Posted on May 2, 2015
Why do you think most discharge upgrade applications fail?
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While I did read the article I would still have to say "unclear, badly written statements." I've heard stories that go like this: "I want my discharge upgraded." That's it, no substance.
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LtCol John Currie
I've seen statements droning on about hunting, fishing and every other conceivable thing EXCEPT for something that might have mattered to the board.
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I selected "Lack of decisional issues" as I have seen similar packages, in different contexts, many many times. Quite simply, a board won't rule in your favor and overturn the initial decision unless they have an objective reason to do so.
That said, "Overall tone" is a definite runner up. "You guys suck, but give me what I want!" is rarely effective.
And I would like to second your comment about "overwhelming the board with documentation." In certain circumstances, I have used the "thud factor" myself in making arguments. However, never when I am trying to convince someone to overturn an earlier decision. To get someone to overturn a decision, you have to give just enough - well organized - to make it clear that your argument is correct, and nothing extraneous.
That said, "Overall tone" is a definite runner up. "You guys suck, but give me what I want!" is rarely effective.
And I would like to second your comment about "overwhelming the board with documentation." In certain circumstances, I have used the "thud factor" myself in making arguments. However, never when I am trying to convince someone to overturn an earlier decision. To get someone to overturn a decision, you have to give just enough - well organized - to make it clear that your argument is correct, and nothing extraneous.
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LtCol John Currie
I meant to put a 5th option: All of the above I've seen packages fail for all these reasons...as I'm sure you have. Sounds like you are living the dream at the DRB....good times!
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So how does one know if their discharge has a good chance of being upgraded?
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LtCol John Currie
Good question Joe. Every case is different so that is a very difficult question to answer in a general way. Broadly speaking, if an applicant has strong documentation to support their issues before the board..and, if the applicant has outstanding, well documented post-service conduct, they are likely to have a strong case. Much depends on the seriousness of the misconduct, the amount of misconduct and the type of characterization received.
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