Expert: n/a - 12/16/2007

Question
Dear,Sir
First Thank you for your time for those of us who require your service. I would like to know if a Other Than Honorable Military Discharge in Lieu of court martial, I opted for 25 years ago with no court martial or no conviction,DD-214 reads (Other Than Honorable Administration Discharge) prohibits me from eligibility requirements for concealed weapon permit for the state of Tennessee? I am a weapons owner/purchaser prior to Brady Act. But have been stealth since(no purchase attempt),but no more living under the guilt or fear of my young immature decisions & past mistakes, I am a Voter & Vote, NRA member, in TN.I have been twice selected to serve Jury duty in my county. I have a clean " No Record" civilan criminal jacket!P.S. I have attempted to upgrade my disharge thru the appeals process in Washington D.C.( In person) in 1990 the final vote 3 against 2 for, final outcome Denied, for those reading this GOD speed with your appeal & GOD Bless, your Christian Brother in the great state of Tennessee! Thank You V.V.S.

Answer
This is a very difficult question because Federal Laws states you are banned from owning a firearm if you were dishonorably discharged from the Military.  This Law is above any State law this is a Federal Law.  The discharge was other than Honorable, That is not dishonorable so according to Federal Laws you were not dishonorably discharged from the Armed Forces.  You may have to apply for a Firearm permit in order to purchase a firearm if a NICS check is required.  Give it a try I think you are cleared for a firearm purchase.  In your State ask your local gun dealer maybe he can give you some other experiences he had with prior customers with the same background.  The positive part of your story is you don't have any convictions.  Good luck and happy Holidays.