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Give Military Justice Attorneys a phone call at (843) 755-6535 Contact Us
Air Force Board for Correction of Military Records (AFBCMR) Army Board for Correction of Military Records (ABCMR) Coast Guard Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR) Navy / Marine Corps: Board for Correction of Naval Records (BCNR)

Boards for Correction of Military Records (BCMRs)

Each service branch has a Board for Correction of Military Records established to correct errors and remove injustices from the official military records of service members. Such records may include, but are not limited to, records regarding discharges, reenlistment codes, disciplinary matters, performance evaluations, selection for promotion, advancement, retirement, dates of service, disability ratings, medals, and various bonuses and benefits. The BCMRs, established under 10 U.S.C. 1552 and listed below, are the highest levels of administrative review within their respective departments:

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What is the Purpose of Correcting Military Records?

The correction of military records allows service members, veterans, or their families to correct any errors or injustices in their military records. The goal is to ensure that these records accurately reflect a service member’s contributions, status, and entitlements.

Errors in records can affect various benefits, awards, or recognitions, so ensuring accuracy is essential for maintaining the integrity of a service member’s record and supporting fair access to benefits.

Uniformed honor guard holding rifles.

What Are Some Common Reasons for Requesting a Correction of Military Records?

Common reasons for requesting corrections include seeking an upgrade in discharge status, correcting an unjust reprimand or other disciplinary action, updating personal information such as name or date of birth, and adjusting military awards, ranks, or promotions.

Veterans also often request corrections to reflect medical conditions or disabilities that were overlooked or misrepresented during their service, which can affect their eligibility for benefits.

Who is Eligible to Apply?

Current and former members of the United States Military (including Reserve personnel) may apply for a correction of an error or removal of an injustice in their official military record.

If a former service member is deceased or incompetent, the member’s spouse, widow or widower, next of kin (parent, sibling, or child), or legal representative can apply for the service member. Applicants must first exhaust available administrative avenues of relief before applying to a BCMR.

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How Do You Apply?

To apply, applicants must submit a completed DD-149 form containing the veteran’s personal information, requested correction, justification for the request, and date and time when the alleged error or injustice was discovered, among other information. Applicants may attach documents in support of their application.

The burden of proof to show either an error or injustice rests with the applicant. Absent evidence to the contrary, the BCMRs will presume that the military record was appropriate and in compliance with service regulations. Applicants can request a personal appearance before the Boards, but are not entitled to a hearing.

Former Military Judge Advocates United By Service

Our attorneys are all former military officers who served on active duty. We work as a team on your case, leveraging each of our attorneys’ unique perspectives and vast experience to win on your behalf.

Gerry Healy

Owner and Founder

Gerry founded Military Justice Attorneys to provide service members with principled, trial-tested defense rooted in firsthand experience inside the military justice system.

  • Former Judge Advocate in the U.S. Marine Corps
  • Recognized Criminal Defense Attorney and Litigator
  • Represents Military Community in Complex Mass Torts
Gerry Healy

Josh Hill

Managing Partner

Josh oversees the firm’s military justice practice, bringing a strategic and detail-driven approach to complex litigation, appeals, and high-stakes administrative matters.

  • Former Military Prosecutor and Defense Counsel
  • Admitted to Practice in all Military Appellate Courts
  • Burton Award for Distinguished Legal Writing
Josh Hill

Chip Hodge

Partner

Chip draws on senior-level military justice experience to advise and defend service members facing courts-martial, investigations, and career-altering administrative actions.

  • Retired Marine Lieutenant Colonel
  • Served as Deputy SJA, Marine Forces Reserve
  • Deployed to Afghanistan in Support of OEF
Chip Hodge

Paul Murray

Partner

Paul represents contractors injured while working overseas in support of US agencies and forces, combining significant litigation experience with a deep commitment to helping injured workers.

  • Former Major in the U.S. Marine Corps
  • Admitted to the Bar in South Carolina, Georgia, and Illinois
Paul Murray

Jon Shelburne

Senior Counsel

Jon brings decades of courtroom and appellate experience, focusing on serious criminal allegations and complex military justice matters worldwide.

  • 30+ Years of Trial Experience
  • Co-Chair, Veterans Committee for Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
Jon Shelburne

Amy Thomas

Of Counsel

Amy provides strategic counsel on military and employment-related matters, informed by senior leadership experience and advanced legal training.

