Understanding the Reasons Behind an Other than Honorable Discharge from the Military

The term 'Other than Honorable' (OTH) discharge is a significant designation that can affect the future of military veterans. Unlike an Honorably discharged veteran, someone with an OTH discharge may face barriers in both civilian life and in their professional endeavors. This article delves into the reasons for receiving an OTH discharge and the impact it can have on veterans.

Types of Military Discharges and What They Mean for Veterans

There are several types of military discharges, each carrying a different implication for the veteran. While not exhaustive, here are some of the more common types:

A. Civilian Condemned Discharge

This type of discharge applies to military personnel convicted of a crime that would warrant civilian court incarceration. It is a reflection of serious misconduct and can severely impact future re-enlistment eligibility and employment opportunities.

B. Bad Conduct Discharge (BCD)

A BCD is issued when a service member has committed acts that are considered generally harmful to the mission of the Armed Forces. This could include misconduct such as drug use, theft, or assault. A service member who receives a BCD is often stripped of their seniority and may be required to pay restitution.

C. Honorable Discharge

Individuals who complete their service with a high degree of professionalism, dedication, and integrity are typically issued an Honorable Discharge. This is the ideal outcome for most service members and is often cited on resumes and in application forms.

D. Other than Honorable (OTH) Discharge

The OTH discharge occurs when a service member does not meet the required standards for an Honorable Discharge. This can be due to a variety of reasons, including regulatory violations, unsatisfactory performance, or misconduct. It is important to note that an OTH discharge is not a direct reflection of the personal character of the service member, but rather on their conduct during their service.

E. Dishonorable Discharge

This is the most severe type of discharge, reserved for severe cases of misconduct, such as desertion, willful misconduct, or violation of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). A Dishonorable Discharge is a permanent mark that can severely impact the veteran's civilian life and employment opportunities.

Real-life Example: My Own Experience

I served in the Marine Corps during the late 1980s. After three years of service, I received an unsatisfactory urinalysis result, which led to disciplinary action, resulting in a reduction in rank. Despite this setback, my poor lifestyle and continued partying habits led to a second urinalysis failure. When I was called to the commanding officer for a meeting, he offered me the choice of receiving an OTH discharge or going through the UCMJ process again. I opted for the less severe option, and was issued an OTH discharge. At the time, I did not see it as a significant issue, especially since I lived in California. While I had some military tattoos, I could easily explain that I had completed my service. This made passing background checks relatively straightforward.

Transitioning to Civilian Life with an OTH Discharge

After moving to Florida, I encountered situations where my OTH discharge became more noticeable. Florida has a strong reverence for veterans, and special provisions are made for those who have served honorably. However, I found that my tattoo and the OTH discharge marked me differently. In Florida, the veteran status can be quite important, leading to a higher level of respect and certain perks. My experience in California taught me to cover my tattoos and simply state that I had never been enlisted. Most of the time, my explanation was accepted. The only issues arose when removing my shirt was necessary, such as for doctors or during assessments.

Impact on Veterans and Background Checks

While an OTH discharge does not necessarily prevent veterans from securing employment, it can create barriers, especially in fields where a clean record is highly valued. Many employers and regulatory bodies conduct background checks, which can reveal an OTH discharge. This can lead to hesitance or outright rejection during the hiring process. Furthermore, such discharges may impact eligibility for certain professional licenses or opportunities for re-enlistment in the future.

Conclusion

The reasons behind an OTH discharge can vary widely, from minor infractions that accumulate over time to more serious misconduct. Veterans who receive an OTH discharge must navigate the challenges it presents while recognizing that it does not reflect their overall character. Understanding the reasons for an OTH discharge and the impact it can have on civilian life is crucial for effective transition and future career success.