Upgrade of General Discharge from 1979-80

[bobcio]

What is the name of your state?What is the name of your state?CA
In 1979-80 (when I was 19), I decided I didn't want to be in the AF any more and the First Sergeant "helped me out", getting me a General Discharge under Honorable conditions. My understanding was that this would automatically be upgraded in 6-months (heard this one before?). Over the last 25 years I have used my VA benefits to buy real estate without any difficulty, so I believed all was well.

Recently I requested and received a copy of my DD-214, as I had long lost the original. Upon receipt, I discovered that my discharge was still General, and that the discharge reason was "personality disorder". As a 45 year old executive, this does not sit well with me... It has not hampered my employment ability, but it is an embarrassment (especially given that I work for the government). I've read about the ways to have the records changed, but it seems like you have only one shot. I seek advice on the best approach, a good legal source, or any other assistance that can be provided. Thank you.

[badapple40]

Go to the service branch's discharge review board. You will need good documentation on why it should be honorable. Part of that will involve looking into why you got the characterization of general under honorable in the first place. I would advise finding a civilian attorney who handles military matters (I have a short list of refferals if you want).

[bobcio]

Yes, I would appreciate the referrals.