Who Should Write Letters of Recommendation for a Military Discharge Upgrade?
When applying for a military discharge upgrade, one of the most powerful tools in your application is a well-written letter of recommendation. These letters can help demonstrate character growth, provide context for past behavior, and strengthen your case before the Discharge Review Board (DRB) or Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR). But who should write them?
Why Letters of Recommendation Matter
A discharge upgrade application is not just a paperwork exercise. It’s a request for reconsideration of your military service, often years after separation. Strong letters of recommendation can serve as compelling evidence that you’ve become a productive, responsible citizen—or that your original discharge was unjust given the full context.
According to Department of Defense Instruction 1332.28, the review board considers factors such as post-service conduct, rehabilitation, and personal development. Letters of recommendation directly speak to these issues.
Who Should Write a Letter of Recommendation?
Not all recommendation letters carry the same weight. Choose people who can credibly speak to your character, work ethic, and conduct—either during or after your military service.
Here are some of the best types of individuals to consider:
1. Former Military Supervisors or Commanding Officers
If someone from your chain of command is willing to advocate on your behalf—especially someone who outranked you or had oversight of your service—their letter can be very persuasive. They can address your conduct during your enlistment and possibly provide insight into the circumstances surrounding your discharge.
2. Civilian Employers or Supervisors
A civilian employer can show that you have held a job, acted responsibly, and contributed positively to a team or business. These letters are especially valuable when they come from current or recent employers who can testify to your reliability and integrity.
3. Community Leaders or Clergy
Pastors, nonprofit leaders, volunteer coordinators, or other community figures can vouch for your moral character and community involvement. These letters often reflect your commitment to personal growth and helping others, which is looked upon favorably.
4. Mental Health Professionals or Counselors
If part of your discharge was related to substance abuse, PTSD, or another mental health concern, a licensed therapist, psychologist, or counselor can provide important context. They can explain your progress in treatment and your current mental health status.
5. Educators or Academic Advisors
If you’ve pursued education since leaving the military, a professor or academic advisor can describe your performance, work ethic, and growth as a student.
6. Friends and Family (with Caution)
While letters from friends or family members can be included, they should not be the core of your recommendation package unless they have unique insight (e.g., lived experience supporting your recovery or witnessing discrimination or hardship you faced during service). These letters should ideally be accompanied by those from more neutral or professional sources.
Tips for a Strong Recommendation Letter
- Specificity Matters: The more specific the examples, the better. Generic praise is less effective.
- Professional Format: Use a formal tone and letterhead when possible.
- Credibility Counts: The author should include their full name, contact information, and a short description of how they know you.
- Focus on Change: The letter should highlight how the applicant has grown, changed, or succeeded since their discharge.
Final Thoughts
A discharge upgrade is not guaranteed—but strong letters of recommendation can make a significant difference. Focus on quality over quantity. Choose recommenders who know you well, can speak truthfully about your character, and understand the gravity of a military discharge upgrade request.
For more guidance on the discharge upgrade process, visit:
- Department of Veterans Affairs Discharge Upgrade Information
- DoD Boards of Review Reading Room
- militaryadvocacy.com/discharge-upgrades (for legal support and sample letters)
If you’re unsure how to proceed, consider speaking with a discharge upgrade lawyer who can help you build the strongest case possible.