Expert: MARK A. HOWELL - 7/10/2010

Question
After serving 11 1/2 years in the Navy I was given an Honorable discharge with a HFT (Unqualified for Active Duty - Other) and RE-3F (erroneous discharge). I re-enlisted once and extended numerous times. The last extension was so I could lose 20 lbs to re-enlist. Needless to say that did not happen and I was involuntary discharged for being overweight. The Navy gave me half a years severance when I left. When I applied for VA benefits I was told I had to pay it all back. I did not ask to leave the Navy and felt the Navy quit on me.
My question is as follows: How could I serve an Erroneous Enlistment if I served in full.(I was not allowed to re-enlist, they let what was left of my extension run out) and if I left the Navy kicking and screaming(I refused to sign the paperwork and they had to call the Master At Arms)why am I having to pay the VA back my severance pay that was given to me?
I was told that I would only have to pay it back if I ever tried to go back to the service.

Thanks for your Time

Answer
Kristina,
That doesn't make sense to me either.  You RE code should've been 3T (Overweight#.  Sounds like a simple typo because F and T are close together on a keyboard.  Have you talked directly to the VA?  They have a special Center for Women Veterans.  Call 1-800-827-1000 and ask for this center.  Also you should contact the American Legion Post in your town #look in the phone book.)
They have Service Officers that specialize in helping veterans obtain record corrections and VA benefits.  They will review your case and file on your behalf, all for free.

I hope they help you straighten out your problem.
Colonel Howell