There are many reasons why service members voluntarily separate from the military.
This voluntary separation guide is for you. We’ll discuss:
You’re leaving the military either by your choice or the military’s choice.
And if you’re separating before your obligated years of service are up, keep in mind that you may be asked to complete that service. Separating doesn’t necessarily mean you’re leaving the military — but leaving active duty status.
When you raised your hand, swore the oath, and then signed on the line, you agreed to a minimum period of service time.
For the majority of those separating, it’s honorable and done so at the end of their service time.
For others, the time is cut short for a number of reasons — some honorable and some not (such as for disciplinary reasons).
Depending on your branch of the military — such as Navy , Army, Airforce, Coast Guard, Marines — the process may look different.
Your separation from the military can be voluntary or involuntary.
For example:
Keith has been in the Army for just over 19 years, and he’s dreaming of retirement in just a few short months . Since he enlisted, he’s …
… and now the time has come to retire.
He’s ready to part ways with military life, and he will be doing so voluntarily. His commitment was fulfilled, he served his country, and he’ll give it a full 20 years and end with great benefits.
Retirement is just one reason for voluntary separation. We’ll discuss more reasons shortly.
On the flip side:
Sharon is an E5 in the Army, coming up on her 14th year of active duty service.
She’s single. She loves her military life. She loves her job.
Unfortunately, it has become clear that she will not be eligible for promotion and therefore is being forced to separate from the military because she’s reaching RCP.
As in Sharon’s case, being forced to separate doesn’t always mean that disciplinary actions have been taken.
