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Ar 135-178 Enlisted Administrative Separations
Ar 135-178 Enlisted Administrative Separations
Enlisted
Administrative
Separations
Headquarters
Department of the Army
Washington, DC
13 March 2007
UNCLASSIFIED
SUMMARY of CHANGE
AR 135–178
Enlisted Administrative Separations
o Changes the terms “drug and alcohol abuse" and "drug or alcohol abuse" to
"substance abuse" (chap 11).
o Makes changes to align with AR 600-85, which specifies that any Soldier who
abuses illegal drugs must be processed for administrative separation.
o Modifies paragraphs 2-9c, 3-14, 12-1, and 15-9.
o Updates acronym for the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-1 from DCSPER, G-1 to DCS, G-1
throughout the regulation.
o Changes mental status evaluation to better comply with DOD guidance. Mental
status evaluation is required for Soldiers being processed for separation
under chapter 6, paragraph 6-7b and chapter 10.
o Requires that a Soldier who has completed 18, but fewer than 20 years of
qualifying service for retired pay (10 U.S. Code 12732) will not be
involuntarily separated without the approval of the Secretary of the Army or
his designated representative. Cases involving voluntary separation of
Soldiers in this category will not be referred to HQDA for approval. (para 1-
11)
the Active Army, the Army National This regulation contains management con-
Guard/Army National Guard of the United trol provisions and identifies key manage-
States, and the U.S. Army Reserve, unless ment controls that must be evaluated.
otherwise stated. During mobilization, the
proponent may modify chapters and poli- Supplementation. Supplementation of
cies contained in this regulation. this regulation and establishment of com-
mand and local forms are prohibited with-
Proponent and exception authority.
The proponent of this regulation is the out prior approval from the Deputy Chief
Deputy Chief of Staff, G–1. The propo- of Staff, G–1, ATTN: DAPE–MP, 300
nent has the authority to approve excep- Army Pentagon, Washington, DC
tions or waivers to this regulation that are 20310–0300.
consistent with controlling law and regu-
Suggested improvements. Users are
lations. The proponent may delegate this
approval authority, in writing, to a divi- invited to send comments and suggested
sion chief within the proponent agency or improvements on DA Form 2028 (Recom-
its direct reporting unit or field operating mended Changes to Publications and
History. This publication is an agency, in the grade of colonel or the Blank Forms) directly to HQDA, DCS,
administrative revision. The portions civilian equivalent. Activities may request G–1, ATTN: DAPE–MPE–IP, 300 Army
affected by this administrative revision are a waiver to this regulation by providing Pentagon, Washington, DC 20310–0300.
listed in the summary of change. justification that includes a full analysis of
the expected benefits and must include Distribution. This publication is availa-
Summary. This regulation establishes ble in electronic media only and is in-
policies, standards, and procedures gover- formal review by the activity’s senior
legal officer. All waiver requests will be tended for command level B for the
ning the administrative separation of cer-
endorsed by the commander or senior Active Army and A for the Army Na-
tain enlisted Soldiers of the Army
National Guard of the United States and leader of the requesting activity and for- tional Guard of the United States and the
the United States Army Reserve as di- warded through their higher headquarters U.S. Army Reserve.
rected by Department of Defense Direc- to the policy proponent. Refer to AR
tive 1332.14, December 1993 Subject: 25–30 for specific guidance.
Enlisted Administrative Separations. Army management control process.
Applicability. This regulation applies to
Chapter 1
General Provisions, page 1
Section I
General, page 1
Purpose • 1–1, page 1
References • 1–2, page 1
Explanation of abbreviations and terms • 1–3, page 1
Responsibilities • 1–4, page 1
Statutory authority • 1–5, page 2
Separation processing goals • 1–6, page 2
DA Form 5138 (Separation Action Control Sheet) • 1–7, page 2
Medical processing and evaluation • 1–8, page 2
UNCLASSIFIED
Contents—Continued
Section II
Authority to Order and Accomplish Separation, page 4
Authority to order separation prior to expiration of service obligation • 1–10, page 4
Authority to order separation of Soldiers having more than 18 but fewer than 20 years of qualifying service for
retired pay • 1–11, page 4
Referrals to HQDA • 1–12, page 4
Authority to convene administrative separation boards for non-unit Soldiers • 1–13, page 5
Actions required of commanders having separation authority regarding Soldiers’ incentives and entitlements • 1–14,
page 5
Section III
Instruction in Benefits of an Honorable Characterization of Service on Discharge, page 5
Purpose of instruction • 1–15, page 5
Presentation of instruction • 1–16, page 5
Contents of instruction • 1–17, page 5
Applicability and time of instruction • 1–18, page 5
Recording • 1–19, page 6
Section IV
Bars to Reenlistment, page 6
General • 1–20, page 6
Discharge initiation and processing • 1–21, page 6
Section V
Mobilization Asset Transfer Program, page 6
Policy • 1–22, page 6
Eligibility for the MATP • 1–23, page 6
Ineligible for the Mobilization Asset Transfer Program • 1–24, page 7
Separation authority determination of mobilization potential • 1–25, page 7
Requirements on retention, transfer, or reassignment to the individual ready reserve • 1–26, page 7
Chapter 2
Guidelines on Separation and Characterization, page 10
Section I
Separation, page 10
Scope • 2–1, page 10
Guidance • 2–2, page 10
Limitations on separation actions • 2–3, page 11
Counseling and rehabilitation • 2–4, page 11
Section II
Suspension of Separation, page 12
Suspension • 2–5, page 12
Action during the period of suspension • 2–6, page 12
Section III
Characterization or Description of Service on Separation, page 12
Types of characterization or description • 2–7, page 12
General considerations • 2–8, page 13
Characterization of service • 2–9, page 13
Limitation on characterization of service • 2–10, page 14
Separation where service is uncharacterized • 2–11, page 15
Section IV
Discharge Policy, page 15
Separation counseling for Soldiers being discharged • 2–12, page 15
Orders • 2–13, page 16
Discharge before expiration of the service obligation • 2–14, page 16
Discharge after expiration of the service obligation • 2–15, page 16
Effective date of discharge • 2–16, page 16
Notification of discharge • 2–17, page 16
Notification of discharge of a Soldier who cannot be located or is absent in the hands of civil authorities • 2–18,
page 17
Certificates • 2–19, page 17
Preparation of certificates • 2–20, page 17
Amendments and corrections to certificates • 2–21, page 17
Chapter 3
Guidelines for Separation, page 18
Section I
Application, page 18
Scope • 3–1, page 18
Guidance • 3–2, page 18
