Discharge Upgrades | Post-Service Accomplishments
A question that frequently arrives at our office: “Does it matter what I’ve done since I was discharged from the military?”
Short answer: Yes.
Long answer: Absolutely.
The majority of former service members who find themselves unceremoniously kicked out of the military with a less-than honorable characterization (Under Honorable Conditions (General Discharge) or Under Other Than Honorable Conditions) work hard to overcome these obstacles. These efforts and accomplishments are not overlooked by the board and can form the basis for a discharge upgrade.
We find it prudent to focus on four areas of post-service activities.
- Professional: This includes a history of successful employment since discharge. Particularly impressive are accomplishments that include supervisory experience and a history of promotions within a chosen industry.
- Education: Evidence of personal improvement are always impressive. This can include college degrees, technical certifications, and continuing education courses.
- Family: Being an active and caring relative within your family is always impressive and shows your willingness to make a difference to others.
- Community: This is an area that is often overlooked and neglected by former service members. Get involved. This might mean being a part of the Lions Club, Habitat for Humanity, Rotary Club, or other community-service-oriented organization. Discharge review boards are always impressed by former service members who have a history of giving back to their community.
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