dates, commendations, reason for separation, and the military’s characterization of their service. The characterization of one’s military service is known as the type of military discharge. The main types of military discharges include honorable, general, other than honorable (OTH), bad conduct, and dishonorable. These discharges can have significant implications for a service member’s future benefits and opportunities.

A table below provides an overview of the various types of military discharge and their implications:

It is crucial for service members to understand the implications of each type of military discharge as it can significantly impact their future benefits and employment prospects.

Honorable Discharge

An honorable discharge is granted to service members who complete their military service or are discharged early through no fault of their own. It signifies that the service member fulfilled their military obligations with proper behavior and proficient performance of duty. An honorable discharge is an important achievement for service members as it demonstrates their dedication and commitment to their military service.

The Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) sets the standards for military behavior, and service members who adhere to these standards are eligible for an honorable discharge. This type of discharge carries several benefits, including eligibility for federal or state veterans benefits, educational assistance, and special considerations for employment opportunities.

Service members with an honorable discharge have demonstrated their professionalism, integrity, and commitment to the military. It is a reflection of their exemplary military service and can open doors to various opportunities in the civilian sector. Employers often value the discipline, leadership, and training that service members gain through their military service, making them attractive candidates for a wide range of careers.

“Receiving an honorable discharge is a testament to the service member’s dedication and commitment to their military duties. It showcases their excellent military behavior and adherence to the Uniform Code of Military Justice.”

General Discharge

A general discharge is typically given to service members who have shown a pattern of minor misconduct or have failed to fulfill their original service contract. While it signifies that most of the service was satisfactory, it also acknowledges that some problems occurred. A general discharge does not rise to the level of a criminal offense, but it does disrupt military discipline and order.

Service members with a general discharge are still entitled to certain veteran benefits; however, employers may question the reasons for their discharge when considering them for employment. It is essential for service members to understand that a general discharge may impact their future opportunities and take steps to address any underlying issues that may have contributed to the discharge.

Quote: “A general discharge acknowledges that there were some problems during the service period, but it does not carry the same weight as a dishonorable discharge.”

To better illustrate the differences between discharge types, let’s take a closer look at a table comparing the general discharge with other discharge types:

Other Than Honorable (OTH) Discharge

An other than honorable (OTH) discharge, also known as a “bad paper discharge,” is given to service members who have been discharged for doing something very bad but managed to avoid a court-martial. It is typically reserved for misconduct that could be considered a misdemeanor in the civilian world, such as drug use, fighting, abuse of position, or disobeying orders. Veteran benefits are usually not authorized, and employment prospects may be challenging.

“The OTH discharge is a serious consequence for service members who have engaged in significant wrongdoing,” says military attorney John Thompson. “It can have a profound impact on their ability to find employment and access certain benefits.”

Due to the nature of an OTH discharge, it carries a social stigma and may be viewed negatively by potential employers. This type of discharge is considered less favorable than an honorable or a general discharge, which can affect a service member’s post-military career opportunities.

It is crucial for service members to be aware of the potential consequences of an OTH discharge and seek guidance from legal professionals to understand their rights and options for appeal or correction if they believe the discharge was unjust or improperly characterized.

Bad Conduct Discharge (BCD)

A bad conduct discharge (BCD) is a punitive discharge that can be imposed as a punishment by a military court-martial for serious offenses or a pattern of misconduct. It is often the result of a finding of guilt for a military offense or convictions for misconduct, indicating the service member’s unfitness for military service. Individuals with a BCD are typically not eligible for most veteran benefits, and employers may be hesitant to consider them for employment.

“The consequences of a bad conduct discharge can be severe for service members. It is a mark of dishonor that can follow them throughout their lives,” says military law expert, Lieutenant Colonel James Anderson. “Employers may view a BCD as a red flag, raising concerns about the individual’s character and ability to adhere to rules and regulations.”

In addition to limiting access to veteran benefits, a BCD may also affect the individual’s eligibility for certain government programs and services. It can impact their ability to obtain security clearances, participate in government contracts, or pursue career opportunities in law enforcement or other fields that require a high level of integrity and trust. It is important for service members facing potential court-martial proceedings to seek legal representation and understand their rights throughout the process.

