Uniforms and Boots: What Soldiers Keep and Do Not Keep After Discharge

When a soldier is discharged from the military, there are several important aspects to consider regarding the return or retention of their gear. This article will explore what is typically kept and returned by former soldiers, focusing on uniforms and boots, as well as provide a comprehensive overview of what happens to other military gear.

Retention and Disposition of Uniforms and Boots

Do soldiers get to keep their uniforms and boots? Yes, soldiers do keep their uniforms and certain boots after they are discharged, provided they receive an honorable or general discharge. However, the specific details of what is kept can vary depending on the type of discharge and the circumstances of their service.

As a poor college student, I often wore bits and pieces of my combat uniforms for years after my discharge. Of course, I removed any insignia and identification markings to ensure my privacy and to avoid any legal or administrative complications. My boots, in particular, were of significant value and lasted me for many years and numerous hikes. This experience highlights the practical benefits of retaining your uniforms and certain boots after a military separation.

What Should Be Returned

THE US military has specific standards for returning equipment. After a soldier is discharged, they keep their uniforms and anything that touches their skin. However, the rest of their gear, including items like rucksacks, body armor, tents, and sleeping bags, get turned back in in a super cleaned condition. This ensures that the equipment remains in good, usable condition for the next users.

Types of Discharges

Does the type of discharge impact what is retained? Yes, it does. If a soldier receives a general or honorable discharge, they can retain all their uniforms, uniforms patches, name badges, coat buttons, and personal clothing. In such cases, the military will not collect these items at the time of discharge. However, it is important to note that even with a general or honorable discharge, it is still a good idea to leave all ammunition, classified materials, and any other sensitive items at the discharge site.

Conversely, if a soldier receives a discharge other than honorable (DTOH), they are required to relinquish all their personal equipment, including uniforms and gear that normally stay with the individual.

Additional Gear and Procedures

Some additional pieces of information are also crucial when it comes to the distribution of military equipment. For instance, items like actual guns and ammunition must not be removed from the military base, regardless of the discharge type. Similarly, classified or sensitive documents and items must also stay with the military and cannot be taken home. In all cases, a thorough briefing on the specific rules and procedures related to the return or retention of equipment is provided to the soldier before their discharge ceremony.

Conclusion

Understanding the specifics of what soldiers keep and what is returned after discharge is vital for anyone leaving the military. Retaining key pieces of uniform and boots can provide practical benefits to former soldiers, while returning other gear in pristine condition helps to ensure that it is available for future service members. Whether you receive an honorable or general discharge, or something less favorable, following the correct procedures can help you navigate this transition smoothly.

FAQs

Q: Can soldiers keep their weapons after discharge?
A: No, even if you receive an honorable or general discharge, you cannot keep your weapon. It must be turned in at the time of discharge. Q: What can I do with my uniforms and boots after discharge?
A: If you receive an honorable or general discharge, you can keep your uniforms, uniforms patches, name badges, coat buttons, and personal clothing. Boots and personal clothing can be kept, but they should be clean and in good condition. Q: What happens to classified materials?
A: Any classified materials or sensitive documents must stay with the military and cannot be taken home. They must be turned in at the time of discharge.