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Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/Discharge downgrade?
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Question
I am an honorably discharged Active Army veteran, and I have completed my entire MSO. I joined the reserve recently on a six month 'extension,' hitch, but had some problems with the unit I was assigned to and skipped this last drill. The commander called me and threatened to downgrade my discharge to OTH, is this possible?
Thanks in Advance.
Dear Rocco --
Yes, each tour of duty establishes an new opportunity for discharge characterization. Therefore, now that you are back in for a "six month extension" your discharge will be characterized by your current service.
I recommend you complete this tour and get out quickly. You do not want your previous excellent service marred by your disagreement with the command on a short reserve tour.
By skipping your last drill, you were officially absent without leave (AWOL). Your command can use that one incident to characterize your entire service. Don't let that happen to you.
Good luck. Please write back, if you have other questions.
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Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard
Answers by Expert:
Cynthia Bedell
Expertise
I am the Commander of the Surface Communications and Support Systems, contract management office. I am currently an active duty Colonel.
Experience
I have bachelors and masters degrees in Engineering. I also hold a patent for a new way to process composite materials into complex shapes.
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