I’m seeking some advice regarding the impact of a general discharge on public trust and its implications on the SF-85 form. I have two types of discharges from my military service. An honorable discharge from my active duty service, and general discharge for unsatisfactory participation due to not attending drill in the National Guard. I’m particularly interested in understanding how this general discharge might affect my eligibility for roles that require public trust, and whether it would be considered a “fire” or not on the SF-85 form.
I would appreciate any insights or experiences you can share!
Depends on many factors. How long since, what else you’ve done….It’s not cut and dry as they look at a whole picture. Anyone who gives you a direct answer doesnt know what they’re talking about
It’s been four and a half years since that chapter of my life. I take full responsibility for my past decisions, and I’ve learned a lot from them. Since then, I’ve been working hard, and now I’m almost done with my bachelor’s degree. More than anything, I’ve been focused on growing, moving forward, and building a better future for myself and my family.
I’d like to share that I’ve always maintained a clean record and have never had any trouble with the law. I’ve never been arrested, and I haven’t even had a speeding ticket.
Unsat drill performance is far from the worst reason for an other-than-honorable discharge. I don’t think it would be a major problem, especially if this is the only blemish on the record.
I don’t know if it is relevant to a background investigation, but there should be some reenlistment codes on your DD214 or whatever discharge paperwork you have. You may actually be eligible to reenlist. Not that I’m saying you should reenlist, but if they do ask questions you might be able to show that as further proof there was no misconduct and they’d take you back.