Hope and Healing After Dishonorable Discharge
Fellow Veterans,
Let’s talk about something some veterans face in silence: dishonorable discharge and the path forward. If you’re reading this with shame, guilt, or hopelessness about your military record, I want you to know something important:
Your service still matters. Your injuries are still real. And there may be a path forward.
The Hard Truth About Dishonorable Discharge
A dishonorable discharge feels like a life sentence – cutting you off from VA benefits, employment opportunities, and the veteran community. But here’s what many don’t know:
Not all “bad paper” discharges are permanent barriers.
Understanding Your Discharge Status
Types of Less-Than-Honorable Discharges:
- Dishonorable Discharge – Most serious, from court-martial
- Bad Conduct Discharge – From court-martial or administrative action
- Other Than Honorable (OTH) – Administrative discharge
- General Under Honorable Conditions – May still qualify for some benefits
Key Point: Only veterans with Honorable or General Under Honorable Conditions discharges typically qualify for full VA benefits.
Can You File for VA Disability with Bad Paper?
The Short Answer: It Depends
Dishonorable/Bad Conduct Discharge:
- Generally NOT eligible for VA disability benefits
- Exception: Injuries incurred in line of duty before the incident leading to discharge
Other Than Honorable (OTH):
- May be eligible – VA makes case-by-case determinations
- Character of Service determination required
Path Forward: Discharge Upgrade Process
Two Routes to Consider:
1. Discharge Review Board (DRB)
- Timeline: Must apply within 15 years of discharge
- Purpose: Reviews discharge circumstances
- Outcome: Can upgrade discharge characterization
2. Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR)
- Timeline: No time limit (but earlier is better)
- Purpose: Corrects military record errors
- Outcome: Can change discharge type and reason
Building Your Upgrade Case
Evidence That Helps:
✅ Mental Health Records – PTSD, TBI, depression during service
✅ Character References – Post-service rehabilitation and growth
✅ Medical Documentation – Conditions that may have influenced behavior
✅ Service Records – Positive performance before incident
✅ Post-Service Accomplishments – Education, employment, community service
Common Grounds for Upgrade:
- Undiagnosed PTSD/TBI affecting behavior
- Mental health conditions not properly treated
- Procedural errors in discharge process
- Inequitable punishment compared to similar cases
- Evidence of rehabilitation and positive change
The Character of Service Determination
For OTH Discharges: Even without upgrade, VA may determine you’re eligible for benefits if:
- Service was honorable for VA purposes
- Discharge was due to mental health conditions
- Compelling circumstances warrant benefits
Real Talk from Sarge
I’ve worked with veterans carrying shame about their discharge status. Here’s what I’ve learned:
Your worst day in service doesn’t erase your best days.
Many veterans with less-than-honorable discharges were struggling with:
- Undiagnosed PTSD or TBI
- Mental health crises without proper support
- Substance abuse stemming from service trauma
- Family emergencies requiring unauthorized leave
These aren’t excuses – they’re explanations that matter.
Steps to Take Right Now
1. Gather Your Records
- DD-214 (all copies)
- Complete military personnel file
- Medical records from service and after
- Court-martial transcripts if applicable
2. Document Your Case
- Timeline of events leading to discharge
- Evidence of mental health issues during service
- Post-service rehabilitation efforts
- Character references from recent years
3. Consider Professional Help
- Veterans Service Organizations (VVA, DAV, American Legion)
- Legal assistance for complex cases
- Mental health professionals for supporting documentation
Important Disclaimers
This is complex legal territory. While I can share general information, discharge upgrades require:
- Detailed case analysis
- Legal expertise in military law
- Professional representation for best outcomes
I recommend consulting with:
- Veterans Service Organizations with discharge upgrade experience
- Attorneys specializing in military discharge upgrades
- Mental health professionals familiar with military trauma
Hope for the Future
Your story isn’t over. Many veterans have successfully:
- Upgraded their discharge characterization
- Obtained VA disability benefits after upgrade
- Rebuilt their lives and found peace with their service
The process takes time, effort, and courage – but it’s possible.
Resources for Next Steps
- Discharge Review Board: Each service branch has specific procedures
- Veterans Service Organizations: Free assistance with applications
- VA Regional Offices: Character of Service determinations
- Mental Health Support: Critical for healing and documentation
Final Thoughts
If you’re struggling with shame about your discharge, remember:
- You served when others didn’t
- Your injuries matter regardless of how service ended
- Redemption is possible with the right approach
- You’re not alone in this fight
The military taught us to never leave a fallen comrade behind. That includes you.
IGY6 – No Veteran Left Behind
🎖️ Sarge
Boots 2 Benefits, LLC
Hope and Healing for All Veterans
Note: This information is educational only. Discharge upgrades require specialized legal expertise. Consult with qualified professionals for your specific situation.