Counsel for respondent • 3–3, page 18
Section II
Separation Using the Notification Procedure, page 18
Notice under the Notification Procedure • 3–4, page 18
Additional notice requirements • 3–5, page 19
Response • 3–6, page 19
The initiating commander’s report to the separation authority • 3–7, page 20
Action by intermediate commanders • 3–8, page 20
Action by separation authority • 3–9, page 20
Section III
Separation Using The Administrative Board Procedure, page 20
Notice under the Administrative Board Procedure • 3–10, page 20
Additional notice requirements • 3–11, page 21
Response • 3–12, page 21
The initiating commander’s report to the separation authority • 3–13, page 22
Action by intermediate commanders • 3–14, page 22
Waiver • 3–15, page 22
Action by the separation authority on commander’s recommendation • 3–16, page 22
Hearing requirements • 3–17, page 23
Action by separation authority on board recommendations • 3–18, page 25
Disposition of proceedings • 3–19, page 26
Errors and discrepancies noted before accomplishing separation • 3–20, page 26
Disposition of the case file • 3–21, page 26
Section IV
Additional Provisions Concerning Soldiers Confined by Civil Authorities, page 26
Proceedings when Soldier is confined by civil authorities • 3–22, page 26
Notification requirements • 3–23, page 26
Chapter 4
Expiration of Service Obligation, page 60
Basis • 4–1, page 60
The MSO • 4–2, page 60
Chapter 5
Selected Changes in Service Obligations, page 61
Basis • 5–1, page 61
Reduction in authorized strength of the USAR or ARNGUS • 5–2, page 61
Discharge for immediate reenlistment • 5–3, page 61
Discharge on enlistment in another component of the U.S. Armed Forces • 5–4, page 61
Discharge on appointment as a commissioned or warrant officer • 5–5, page 62
Separation of cadets on disenrollment from the Senior ROTC or an ROTC Scholarship Program • 5–6, page 62
ROTC cadet early release • 5–7, page 63
Discharge of a potential ROTC/SMP participant • 5–8, page 63
Chapter 6
Convenience of the Government, page 63
Basis • 6–1, page 63
Dependency or hardship • 6–2, page 63
Pregnancy • 6–3, page 64
Surviving sons or daughters • 6–4, page 65
Involuntary separation due to parenthood • 6–5, page 66
Not medically qualified under procurement medical fitness standards • 6–6, page 66
Other designated physical or mental conditions • 6–7, page 66
Characterization of service • 6–8, page 67
Procedures • 6–9, page 67
Separation authority • 6–10, page 67
Chapter 7
Defective Enlistments and Reenlistments, page 67
Minority enlistments • 7–1, page 67
Erroneous enlistment, reenlistment, and extension • 7–2, page 67
Defective enlistments or reenlistments • 7–3, page 68
Fraudulent enlistments or reenlistments • 7–4, page 69
Chapter 8
Entry Level Performance and Conduct, page 70
Basis • 8–1, page 70
Counseling and rehabilitation • 8–2, page 70
Characterization and description • 8–3, page 70
Procedures • 8–4, page 70
Separation authority • 8–5, page 70
Chapter 9
Unsatisfactory Performance, page 70
Basis • 9–1, page 70
Criteria • 9–2, page 71
Counseling and rehabilitation • 9–3, page 71
Suspension of favorable personnel action • 9–4, page 71
Medical processing and evaluation • 9–5, page 71
Characterization of service • 9–6, page 71
Procedures • 9–7, page 71
Separation authority • 9–8, page 71
Chapter 10
Homosexual Conduct, page 71
Section I
Policy, page 72
General policy • 10–1, page 72
Discharge policy • 10–2, page 72
Criteria for discharge • 10–3, page 72
Characterization or description of service • 10–4, page 73
Separation authority • 10–5, page 73
Section II
Procedures, page 73
Action by unit or immediate commander • 10–6, page 73
Action by intermediate commanders • 10–7, page 73
Action by separation authority • 10–8, page 73
Administrative separation board • 10–9, page 74
Separation authority action after board hearings • 10–10, page 74
Chapter 11
Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Failure, page 74
Basis • 11–1, page 74
Characterization or description • 11–2, page 74
Procedures • 11–3, page 75
Separation authority • 11–4, page 75
Chapter 12
Misconduct, page 75
Basis • 12–1, page 75
Conviction by civil court • 12–2, page 75
Procedures for civil court cases in foreign countries • 12–3, page 76
Related separations • 12–4, page 77
Counseling and rehabilitation • 12–5, page 77
Suspension of favorable personnel action • 12–6, page 77
Medical processing and evaluation • 12–7, page 77
Characterization of service • 12–8, page 77
Procedures • 12–9, page 77
Separation authority • 12–10, page 77
Chapter 13
Unsatisfactory Participation in the Ready Reserve, page 77
Basis • 13–1, page 77
Suspension of favorable personnel action • 13–2, page 78
Characterization of service • 13–3, page 78
Procedures • 13–4, page 78
Separation authority • 13–5, page 78
Chapter 14
Secretarial Plenary Authority, page 78
Basis • 14–1, page 78
Characterization of service • 14–2, page 78
Procedures • 14–3, page 78
Chapter 15
Separation for Other Reasons, page 79
Section I
Reasons for Separation, page 79
Basis • 15–1, page 79
Characterization of service • 15–2, page 80
Procedures • 15–3, page 80
Separation authority • 15–4, page 80
Section II
Separation from the Delayed Entry Program, page 80
Basis • 15–5, page 80
Characterization or description • 15–6, page 80
Procedures • 15–7, page 81
Separation authority • 15–8, page 81
Section III
Dropping from the Rolls, page 81
Sentenced to imprisonment (10 USC 12684(3)) • 15–9, page 81
Characterization of service • 15–10, page 81
Procedures • 15–11, page 81
Separation authority • 15–12, page 81
Chapter 16
Failure to Meet Army Body Composition Standards, page 81
Applicability • 16–1, page 81
Basis • 16–2, page 82
Counseling and rehabilitation • 16–3, page 82
Medical processing and evaluation • 16–4, page 82
Characterization or description • 16–5, page 82
Separation authority • 16–6, page 82
Appendixes
A. References, page 83
B. Management Control Evaluation Checklist, page 88
Figure List
Figure 3–2: Format for Soldier’s response by endorsement to notification of separation proceedings when the
Notification Procedure is used—Continued, page 38
Figure 3–3: Format for commanding officer’s report to the separation authority, page 39
Figure 3–3: Format for commanding officer’s report to the separation authority—Continued, page 40
Figure 3–3: Format for commanding officer’s report to the separation authority—Continued, page 41
Figure 3–3: Format for commanding officer’s report to the separation authority—Continued, page 42
Figure 3–3: Format for commanding officer’s report to the separation authority—Continued, page 43
Figure 3–4: Format for notification of separation proceedings when the Administrative Board Procedure is used,
page 44
Figure 3–4: Format for notification of separation proceedings when the Administrative Board Procedure is used—
Continued, page 45
Figure 3–4: Format for notification of separation proceedings when the Administrative Board Procedure is used—
Continued, page 46
