Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 3/23/2010

Question
Dear Colonel Bedell,

I was discharged from active duty in August of 1994 with an Honorable Discharge, but with an RE Code of 3 and a separation code of MFF.  In July of 1993 I reenlisted for a $10,000.00 cash bonus and jump school.  A few days before I was to PCS I was told by the Unit Retention NCO that my school had been cancelled because mine was not a combat essential MOS and that slots were filled first with combat MOS'.  At the time I was a 98H and held a TS Clearance. He told me if I would stay in he was certain I could get into the school in a year or so.  I agreed and orders were cut for Fort Carson Colorado.  However, after being stationed at Carson for 6 months I was told it was uncertain if or when I would get the school and I wouldn't get the bonus either way.  I was pretty upset and talked to my commander.  I told my commander that I felt like this was a breach of contract because I had reenlisted for the school and bonus and that I was getting neither.  In August of 1994 I received orders and ETS'ed from the Army.
Fast forward to March 2010:  I am trying to enlist in the Air Force Reserves but the recruiter told me she had to get a summary of discharge from the US Army due to the RE Code of 3.  My questions are:  How and where could I get a copy of this summary of discharge?  I have looked up the separation code and RE code, but both are really vague.  Any assistance would be appreciated.

Sincerely,

Robert

Answer
Dear Robert --

You will have to request a records search from the US Army.  The records probably shipped to St. Louis years ago.

The following web site will explain how to apply to get a copy of your records sent to you.

http://www.archives.gov/st-louis/military-personnel/

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