Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 1/10/2009

Question
Dear Ms. Bidell I got discharged from the Air Force with an Under Honorable Conditions (General) characterization in March 2007. My separation code is JKN. My reentry code is 2B. The narrative reason for separation was misconduct (Miner Infractions). I tried to re-enlist in the Air Force once already in 2008. However I was told because of my reentry code they won't take me back. I made mistakes when I was in the Air Force. However, I'm more mature  now at 23 and just want to be the best I can be.What are my options to re-enlist in the Air Force? Thank you for your time.  

Answer
Dear Ken --

You can either approach another recruiting office and see if they will work with you to waiver your negative re-entry code, or you can petition the board of military corrections to change your discharge rating.

The board petition, if approved, changes your permanent military record.  This should regain you ability to re-enlist, as well as return all VA benefits to you.  However, it can take up to two years to petition the board and receive your answer.

If you receive a waiver to re-enlist, and you serve a complete tour honorably, then you will also regain your VA benefits.  Your discharge characterization on your military record would be the most recent discharge characterization.

Please write back, if you have additional questions or concerns.  Good luck to you.