Figure 3–4: Format for notification of separation proceedings when the Administrative Board Procedure is used—
Continued, page 47
Figure 3–4: Format for notification of separation proceedings when the Administrative Board Procedure is used—
Continued, page 48
Figure 3–4: Format for notification of separation proceedings when the Administrative Board Procedure is used—
Continued, page 49
Figure 3–5: Format for Soldier’s response by endorsement to notification of separation proceedings when the
Administrative Board Procedure is used, page 50
Figure 3–5: Format for Soldier’s response by endorsement to notification of separation proceedings when the
Administrative Board Procedure is used—Continued, page 51
Figure 3–5: Format for Soldier’s response by endorsement to notification of separation proceedings when the
Administrative Board Procedure is used—Continued, page 52
Figure 3–5: Format for Soldier’s response by endorsement to notification of separation proceedings when the
Administrative Board Procedure is used—Continued, page 53
Figure 3–5: Format for Soldier’s response by endorsement to notification of separation proceedings when the
Administrative Board Procedure is used—Continued, page 54
Figure 3–5: Format for Soldier’s response by endorsement to notification of separation proceedings when the
Administrative Board Procedure is used—Continued, page 55
Figure 3–6: Format of request for conditional waiver of administrative board proceedings, page 56
Figure 3–6: Format of request for conditional waiver of administrative board proceedings—Continued, page 57
Figure 3–6: Format of request for conditional waiver of administrative board proceedings—Continued, page 58
Figure 3–6: Format of request for conditional waiver of administrative board proceedings—Continued, page 59
Glossary
Section I
General
1–1. Purpose
a. This regulation sets policies, standards, and procedures to ensure the readiness and competency of the U.S. Army
while providing for the orderly administrative separation of Army National Guard of the United States (ARNGUS) and
U.S. Army Reserve (USAR) enlisted Soldiers for a variety of reasons. Readiness is promoted by maintaining high
standards of conduct and performance. The separation policies in this regulation promote the readiness of the Army by
providing an orderly means to—
(1) Judge the suitability of persons to serve in the Army on the basis of their conduct and their ability to meet
required standards of duty performance and discipline.
(2) Maintain standards of performance and conduct through characterization of service in a system that emphasizes
the importance of honorable service.
(3) Achieve authorized force levels and grade distribution.
(4) Provide for the orderly administrative separation of enlisted Soldiers in a variety of circumstances.
b. Department of the Army separation policy is designed to strengthen the concept that military service is a calling
different from any civilian occupation.
(1) The acquisition of military status involves a commitment to the United States, the Army, fellow citizens, and
Soldiers to successfully complete a period of obligated service. Early separation for failure to meet required standards
of performance or conduct represents a failure to fulfill that commitment.
(2) Millions of Americans from diverse backgrounds and with a wide variety of aptitudes and attitudes upon
entering military service have served successfully in the Reserve Components of the Army. It is the policy of the
Department of the Army to provide Soldiers with the training, motivation, and professional leadership that inspires the
dedicated Soldier to emulate their predecessors and peers in meeting required standards of performance and conduct.
(3) The Army makes a substantial investment in training, time, equipment, and related expenses when persons enter
into military service. Separation prior to completion of an obligated period of service is wasteful because it results in
loss of this investment and generates a requirement for increased accessions. Consequently, attrition is an issue of
significant concern at all levels of responsibility within the Reserve Components of the Army. Reasonable efforts
should be made to identify Soldiers who are likely to be separated early, and to improve their chances for retention
through counseling, retraining, and rehabilitation prior to initiation of separation proceedings. Soldiers who do not
conform to required standards of conduct and performance and Soldiers who do not demonstrate potential for further
military service should be separated to avoid the high costs of continued service in terms of pay, administrative efforts,
degradation of morale, and substandard mission performance.
c. This regulation provides—
(1) The authority for separation of Soldiers upon expiration of their military service obligation (MSO).
(2) The authority and general provisions governing the separation of Soldiers before the expiration of their service
obligation to meet the needs of the Reserve components of the Army and its Soldiers.
(3) The criteria for characterizing or describing military service as being honorable, general (under honorable
conditions), or under other than honorable conditions, and when the service is not characterized.
1–2. References
Required and related publications and prescribed and referenced forms are listed in appendix A.
1–4. Responsibilities
a. The Deputy Chief of Staff, G-1 (DCS, G-1) has Army General Staff responsibility for the enlisted separation
program.
b. The Chief, National Guard Bureau (CNGB) has special staff responsibility for ARNGUS Soldiers. The CNGB
will monitor the Army National Guard (ARNG) enlisted separations process.
c. The Chief, Army Reserve (CAR) has special staff responsibility for USAR Soldiers. The CAR will monitor the
USAR enlisted separations process.
d. With respect to reserve enlisted Soldiers under their respective commands, the Commander, U.S. Army Human
Resources Command (HRC), St. Louis Area Commanders, Commander, Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC)
Cadet Command, Commander, U.S. Army Human Resources Command (AHRC-OPD-R), Commander, U.S. Army
Aviation Center and Fort Rucker, Commander, U.S. Army Reserve Readiness Training Center, and Commanding
Section II
Authority to Order and Accomplish Separation
1–11. Authority to order separation of Soldiers having more than 18 but fewer than 20 years of
qualifying service for retired pay
a. A Soldier having completed 18 but fewer than 20 years of qualifying service for retired pay (Title 10, Section
12732, United States Code (10 USC 12732)) will not be involuntarily separated without the approval of the Secretary
of the Army or his designated representative. All recommendations for involuntary separation of Soldiers in this
category will be sent to HQDA (para 1-12) for consideration.
b. Cases involving voluntary separation at the request of the Soldier need not be referred to HQDA for approval.
