Can I be re-eligible for a denied GI Bill?

2018-05-21T10:53:04-04:00

I was discharged shortly after the first Gulf War in 1991 when the Army was 'downsizing' because of not needing a 'peacetime' army at its current size. They put me out for being overweight under the 'General, under Honorable Conditions' discharge, but took away my G. I. Bill in the end. Was that appropriate? I was forced to take out loans and repay them myself. I remember hearing something in the late 90's or early 2000's that they weren't supposed to do that and were retroactively reinstating the G. I. Bill to those that were denied for some of those reasons. Is that true? Would I still be able to collect what I paid my money into??

Response by GySgt Bill Smith made May 21 at 2018 11:48 AM

2018-05-21T11:48:09-04:00

Even if you were given the Chapter 30 in 2000, it is only good for 10 years. Not to be mean, but you did not hold up your end of the bargain to the Army by keeping within weight standards and got discharged, it had nothing to do with "downsizing". The money you paid into the GI bill is gone.

Discharge Requirements for Education Benefits
To receive VA education benefits and services through the Montgomery GI Bill program or Post-9/11 GI Bill program, the Veteran’s character of discharge or service must be honorable.

https://www.benefits.va.gov/benefits/character_of_discharge.asp

Applying for Benefits and Your Character of Discharge - Veterans Benefits Administration

Information about applying for benefits and your charcater of discharge.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made May 23 at 2018 5:56 PM

2018-05-23T17:56:39-04:00

Check with an Advocate- Am. Legion/DAV/VFW Service officer.