Examples of Offenses and Misconduct Leading to a Bad Conduct Discharge

Offenses that can result in a bad conduct discharge include serious criminal acts such as assault, theft, drug offenses, rape, or murder. It can also be imposed for repeated instances of lesser misconduct, such as insubordination, absenteeism, or unauthorized absence. The severity and frequency of the offenses will be taken into account during the court-martial proceedings to determine the appropriate level of punishment.

It is important to note that the military court-martial process provides service members with the opportunity to defend themselves against the charges brought against them. They have the right to legal representation and can present evidence and witnesses to support their case. The severity of the punishment will depend on the specific circumstances of the offense and the individual’s prior military record.

Dishonorable Discharge

A dishonorable discharge is the most severe type of military discharge and is reserved for service members who have committed serious offenses, typically felony-level offenses, either in the military or civilian jurisdiction. This type of discharge is a form of punishment and carries legal consequences. Individuals with a dishonorable discharge are not considered veterans by the federal government, making them ineligible for any veterans benefits.

Dishonorable discharges are typically given after a court-martial or a conviction for a serious offense. Some examples of offenses that may result in a dishonorable discharge include murder, rape, drug trafficking, espionage, or any other criminal act that violates the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

“A dishonorable discharge is a stain on one’s record, and it can have long-lasting negative implications for the service member’s future,” says military law expert, Captain Jane Thompson. “Not only does it strip away their entitlement to veterans benefits, but it can also restrict their rights, such as owning firearms according to U.S. federal law.”

Legal and Social Consequences

A dishonorable discharge can have severe legal and social consequences. In addition to losing access to veterans benefits, individuals with a dishonorable discharge may face challenges in finding employment. Many employers conduct background checks that include military service records, and a dishonorable discharge can be seen as a red flag.

Furthermore, a dishonorable discharge may carry a negative stigma in society, as it is associated with serious criminal offenses. This can lead to difficulties in reintegrating into civilian life, strained personal relationships, and limited community support. It is crucial for service members to understand the potential consequences of their actions and make choices that align with their long-term goals and aspirations.

In conclusion, a dishonorable discharge is a serious outcome that should be avoided at all costs. It not only carries legal consequences but also has long-term implications for a service member’s future. It is crucial for service members to understand the gravity of their actions and the potential impact on their lives. Seeking guidance, counseling, and support can help service members make informed decisions and avoid behaviors that may lead to a dishonorable discharge.

Officer Discharge

Commissioned officers play a vital role in the military, but they are subject to different rules and regulations than enlisted personnel. When it comes to military discharges, officers cannot receive bad conduct discharges or dishonorable discharges like their enlisted counterparts. Instead, the equivalent of a dishonorable discharge for commissioned officers is known as an officer’s discharge.

An officer’s discharge is typically imposed through a general court-martial, indicating serious offenses or a pattern of misconduct. It is a severe form of discharge that reflects the officer’s unfitness for military service. In practical terms, an officer’s discharge carries similar consequences and restrictions as a dishonorable discharge for enlisted personnel.

It is important to note that officers are held to a higher standard of conduct compared to enlisted personnel. Their extensive training and leadership responsibilities require them to exhibit exemplary behavior at all times. As such, an officer’s discharge is an extremely rare occurrence and is reserved for cases where the officer’s actions have significantly compromised their ability to fulfill their duties and uphold the values of the military.

In conclusion, commissioned officers are held to a higher standard of conduct in the military, and the consequences for their actions differ from those of enlisted personnel. An officer’s discharge is the most severe form of discharge for officers and indicates their unfitness for military service. Understanding the implications of different types of military discharges is essential for both enlisted personnel and officers to protect their future rights and benefits.

Medical Discharge

A medical discharge, also known as a disability discharge, is granted to service members who are unable to continue their military service due to a medical or mental condition. This type of discharge is not considered punitive and is typically seen in the same category as an honorable discharge in terms of veterans benefits. The process for a medical discharge involves medical review boards, such as the Physical Evaluation Board (PEB) and the Medical Evaluation Board (MEB), which assess the service member’s condition and determine their eligibility for continued service.