1–14. Actions required of commanders having separation authority regarding Soldiers’ incentives
and entitlements
Incentives and entitlements for Reserve membership and participation are prescribed by AR 135-7. Under certain
conditions, separation will terminate payment of an incentive and entitlement to a Soldier and may also result in a
collection of overpayment or recoupment action from the Soldier. In all cases of voluntary or involuntary separations,
commanders will—
a. Determine a Soldier’s entitlements, if any, in accordance with AR 135-7.
b. Initiate termination and recoupment actions where required and/or appropriate.
Section III
Instruction in Benefits of an Honorable Characterization of Service on Discharge
1–19. Recording
The DA Form 2-1 (Personnel Qualification Record—Part II) of each Soldier receiving instructions in the benefits of
receiving an honorable characterization of service on discharge during the annual orientation (para 1-18b) will be
annotated in item 19 (Specialized Training) as follows: “Bfts of Hon Disch (date).”
Section IV
Bars to Reenlistment
1–20. General
As set forth in paragraph 1-21 below, commanders will initiate discharge proceedings against Soldiers who have
received a local bar to reenlistment in accordance with AR 140-111, chapter 1, or NGR 600-200, chapter 7. Discharge
action is not based on the imposition of a bar to reenlistment, but rather on the conduct which forms the basis(es) for
the bar.
Section V
Mobilization Asset Transfer Program
1–22. Policy
a. The purpose of the Mobilization Asset Transfer Program (MATP) is to ensure sufficient trained manpower is
available in the IRR of the USAR to meet the Army’s personnel requirements under conditions of full mobilization (10
USC 12301(a)). To retain mobilization assets, eligible and qualified Soldiers who have a remaining statutory or
contractual MSO (para 4-2) are in, or transferred or reassigned, to the IRR to complete their statutory or contractual
MSO, whichever expires later. Soldiers who are not retained, transferred, or reassigned to the IRR under the separation
procedures prescribed by this regulation will be discharged from the military service.
b. This section and the MATP applies only to ARNGUS and USAR Soldiers who are subject to separation
processing under this regulation or for the reasons in NGR 600-200 corresponding to the reasons listed below and who
meet the eligibility criteria listed in paragraph 1-23, below.
(1) Disenrollment from Senior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (SROTC) or an ROTC Scholarship Program (para
5-6).
(2) ROTC cadet early release (para 5-7b).
(3) Pregnancy (para 6-3).
(4) Entry level performance and conduct (chap 8).
(5) Unsatisfactory participation (chap 13).
(6) Secretarial plenary authority (chap 14), as determined by HQDA.
(7) Failure to meet body composition standards (chap 16).
c. The provisions of this section are not applicable to Soldiers being processed for separation under this regulation
for reasons other than those shown in b, above.
Section I
Separation
2–1. Scope
This chapter provides general guidance, which applies when referenced under the reasons for separation in this
regulation. Further guidance is set forth under the specific reasons for separation in chapters 4 through 16.
2–2. Guidance
a. There is a substantial investment in the training of Soldiers enlisted in the Army. As a general matter, reasonable
efforts at rehabilitation should be made prior to initiation of separation proceedings.
b. Unless separation is mandatory, the potential for rehabilitation and further useful military service, will be
considered by the separation authority, and where applicable, the administrative separation board. If separation is
warranted despite the potential for rehabilitation, consideration should be given to suspension of the separation, if
authorized.
c. Counseling and rehabilitative efforts are a prerequisite to initiation of separation proceedings only insofar as
expressly set forth under the specific requirements for the separation. An alleged or established inadequacy in previous
rehabilitation efforts does not bar separation.
d. The following factors may be considered on the issue of retention or separation, depending on the circumstances
of the case:
(1) The seriousness of the circumstances forming the basis for initiation of separation proceedings, and the effect of
the Soldier’s continued retention on military discipline, good order, and morale.
(2) The likelihood of continuation or recurrence of the circumstances forming the basis for initiation of separation
proceedings.
(3) The likelihood that the Soldier will be a disruptive or undesirable influence in present or future duty
assignments.
(4) The ability of the Soldier to perform duties effectively in the present and in the future, including potential for
advancement or leadership.
(5) The Soldier’s rehabilitative potential.
(6) The Soldier’s entire military record. This includes—
(a) Past contributions to the Army, assignments, awards and decorations, evaluation ratings, and letters of
commendation.
(b) Memorandum of reprimand or admonition, counseling records, records of nonjudicial punishment, records of
conviction by court-martial and records of involvement with civilian authorities.
(c) Any other matter deemed relevant by the board or the separation authority. This may include specialized
training, duties, and experience of persons entrusted by this regulation with making recommendations or decisions on
separation or retention.
(d) Adverse information from a prior enlistment or period of military service only when such information would
have a direct and strong probative value in determining whether separation is appropriate. This would include records
of nonjudicial punishment and convictions by court-martial. Such information ordinarily will be used only in those
cases involving conduct repeated over an extended time or in cases resulting from a bar to reenlistment. In unusual
situations, conduct from a prior enlistment that does not constitute a pattern of conduct that is manifested over an
extended period of time, may be considered in determining whether retention or separation is warranted. An example is
where a single incident of misconduct occurring in the prior period of service, by itself, warrants separation and the
officials in the Soldier’s chain of command neither knew, nor reasonably should have known, of the conduct at the
time the Soldier reenlisted.
(e) Isolated incidents and events that are remote in time normally have little probative value in determining whether
administrative separation should be effected.
(f) Criminal history information from personnel security investigative (PSI) reports requested within the first 90 days
of a Soldier’s initial enlistment may be used to support separation proceedings initiated under chapter 7 (Fraudulent
Enlistment and Fraudulent Entry). Use of PSI reports in connection with all other separation proceedings is prohibited
unless specific authorization is granted in accordance with AR 380-67, paragraph 10-100. Requests for such authoriza-
tion may be submitted case by case through command channels to HQDA, ARNGUS, NGR-ARP/OCAR, DAAR (para
1-12).
Section II
Suspension of Separation
2–5. Suspension
a. In order to afford a highly deserving Soldier a probationary period to demonstrate successful rehabilitation prior
to expiration of the Soldier’s service obligation, the separation authority or a higher authority may suspend execution of
an approved separation for a period not to exceed 12 months. However:
(1) Suspension of a discharge is not authorized in a case where there is an approved finding that one or more of the
circumstances authorizing discharge for homosexual conduct under paragraph 10-3 has occurred, or when the sole
reason for separation is fraudulent entry; or
(2) When there are approved reasons for separation in addition to fraudulent entry, suspension may be authorized
only when the additional reason is not homosexual conduct, a waiver of the fraudulent entry is obtained, and the
suspension pertains to reasons for separation other than the fraudulent entry.
b. During the period of suspension, the Soldier will be afforded an opportunity to demonstrate the capability of
behaving properly and performing assigned duties efficiently under varying conditions.
c. On satisfactory completion of the probationary period, or earlier, if rehabilitation has been achieved, or at the end
of the Soldier’s period of obligated service, the authority that suspended the separation will remit execution of the
approved separation.
