Navy Discharge Review Board (NDRB): Discharge Upgrade Guide
If you’re a former Navy or Marine Corps service member seeking to upgrade or change your discharge characterization, the Navy Discharge Review Board (NDRB) may be your first step. Whether you’re looking to access veteran benefits, improve your employment prospects, or restore your reputation, this post will walk you through the essentials of the NDRB and how it can assist you.
What is the Navy Discharge Review Board?
The NDRB is a panel that reviews the discharges of former Navy and Marine Corps members to determine if they were fair and equitable. The board has the authority to upgrade discharges, correct errors, or modify the narrative reason for separation. However, they cannot address medical discharges, which fall under the jurisdiction of the Board for Correction of Naval Records (BCNR).
Who is Eligible to Apply?
To seek a discharge review, you must meet the following criteria:
- Service Branch: Your service must have been in the U.S. Navy or U.S. Marine Corps.
- Timeframe: Applications must be submitted within 15 years of your discharge date.
- Discharge Type: Most discharge types (but not a discharge adjudicated by a general court-martial) are eligible for review.
For more details, visit the Navy Personnel Command’s NDRB page.
Steps to Apply for a Discharge Review
- Obtain the DD Form 293: This is the application for requesting a discharge review.
- Download it directly from the Defense Department Forms website.
- Complete and Submit the Application: Be thorough in detailing the reasons you believe your discharge was improper or inequitable. Please note that successful applications are usually not simple to put together. You must be thorough and careful, especially when choosing issues to present.
- Prepare Supporting Documents: Attach records such as service evaluations, commendations, and evidence of post-service conduct or rehabilitation.
- Choose the Review Type:
- Document Review: The NDRB will examine your application and supporting materials.
- In-Person Hearing: You can present your case before the board, usually telephonically.
What Factors Does the NDRB Consider?
The NDRB reviews whether your discharge was:
- Consistent with military standards at the time.
- Appropriate for the circumstances surrounding your separation.
- Fair in light of your service record, including commendations, performance, and behavior.
What the NDRB Cannot Do
- Reinstate your military status.
- Change your discharge to one reflecting medical separation.
- Address issues beyond the scope of discharge characterization, such as pay disputes or VA benefits.
If your case requires more extensive correction, the Board for Correction of Naval Records (BCNR) may be the appropriate avenue.
How Long Does the Process Take?
The timeline can vary, but most reviews are completed within 6–24 months. Factors such as case complexity and board workload may affect this.
Need Professional Assistance?
Navigating the discharge review process can be challenging. Consider seeking help from organizations like:
- The American Legion
- Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)
- Legal experts specializing in military law (like us)
Why Upgrade Your Discharge?
Upgrading your discharge can open doors to benefits, including:
- VA Healthcare
- GI Bill Education Benefits
- VA Home Loans
Additionally, it can help restore personal pride and improve civilian employment opportunities.
Final Thoughts
The Navy Discharge Review Board exists to ensure that former service members are treated fairly and in accordance with established standards. If you believe your discharge was unjust, don’t hesitate to explore this option. The process may take time, but the potential benefits are worth the effort.
For more information, consult the Navy Discharge Review Board guidelines.