Opinion: Why an ‘honorable’ discharge is a part of a dishonorable system

Introduction

The term “honorable discharge” is often used to describe the status of a service member who has completed their military service without any major misconduct. However, this term can be misleading, as it does not always reflect the reality of a service member’s experience. In many cases, service members who are discharged with an “honorable” status have actually been subjected to harassment, discrimination, or other forms of misconduct while in the military.

The Problem with Honorable Discharges

There are a number of problems with the current system of honorable discharges. First, the term “honorable” is often used to describe service members who have not actually served honorably. In some cases, service members who have been convicted of serious crimes or who have engaged in other forms of misconduct are still discharged with an “honorable” status.

Second, the process for obtaining an honorable discharge is often arbitrary and unfair. Service members who have been subjected to harassment, discrimination, or other forms of misconduct may find it difficult to obtain an honorable discharge, even if they have not been convicted of any crimes.

Third, an honorable discharge does not always provide service members with the benefits they need to transition to civilian life. Many service members who are discharged with an honorable status are still unable to find employment or housing, and they may also face other challenges, such as homelessness and poverty.

A More Just System

There is a need for a more just system of honorable discharges. This system should ensure that service members who have actually served honorably are recognized for their service, and it should also provide them with the benefits they need to transition to civilian life.

One way to improve the system of honorable discharges would be to create a new category of discharge, such as a “dishonorable discharge with exceptions.” This category of discharge would be used for service members who have been convicted of serious crimes or who have engaged in other forms of misconduct, but who have also demonstrated some degree of rehabilitation.

Another way to improve the system of honorable discharges would be to make the process for obtaining an honorable discharge more fair and transparent. Service members who have been subjected to harassment, discrimination, or other forms of misconduct should have the right to appeal their discharge status, and they should be provided with the resources they need to do so.

Finally, the benefits provided to service members who are discharged with an honorable status should be expanded. These benefits should include job training, housing assistance, and other services that can help service members transition to civilian life.

Conclusion

The current system of honorable discharges is broken. It is time for a new system that is more just and equitable. A new system should ensure that service members who have actually served honorably are recognized for their service, and it should also provide them with the benefits they need to transition to civilian life.