Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 1/28/2010

Question
I have been discharged under 5-17 Uncharacterized. I believe service code 3. This was due to Anxiety attack I had to due receiving letters from friends about how my best friend was attempting suicide. I was a 11x Infantry in the ARMY with a Airborne contract. This was back in August of 2009. I also remember signing forms stating that I would not be able to return to service for 2 years. I have also been told by recruiters back here that this length of time is impossible.

My question is as follows I went into the service for a reason and will do what I must to get re-enlisted and serve. What is your advice for me on this issue? What are my options?

Answer
Dear Peter --

You have very few options.  You have an uncharacterized discharge with a re-entry code that means "do not allow this person to enlist at a future date."

You now have a history of panic attacks.  Panic attacks and other anxiety disorders are inconsistent with military duty.

You would have to have your discharge paperwork changed, and be able to prove that you were misdiagnosed with anxiety attacks, or you will have no chance of returning to service in the Army.  You can petition the Board for Correction of Military Records. If you can show your discharge was inappropriately characterized and you got a negative re-entry code, without cause, you can get your discharge characterization revised.

Good luck to you.