Section III
Characterization or Description of Service on Separation
Section IV
Discharge Policy
2–13. Orders
a. The following order formats prescribed by AR 600-8-105 will be used for separations processed under this
regulation:
(1) Order Format 500 where discharge is directed in accordance with this regulation, to include expiration of the
service obligation and immediate reenlistment.
(2) Order Format 502 where ROTC cadets are discharged to accept a commission.
(3) Order Format 505 where a Soldier is released from the custody and control of the Army.
(4) Order Format 540 where a Soldier is dropped from the rolls.
b. Once a Soldier receives his or her orders, by actual or constructive delivery, such orders may not be revoked
except in one or more the following circumstances:
(1) The orders are revoked by proper authority, either orally or in writing, prior to the effective date of the
discharge. Orally revoked orders should be documented in writing within 30 days of the revocation.
(2) When one or more of the exceptions to the doctrine of administrative finality exist (that is, fraud; mistake of
law; mathematical miscalculation; and/or substantial new evidence discovered contemporaneously within a short time
following the action).
c. After the effective date of discharge, orders may be amended by the separation authority only to correct
administrative errors, such as errors concerning grade, Social Security number, or misspelled name.
2–18. Notification of discharge of a Soldier who cannot be located or is absent in the hands of civil
authorities
When discharge has been ordered by the separation authority and the Soldier can not be located or is absent in the
hands of civil authorities subsequent to the issuance of the discharge orders, the discharge may be executed regardless
of absence. The notification procedure in paragraph 2-17 is applicable.
2–19. Certificates
a. Discharge certificates will be furnished to Soldiers when they are honorably discharged. The discharge certificate
is Department of Defense (DD) Form 256A (Honorable Discharge Certificate).
b. Discharge certificates will not be issued under the following conditions:
(1) Where service is characterized as under honorable conditions (General) or under other than honorable conditions.
(2) Where the service is uncharacterized.
(3) On discharge for immediate reenlistment.
(4) On discharge from a cadet status on appointment as an officer or warrant officer.
Chapter 3
Guidelines for Separation
Section I
Application
3–1. Scope
The procedures in this chapter are applicable only when required under a specific reason for separation cited in this
regulation. These actions are subject to the requirements set forth in the specific reason for separation.
3–2. Guidance
When a Soldier is processed on the basis of multiple reasons for separation, the following guidelines apply to
procedural requirements (including procedural limitations on characterization or description of service):
a. The basis for each reason must be clearly established.
b. If a reason for separation set forth in the notice of proposed action requires processing under the Administrative
Board Procedure, the entire matter will be processed under section III, of this chapter.
c. When there is any other clear conflict between a specific requirement applicable to one reason and a general
requirement applicable to another reason, the specific requirement will be applied.
d. If a conflict in procedures cannot be resolved on the basis of the foregoing principles, the procedure most
favorable to the Soldier will be used.
Section II
Separation Using the Notification Procedure
3–6. Response
The Soldier will be provided a reasonable period of time (not fewer than 30 calendar days) to respond by endorsement
to the notification memorandum (fig 3-2). An extension may be granted on a timely showing of good cause by the
Soldier. An extension will normally be granted until any documents requested by the Soldier pursuant to paragraph 3-
4a(4) are provided to the Soldier and the Soldier has a reasonable opportunity to respond to such documents. The
decision of the Soldier on each of the rights set forth in paragraphs 3-4a(4) through (7), and applicable provisions
referenced in paragraph 3-5, will be recorded and signed by the Soldier and counsel (fig 3-2), subject to the following
limitations:
a. If the Soldier elects to exercise his or her right to a hearing before an administrative board (para 3-4a(7)), then
the entire matter will be processed under the Administrative Board Procedure (sec III, below) commencing with
paragraph 3-13. (Compliance with paras 3-10, 3-11, and 3-12 is not required in this situation.)
Section III
Separation Using The Administrative Board Procedure
3–12. Response
The Soldier will be provided a reasonable period of time (not fewer than 30 calendar days) to respond by endorsement
to the notification memorandum (fig 3-5). An extension may be granted on a timely showing of good cause by the
Soldier. An extension will normally be granted until any documents requested by the Soldier pursuant to paragraph 3-
10a(5) are provided to the Soldier and the Soldier has a reasonable opportunity to respond to such documents. The
decision of the Soldier on each of the rights set forth in paragraphs 3-10a(1) through (10), and applicable provisions
referenced in paragraph 3-11, will be recorded and signed by the Soldier and counsel (fig 3-5), subject to the following
limitations:
a. If the notification memorandum (fig 3-4) was mailed in accordance with paragraph 3-10b and the Soldier fails to
3–15. Waiver
a. When a Soldier waives his or her right to a hearing before an administrative board, then the entire matter will be
processed under the Notification Procedure (sec II, above) commencing with paragraph 3-7. (Compliance with paras 3-
4, 3-5, and 3-6 is not required in this situation.) However, the separation authority will be a general officer cited in
paragraphs 1-10a or b.
b. A Soldier entitled to an Administrative Board may submit a conditional waiver to a hearing by a board after a
reasonable opportunity to consult with counsel under paragraph 3-10a(11). (The memorandum format in fig 3-6 will be
used for this purpose.) The conditional waiver (fig 3-6) is a memorandum submitted by a Soldier waiving the right to a
hearing by a board on the condition characterization of service on separation will be higher than the least favorable
characterization or description of service authorized for the basis of the separation reason listed in the notification
memorandum (fig 3-4). The separation authority will be the same as if the Soldier had not submitted the conditional
waiver.
(1) The separation authority may approve or disapprove the conditional waiver. If the conditional waiver is
disapproved, the case will be referred to a hearing before an Administrative Board unless there is a subsequent
unconditional waiver of a right to a hearing before an administrative separation board under paragraphs 3-4a(7) and 3-
10a(6).
(2) There is no requirement to delay board proceedings pending action by the separation authority on the conditional
waiver. However, once the board has made its findings and recommendations, the convening authority may not
approve the conditional waiver.
c. Waivers of the board hearings and the right to representation by counsel at board hearings will not be accepted in
the cases of Soldiers who have completed 18 but fewer than 20 years of qualifying service for retired pay.