  • Retired Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps
  • Master's in Jurisprudence in Labor & Employment Law
Amy Thomas
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How Can I Gather Supporting Evidence for My Correction Request?

Gathering evidence may involve obtaining statements from fellow service members, supervisors, or commanding officers who can attest to the events in question. Medical records, military personnel records, and award or promotion documentation are also beneficial. You can request copies of your official military records from the National Personnel Records Center or your branch’s personnel command to ensure you have accurate information to support your claim.

Is There Any Risk to Applying?

No, the BCMRs cannot make anything worse in an applicant’s service record, only better.

How Long Does it Take?

The BCMRs process thousands of applications a year. As a result, an applicant should expect to wait as long as 18 months before the board considers their case. This wait can, however, vary between the service branches.

What Happens If My Request for Correction is Denied?

If a request is denied, the applicant generally has options for further recourse. They may be able to request a reconsideration if they can provide new, relevant evidence that was not available in the initial application. Additionally, applicants can seek judicial review in federal court if they believe the board’s decision was unjust. Consulting with our team may help determine the best course of action following a denial.

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Case Results We’ve been in the fight & know how to win

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NO GOMOR ISSUED

Fort Cavazos, Texas. Army Officer Rebuts Allegations of Online Social Media Misconduct; No GOMOR Issued.

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GOMOR LOCALLY FILED

Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina. Army Major (O-4) reprimanded for extramarital sexual conduct, GOMOR locally filed.

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NO ADVERSE ACTION

Fort Stewart, Georgia. An Army Sergeant (E-5) was flagged for allegedly violating a restriction of movement (ROM) order following a suspected case of COVID-19.

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GOMOR REMOVED

Fort Stewart, Georgia. GOMOR removed for Army Ranger arrested for DUI less safe after failing to submit to a field sobriety test.

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GOMOR LOCALLY FILED

Fort Knox, Kentucky. Army Major (O-4) facing an investigation and possible removal from the Army contacted MJA to help him respond appropriately.

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MARINE SNCO PROMOTED

Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Marine Staff Sergeant (E-6) refused NJP, avoids court-martial and earns promotion.

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PROMOTED AFTER GOMOR

United States Army Japan. An Army First Lieutenant (O-2) received a permanently filed GOMOR for allegedly being drunk and disorderly in violation of USF Japan liberty policy.

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GOMOR WITHDRAWN AND DESTROYED

Army Reserve Support Command. Army Sergeant First Class (E-7) reprimanded for alleged aggravated sexual contact.

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GOMOR LOCALLY FILED

1st Theater Sustainment Command, Middle East. Army Major (O-4) reprimanded for allegations of extramarital sexual conduct.

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GOMOR TRANSFERRED

Department of the Army Suitability and Evaluation Board (DASEB). Army Captain (O-3) reprimanded for drunk and disorderly.

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What Is Liberal Consideration?

On September 3, 2014, the Secretary of Defense issued a memorandum providing guidance to the BCMRs as it considers petitions brought by veterans claiming Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) with other than honorable conditions discharge. This includes a comprehensive review of all materials and evidence provided by the applicant.

This policy was issued to make the application process easier for veterans seeking redress and assists the Boards in reaching fair and consistent results in these cases. The guidance also:

  • Mandates liberal waivers of time limits,
  • Ensures timely consideration of petitions, and
  • Allows for increased involvement of medical personnel in Board determinations.

Liberal consideration also applies to requests by veterans for a discharge upgrade due to mental health conditions (including Traumatic Brain Injury), sexual assault, or sexual harassment.

Will a Correction of Records Impact My VA Benefits?

Correcting military records can potentially impact VA benefits, especially if the correction pertains to discharge status or service-connected injuries. For example, an upgraded discharge can change eligibility for benefits such as health care, education, or a pension. However, each case is unique, so applicants should work with the VA or a veterans' service officer to understand how a specific correction might affect their benefits.

Client Testimonials Their Words. Their Cases. Their Results.

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"The Government Came to Bury Me, Josh Hill Buried Their Case Instead"

If you’re reading this review,...