Service members who receive a medical discharge have the right to receive counseling or rehabilitation before being discharged due to medical reasons. This support aims to help them transition to civilian life and manage any challenges they may face as a result of their condition. It is important for service members who are undergoing a medical discharge to work closely with their medical team and follow the appropriate procedures to ensure they receive the necessary support and benefits they are entitled to.

“A medical discharge is a recognition of the service member’s physical or mental health condition that prevents them from fulfilling their military service obligations,” says Dr. Sarah Miller, a military medical expert. “It is crucial for service members to understand that receiving a medical discharge does not reflect negatively on their character or abilities. It is simply a recognition of their unique circumstances and the need for them to prioritize their health and well-being.”

Benefits and Support for Service Members with a Medical Discharge

Service members who receive a medical discharge are still entitled to certain veterans benefits, including healthcare, disability compensation, vocational rehabilitation, and educational assistance. These benefits are designed to support them in their transition to civilian life and help them overcome any challenges they may face as a result of their medical condition.

• Healthcare: Eligible service members may receive medical care through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This includes access to specialized treatment and rehabilitation services.
• Disability Compensation: Service members with service-connected disabilities may be eligible for disability compensation, which provides financial support to help offset the impact of their disability.
• Vocational Rehabilitation: The VA offers vocational rehabilitation programs to help service members with disabilities find suitable employment and achieve their career goals.
• Educational Assistance: The Post-9/11 GI Bill provides educational assistance to service members with a minimum of 90 days of active duty service. This benefit can be used to pursue higher education or vocational training.

It is important for service members with a medical discharge to connect with the appropriate resources and organizations that can assist them in accessing these benefits and support services. The VA and various nonprofit organizations have programs specifically designed to help veterans with disabilities navigate the process and ensure they receive the assistance they need.

Entry-Level Separation (ELS)

An entry-level separation (ELS) is a type of military discharge given to service members who leave the military within the first 180 days of service, typically due to medical issues. Unlike other types of discharges, an ELS is not considered a stain on a service member’s record. However, it may have implications for their classification as a veteran for state and federal military benefits.

Service members who receive an ELS discharge are usually separated from the military during their initial training period. This can occur if they are found to have pre-existing medical conditions that would prevent them from effectively performing their duties or if they develop medical issues during training. It is important to note that the specific circumstances surrounding an ELS discharge can vary based on individual cases and military branch policies.

An entry-level separation does not carry the same implications as other types of discharges, such as dishonorable or bad conduct discharges. It is neither considered good nor bad, but rather a necessary separation due to medical circumstances. However, it is crucial for service members who receive an ELS to understand that their eligibility for certain veterans benefits may be affected, and they should consult with relevant authorities regarding their rights and entitlements.

Examples of Medical Issues Leading to Entry-Level Separation:

1. Severe allergies or asthma that significantly affect physical performance
2. Chronic medical conditions requiring ongoing treatment and care
3. Injuries sustained during training that make continued service infeasible

Individuals who receive an ELS discharge are encouraged to explore alternative career paths and consider pursuing education or vocational training opportunities that align with their abilities and aspirations. While an ELS discharge may limit certain military benefits, it does not necessarily define a service member’s future prospects. It is crucial for individuals in this situation to seek guidance and support to navigate the transition effectively.

Conclusion

The type of military discharge a service member receives can have significant consequences for their future. An honorable discharge is generally desirable, allowing for eligibility for a wide range of veterans benefits and positive employment prospects. Service members with an honorable discharge have the opportunity to access educational assistance, healthcare benefits, and employment assistance programs offered to veterans.

On the other hand, general, other than honorable, bad conduct, and dishonorable discharges can limit veterans benefits and employment opportunities. Service members who receive one of these types of discharges may face challenges when seeking civilian employment or accessing certain benefits like the GI Bill, VA home loans, and VA healthcare services. Employers may view these discharges as red flags and question the candidate’s reliability or ability to follow rules and regulations.

It is crucial for service members to understand the implications of each type of discharge and take necessary steps to protect their future rights and benefits. Seeking legal counsel or guidance from veterans service organizations can help navigate the complexities of military discharges and explore options for appealing or upgrading discharges if necessary. Additionally, service members should familiarize themselves with the available resources and support networks designed to assist veterans in their transition back to civilian life.