Section IV
Additional Provisions Concerning Soldiers Confined by Civil Authorities
Chapter 5
Selected Changes in Service Obligations
5–1. Basis
A Soldier may be separated on the basis of a reason set forth in this chapter. The separation actions and the
characterization of service are as prescribed for the reason for separation.
5–6. Separation of cadets on disenrollment from the Senior ROTC or an ROTC Scholarship Program
a. Disenrollment. ROTC cadets enrolled in the SROTC Advanced Course or an ROTC Scholarship Program are
assigned members of (Control Group ROTC) (AR 140-1) of the IRR, unless they are participating in the ROTC/
Simultaneous Membership Program (ROTC/SMP) in accordance with AR 601-210, chapter 10, or NGR 600-200. The
disposition of a cadet who is disenrolled from the ROTC Program is prescribed by AR 145-1, chapter 3, section VI,
and AR 135-91, paragraph 3-12.
b. Disposition. The separation authority may order that a cadet be—
(1) Discharged from the USAR citing this paragraph as the authority; or
(2) Retained in the IRR under the MATP in accordance with chapter 1, section V.
c. Characterization of service. The service of cadets discharged or retained under the provisions of this paragraph
will be described as uncharacterized.
d. Procedures.
(1) The procedures for separation of cadets under this paragraph will be governed by AR 135-91, paragraph 3-12,
and AR 145-1, chapter 3, section VI.
(2) The notification procedures of chapter 3 of this regulation are not applicable to separations under this paragraph.
(3) The MATP policy prescribed by chapter 1, section V, will govern whether the cadet is eligible to be retained in
the IRR and assigned to Control Group (Annual Training) or (Reinforcement).
e. Separation authority. The authorities cited in paragraph 1-10b(4) are authorized to order the separation of cadets
under this paragraph.
Chapter 6
Convenience of the Government
6–1. Basis
A Soldier may be separated for the convenience of the Government on the basis of the reasons set forth in this chapter.
6–3. Pregnancy
When it has been determined that a Soldier was pregnant at the time of her enlistment, she will be processed in
6–9. Procedures
a. For separations under paragraphs 6-2, 6-3, and 6-4, prior to characterization of service of general (under
honorable conditions), the Soldier will be notified of the specific factors in the service record that warrant such a
characterization, and the Notification Procedure (chap 3, section II) will be used.
b. For separations under paragraphs 6-5, 6-6, and 6-7, the Notification Procedure (chap 3, section II) will be used.
c. For separation under paragraph 6-3 the MATP policy prescribed by chapter 1, section V, will govern whether the
Soldier will be discharged from the Army, or retained in, or transferred/reassigned to the IRR.
Chapter 7
Defective Enlistments and Reenlistments
7–1. Minority enlistments
a. Basis
(1) Under age 17. A minor under 17 years of age is barred from entering into a valid enlistment. The enlistment is
void in the case of a minor who was under 17 years of age at date of enlistment and who has not attained the age of 17
on receipt of satisfactory evidence of the date of his or her birth.
(2) Age 17. Except when retained for the purpose of trial by court-martial, the Soldier will be separated in the
following circumstances:
(a) There is satisfactory evidence that the Soldier is under 18 years of age, and
(b) The Soldier enlisted without the written consent of his or her parent or guardian; and
(c) An application for the Soldier’s separation has been submitted to the Soldier’s command by the parent or
guardian within 90 days of the Soldier’s enlistment.
b. Description of separation.
(1) A Soldier separated under a(1) above will receive an order of release from the custody and control of the Army
(by reason of void enlistment) (Orders Format 505, AR 600-8-105).
(2) The separation of a Soldier under a(2) above will be described as an entry level separation and the service will
be uncharacterized.
c. Procedure. The Notification Procedure (chap 3, sec II) will be used.
d. Separation authority. The authorities cited in paragraph 1-10 may order separation under this paragraph.
Chapter 8
Entry Level Performance and Conduct
8–1. Basis
a. A Soldier may be separated under this chapter if he or she is notified of the initiation of separation proceedings
while in an entry level status (see glossary) when it is determined under the guidance set forth in chapter 2, section I,
that the Soldier is unqualified for further military service by reason of unsatisfactory performance or conduct (or both),
as evidenced by inability, lack of reasonable effort, failure to adapt to the military environment or minor disciplinary
infractions.
b. When separation of a Soldier in entry level status is warranted by unsatisfactory performance or minor discipli-
nary infractions (or both), the Soldier normally will be separated in accordance with this chapter. Nothing in this
chapter prevents separation under another provision of this regulation when such is warranted.
8–4. Procedures
a. The Notification Procedure (chap 3, sec II) will be used.
b. The MATP policy prescribed by chapter 1, section V, will govern whether the Soldier will be discharged, or
transferred to the IRR.
Chapter 9
Unsatisfactory Performance
9–1. Basis
A Soldier may be discharged when it is determined under the guidance set forth in chapter 2, section I, the Soldier is
unqualified for further military service by reason of unsatisfactory performance.
9–7. Procedures
a. The Notification Procedure (chap 3, sec II) will be used, except under bbelow.
b. The Administrative Board Procedure (chap 3, sec III) will be used if the Soldier has 18 but fewer than 20 years of
qualifying service for retired pay.
Section I
Policy
Section II
Procedures
Chapter 11
Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Failure
11–1. Basis
a. Initiation of discharge proceedings is required in the case of a Soldier who has been referred to a program of
rehabilitation for personal substance abuse under the provisions of AR 600-85 and who fails through inability or refusal
to participate in, cooperate in, or successfully complete the program in the following circumstances:
(1) There is a lack of potential for continued military service; or
(2) Long-term rehabilitation in a civilian medical facility is determined necessary.
b. A Soldier may be discharged when the commander, in consultation with an Army Substance Abuse Program
official (AR 600-85), determines that further rehabilitation efforts are not practical, rendering the Soldier a rehabilita-
tion failure, and discharge is in the best interest of the Army.
c. Nothing in this chapter precludes discharge of a Soldier who has been referred to such a program under any other
provision of this regulation in appropriate cases.