"If you’re reading this review, there’s a fair chance you’re in trouble with the military. The answer is YES—hire Josh Hill. He is worth every penny and more. Don’t gamble with your VA benefits, your military pension, or your freedom. You only get one shot at defending your future. Trust me, this is the guy you want in your corner. When I first hired Josh Hill as my civilian military lawyer, I was staring down a mountain: 28 specifications across 6 charges in a military court-martial. The government basically made a giant mud ball, threw it at the wall, and waited to see what would stick. The stakes couldn’t have been higher—my freedom, my career, my reputation, and my benefits were all on the line. But from day one, Josh brought unmatched experience, surgical strategy, and a level of confidence that gave me hope when I needed it most. Josh Hill is a master of his craft. He navigated the UCMJ like a seasoned warrior—dissecting every allegation, exposing every weakness in the government’s case, and challenging every false assumption thrown my way. His preparation was meticulous, his presence in court was commanding, and his cross-examinations were absolutely relentless. He left no stone unturned and no argument unanswered. Because of Josh’s leadership, we went from what felt like an impossible situation to walking out of that courtroom not guilty on all charges. That wasn’t just a win—it was a total and complete vindication. And it’s 100% because of Josh Hill’s commitment, brilliance, and refusal to let the government steamroll me. Josh Hill didn’t just defend me—he saved my life. I will forever be in his debt for the sacrifices he made and the time he dedicated to my case. One last note: When he calls—ANSWER IT. Drop what you're doing, it can wait. That phone call might be the one thing that changes your future. If you want to hear my story firsthand, Josh has my permission to give you my contact info. I’ll gladly tell you exactly how he absolutely destroyed the government’s case, so I can continue with my life."
-STAFF SERGEANT, USMC

"He is an articulate pitbull in the courtroom."

My career, my life, my futu...

I know Mr Healy quite well. He represented me in a case where the odds were stacked against me. This was the most difficult time of my life considering some other circumstances that were added on. However, he fought for me tooth and nail even though his caseload was very high at the time. It seemed he devoted every ounce of effort to find me justice and in the end, because of his efforts, I was fully acquitted of several charges.

I will never forget that feeling for as long as I live. Upon the announcement of the verdict I nearly collapsed. My career, my life, my future was completely in his hands and he took it as seriously as I did. He is an articulate pitbull in the courtroom. I highly recommend his services if you expect to have any chance of seeing the justice you truly deserve.

-Corporal, USMC

"Mr. Hodge was relentless in his defense of me"

Mr. Hodge was relentless in hi...

Mr. Hodge was relentless in his defense of me . . . and absolved me of any wrongdoing under the UCMJ.
-Corporal, USMC

"His dedication to me as a client was unprecedented."

Josh is a hard nosed and dedic...

Josh is a hard nosed and dedicated attorney that will stand by you every step of the way in your defense. His dedication to me as a client was unprecedented.
-Staff Sergeant, USA

"I would hire them again in a heartbeat."

Gerry and Josh are absolute pr...

Gerry and Josh are absolute professional monsters in the courtroom. I would hire them again in a heartbeat and wouldn’t want anyone else in my corner!
-Private First Class, USA

"I trusted him with my career on the line, and he was outstanding."

Mr. Hill tore apart the govern...

Mr. Hill tore apart the government's theory piece by piece . . . I trusted him with my career on the line, and he was outstanding.
-Petty Officer Third Class, USN

"I would not want my fate in anyone else’s hands."

Gerry Healy is an outstandi...

Gerry Healy is an outstanding attorney. In the courtroom he is confident, knowledgeable, and aggressive. I would not want my fate in anyone else’s hands.
-Airman First Class, USAF
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What if I Was Discharged Under Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell?

On September 20, 2011, the Under Secretary of Defense issued a policy addressing how service boards of correction should review applications for correction of records of individuals discharged under DADT or a similar policy in place prior to DADT. Boards were directed to normally grant requests to change narrative reasons of discharge, characterization of discharges, and re-entry codes of individuals, provided the following two conditions are met:

  • The original discharge was based solely on DADT or a similar policy in place prior to the enactment of DADT; and
  • There were no aggravating factors in the record, such as misconduct.

The policy directs that an honorable or general discharge should be considered absent aggravating factors.

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MJA has successfully represented active duty service members and veterans before Boards for Correction of Military Records. Our skilled attorneys can comb through your military record and build the strongest case possible for your BCMR review.

Don't wait to get help! Call us today for a consultation.

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