Military Records Correction Lawyer

Board for Correction of Military Records

The United States allows the secretary of each military department to rectify any military record if a mistake or injustice is discovered. However, this correction must be carried out through the Boards for Correction of Military Records (BCMR). Each branch of service has its own review board, which is responsible for considering applications for correction of military records. Applications for correction of a military record, including a review of a discharge given by a court-martial, are all considered by the BCMR in each branch.

How To Correct Military Records

To begin the process, service members must first apply to the review board of their respective branch for these corrections. If an alleged error or injustice exists in a military record, the correction board of the military department concerned will evaluate the case and decide whether to amend the record. It’s important to submit relevant evidence in support of your claim, such as witness statements or official documentation, as this will strengthen your case.

An experienced military defense lawyer like Aden Wilkie can be instrumental in navigating this process. Aden and his legal team can help gather and organize the necessary documents, present your case in the best light, and communicate effectively with the appropriate military department. A skilled lawyer ensures that your application is accurate and complete, increasing your chances of a favorable outcome and helping you move forward with a corrected record.

DD 214 Form

The DD214 form, also known as the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, is a critical document for all service members upon separation from the military. This form provides an official record of a service member’s time in the military, including important details such as the type of discharge, active duty status, service dates, rank, and awards received.

The DD214 form is a key part of a service member’s case file and plays a pivotal role in various post-service processes, such as applying for veterans benefits, securing employment, or seeking military record corrections.

It is essential that the information on the DD214 form is accurate, as errors or omissions could affect eligibility for benefits and legal protections, which is why many veterans seek legal assistance in ensuring their form reflects the correct details.

You may obtain a copy of your DD214 form through the National Archives website (click here). Requests can be made online, by fax, or via mail to the appropriate address.

What is a Report of Separation?

A Report of Separation is an official document that outlines the details of a service member’s discharge from the military. The most common version of this document is the DD214 form. It provides essential information such as:

• Date and place of entry into active duty
• Home address at time of entry
• Date and place of release from active duty
• Home address after separation
• Last duty assignment and rank
• Military job specialty
• Military education
• Decorations, medals, badges, citations and campaign awards received
• Total creditable service
• Foreign service credited
• Separation information, including the date and type of separation or discharge issued, character of service, authority and reason for separation, and more

This document is used to verify a service member’s time in the military and serves as an official record of their separation from active duty and is important for veterans when applying for benefits, veterans services, and correcting their military records.

How Do I Get My DD214 Corrected?

To get your DD214 record corrected, the first step is to submit an application to the appropriate military department—the branch of service where you served. This application is typically submitted using DD Form 149, which is the Application for Correction of Military Records.

You will need to include all supporting documentation that justifies the requested correction. The general counsel board within the appropriate military department will review your case and determine whether the correction should be made based on the evidence provided. This process may involve submitting witness statements, medical records, or other supporting documentation that helps prove your claim of error or injustice in your DD214.

Once your application is complete, it is sent to the general counsel board for a detailed review. They have the authority to make corrections or adjustments to your military record if an error or injustice is found.

It’s important that you carefully follow the instructions for submitting your application, as any mistakes or missing information could delay the process. You should also be prepared for the possibility that the board may request additional information or evidence from you.

The process can take some time, depending on the backlog of applications, but having a well-prepared application increases your chances of a successful outcome. As an applicant, it’s essential to stay proactive, follow up on the status of your request, and be prepared to respond quickly if more information is needed.