Chapter 12
Misconduct
12–1. Basis
A Soldier may be discharged for misconduct when it is determined under the guidance set forth in chapter 2, section I,
that the Soldier is unqualified for further military service by reason of one or more of the following circumstances.
a. Minor disciplinary infractions. A pattern of misconduct consisting solely of minor disciplinary infractions. If
separation of a Soldier in entry level status is warranted solely by reason of minor disciplinary infractions, the action
will be processed under Entry Level Performance and Conduct (chap 8).
b. A pattern of misconduct. A pattern of misconduct consisting of discreditable involvement with civil or military
authorities or conduct prejudicial to good order and discipline. Discreditable conduct and conduct prejudicial to good
order and discipline include conduct which violates the accepted standards of personal conduct found in the UCMJ,
Army regulations, the civil law, and time-honored customs and traditions of the Army.
c. Commission of a serious offense. Commission of a serious military or civilian offense, if the specific circum-
stances of the offense warrant discharge and a punitive discharge would be authorized for the same or a closely related
offense under the UCMJ.
d. Abuse of illegal drugs. Abuse of illegal drugs is serious misconduct.Discharge action normally will be based upon
commission of a serious offense. However, relevant facts may mitigate the nature of the offense. Therefore, a single
drug abuse offense may be combined with one or more disciplinary infractions or incidents of other misconduct and
processed for discharge under aor babove, as appropriate.
(1) All Soldiers against whom charges will not be referred to a court-martial authorized to impose a punitive
discharge, or against whom separation action will not be initiated in accordance with chapter 11, will be processed for
discharge under a, b, or c above, as applicable.
(2) “Processed for discharge” means that discharge actions will be initiated and processed through the chain of
command to the separation authority for appropriate action.
(3) Voluntary (self) identification/referral in accordance with AR 600-85 does not require initiation of discharge
proceedings under this paragraph.
e. Civil conviction. See paragraph 12-2, below.
12–9. Procedures
a. The Administrative Board Procedure (chap 3, sec III) will be used, except under bbelow.
b. The use of the notification procedure is authorized provided characterization of service under other than honora-
ble conditions is unwarranted.
Chapter 13
Unsatisfactory Participation in the Ready Reserve
13–1. Basis
a. A Soldier is subject to discharge for unsatisfactory participation when it is determined that the Soldier is
unqualified for further military service because:
(1) The Soldier is an unsatisfactory participant as prescribed by AR 135-91, chapter 4; and
(2) Attempts to have the Soldier respond or comply with orders or correspondence have resulted in—
(a) The Soldier’s refusal to comply with orders or correspondence; or
(b) A notice sent by certified mail was refused, unclaimed, or otherwise undeliverable; or
(c) Verification that the Soldier has failed to notify the command of a change of address and reasonable attempts to
contact the Soldier have failed.
b. Discharge action may be taken when the Soldier cannot be located or is absent in the hands of civil authorities in
accordance with the provisions of paragraph 2-18 and chapter 3, section IV.
13–4. Procedures
a. The Administrative Board Procedure (chap 3, sec III) will be used, except under b below.
b. Except for a Soldier who has 18 but fewer than 20 years of qualifying service for retired pay, the use of the
Notification Procedure (chap 3, sec II) is authorized if a characterization of service Under Other Than Honorable
Conditions is not warranted under chapter 2, section III.
c. The MATP policy prescribed by chapter 1, section V, will govern whether the Soldier will be discharged, or
transferred to the IRR.
Chapter 14
Secretarial Plenary Authority
14–1. Basis
a. Separation under this paragraph is the prerogative of the Secretary of the Army. Secretarial plenary separation
authority is exercised sparingly and seldom delegated. Ordinarily, it is used when no other provision of this regulation
applies, and early separation is clearly in the best interests of the Army. Separations under this chapter are effective
only if approved, in writing, by the Secretary of the Army or approved designee as announced in updated memoranda.
b. Secretarial separation authority is normally exercised on a case-by-case basis but may be used for a specific class
or category of Soldiers. When used in the latter circumstance, it is announced by a special HQDA directive that may, if
appropriate, delegate blanket separation authority to field commanders for the class or category of Soldiers concerned.
c. Individual cases that may be submitted to HQDA for consideration of separation under Secretarial plenary
authority include those processed under paragraphs 2-3a, 3-18e, 3-18f(2)(b), and 10-10a(2). Other bases for separation
under this paragraph include, but are not limited to, refusal to submit to medical care (AR 600-20), Human Im-
munodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection (AR 600-110), and when religious practices cannot be accommodated (AR
600–20).
14–3. Procedures
a. Separation under this paragraph may be voluntary or involuntary. When involuntary separation proceedings are
initiated, the Notification Procedure (chap 3, sec II) will be used; however, the provision for requesting an administra-
tive board (para 3-4a(7)) is not applicable. Unless waived by HQDA, medical examinations are required for Soldiers
being processed for involuntary separation (para 1-8a).
e. Blanket or individual requests for separation under this paragraph will be submitted to the authorities cited in
Chapter 15
Separation for Other Reasons
Section I
Reasons for Separation
15–1. Basis
a. Noncitizens. Provided one of the following conditions exists, a noncitizen will be discharged.
(1) At the time of release from active duty, the Soldier fails or refuses to give a permanent mailing address within
the United States or its territories but gives only an address in a foreign country; or
(2) Leaves the United States for permanent residence in a foreign country; or
(3) Visits a foreign country of which the Soldier is a national for a continuous period of 6 months or more.
b. Ministers of religion and divinity students. A Soldier will be discharged, upon request, if he or she is a regular or
ordained minister of religion, or upon entering full-time training to become or to engage in full-time employment as a
regular or duly ordained minister of religion.
(1) A minister of religion is classified as either a duly ordained minister of religion or a regular minister of religion
as follows:
(a) Duly ordained minister of religion. A person who has been ordained in accordance with the ceremonial ritual or
discipline of a church, religious sect, or organization, established on the basis of the community’s doctrine and
practices of a religious character, to teach the doctrines of such church, sect, or organization and to administer the rites
and ceremonies in public worship, and who, as a regular customary vocation, teaches the principles of religion and
administers the ordinances of worship as embodied in the creed or principles of such church, sect, or organization.
(b) Regular minister of religion. A person who as a customary vocation preaches and teaches the principles of the
religion of a church, religious sect, or an organization of which the individual is a member without having been
formally ordained as a minister of religion, but who is recognized by such church, sect, or organization as a regular
minister.
(2) Requests for discharge will be supported by appropriate documentary evidence as follows:
(a) A statement from the appropriate authority of the church, religious sect, or organization that the Soldier has met
the requirements for recognition and has been appointed a regular or duly ordained minister of religion and is
employed full-time in a religious occupation (1) above).
(b) A statement from an appropriate authority of the religious order that as a divinity student the Soldier is fully
qualified and acceptable for further religious training; must be separated from military status for further theological
education or processing into the religious order or organization; and if separated, will be eligible for ordination or
recognition as a minister on or about a specified date.
(c) A statement from the seminary or other educational institution in which the religious training is now or will be
received that the individual is now or will be, concurrent with discharge, a full-time divinity student preparing for the
ministry.
c. Attainment of maximum allowable age. A Soldier who attains age 60 as set forth in AR 140-10, as appropriate,
unless granted a waiver will be discharged or, if eligible and the Soldier applies, be transferred to the Retired Reserve.
The discharge will be effective the last day of the month in which the Soldier attains age 60.
d. Approved exemption from involuntary order to active duty. A Soldier will be discharged when a determination is
made in accordance with AR 601-25 that the Soldier be exempt from reporting for involuntary call to active duty under
emergency or mobilization circumstances.
e. USAR dual status technician. A contractually obligated Soldier who enlisted or reenlisted for permanent employ-
ment under the USAR dual status technician program will, on request, be discharged—
(1) On failure to be employed as a technician.
(2) On separation from employment as a technician.
f. Early discharge of Soldier with a bar to reenlistment. A Soldier may be voluntarily discharged before the
expiration of his or her service obligation when the Soldier has received a locally imposed bar to reenlistment (AR
140-111, chap 1) and the following provisions have been met.
(1) Except when serving under a statutory MSO, a Soldier who perceives that he or she will be unable to overcome
a locally imposed bar to reenlistment may apply for immediate discharge.
15–3. Procedures
Prior to characterization of service of general (under honorable conditions), the Soldier will be notified of the specific
factors in the service record that warrant such a characterization, and the Notification Procedure (chap 3, section II)
will be used.
Section II
Separation from the Delayed Entry Program
15–5. Basis
A Soldier who enlisted in the USAR under the DEP in accordance with AR 601-210, chapter 5, section X, must be
processed for discharge if he or she satisfies the conditions in paragraphs a or b below and may be processed for
discharge if he or she satisfies the conditions in paragraphs c or d below.
a. Upon enlistment in the Regular Army (para 5-4a).
b. On discovery that the USAR enlistment is defective. The Soldier will be processed for separation under para 7-3.
c. The Soldier is found to be ineligible for enlistment in the Regular Army.
d. The Soldier declines enlistment in the Regular Army and is not being ordered to active duty as a Reserve of the
Army (10 USC 12103(b)).
15–7. Procedures
When it is determined that a member of the DEP is unqualified for further military service or has requested separation,
the Commander, U.S. Army Recruiting Battalion, will advise the Soldier, in writing, of the proposed separation and the
reasons using the Notification Procedure (chap 3, sec II).
a. The notification memorandum (fig 3-1) will be presented to the Soldier. If the Soldier cannot be personally
notified, the certified mail procedures in paragraph 3-4b will be applied or an equivalent procedure if such service is
not available by the U.S. mail at an address outside the United States. The notice will inform the Soldier that he or she
must respond by endorsement (fig 3-2) within 30 days from the date of delivery.
b. Insert the following with the member’s original DEP enlistment packet:
(1) A copy of the endorsement (fig 3-2) completed by the Soldier;
(2) A copy of the notification memorandum (fig 3-1) and post office receipt; or
(3) The original notification memorandum (fig 3-1) and envelope marked “unclaimed” or other designation indicat-
ing it was not delivered, and the Affidavit of Service by Mail (fig 1-1).
d. On receipt of the completed endorsement (fig 3-2) from the Soldier, the Commander, U.S. Army Recruiting
Battalion, will make the final determination for retention or separation from the USAR DEP. A careful consideration of
the Soldier’s statement or rebuttal is mandatory.
e. If the Soldier is not approved for retention or fails to respond within 30 days from the date of delivery, the
authorities cited in aabove will process the Soldier for discharge.
f. The discharge order (Format 500) will cite this paragraph and regulation as the authority.
g. On discharge, with the discharge order as the top document, the Soldier’s USAR DEP enlistment packet will be
sent to Director, National Personnel Records Center, ATTN: Accession and Disposal Section, 9700 Page Ave., St.
Louis, MO 63132-5200.
Section III
Dropping from the Rolls
15–11. Procedures
The appropriate separation authority will issue orders dropping the Soldier from the rolls of the Army using order
Format 540 as prescribed in AR 600-8-105. Disposition of personnel records will be accomplished as set forth in AR
600-8-104.
Chapter 16
Failure to Meet Army Body Composition Standards
16–1. Applicability
The applicability for separation processing under this chapter is determined by the following criteria.
16–2. Basis
a. A Soldier is subject to separation for failure to meet the Army body composition standards in accordance with
AR 600-9 when it is determined the Soldier is unqualified for further military service and meets all of the following
conditions:
(1) The Soldier is not diagnosed with a medical condition that precludes participation in the Army weight control
program. A Soldier with a medically diagnosed condition that precludes participation in the Army weight control
program will be processed through medical channels, if appropriate, or under the guidance set forth in paragraph 6-6,
6-7, or 15-1k.
(2) The Soldier fails to meet the Army body composition standards in accordance with AR 600-9 and the sole
reason for separation is failure to meet those standards.
b. Where no medical condition exists, initiation of separation proceedings is required for Soldiers who—
(1) Do not make satisfactory progress in the Army Body Composition Program (ABCP) after a period of 6 months,
unless the responsible commander chooses to impose a bar to reenlistment in accordance with AR 140-111, chapter 1,
or NGR 600-200, paragraph 7-20.
(2) Fail to maintain Army body composition standards during the 12-month period following removal from the
ABCP.
c. Separation action under this chapter will not be initiated against a Soldier who meets the criteria for separation
under other provisions of this regulation. For example, a Soldier who, apart from failure to meet body composition
standards, is an unsatisfactory performer will be processed for separation under the provisions of chapter 9.
Section I
Required Publications
AR 15–6
Procedures for Investigating Officers and Boards of Officers. (Cited in paras 3–3, 3–10, and 3–17.)
AR 27–3
The Army Legal Assistance Program (Cited in paras 3–3.)
AR 27–10
Military Justice. (Cited in para 3–3, 3–10.)
AR 40–3
Medical, Dental, and Veterinary Care. (Cited in para 15–1k(1).)
AR 40–400
Patient Administration. (Cited in paras 1–9b and 6–6b(3).
AR 40–501
Standards of Medical Fitness. (Cited in paras 1–8, 1–9, 6–6, 9–2, and 15–1 and figs 3–1 and 3–4.)
AR 135–91
Service Obligations, Methods of Fulfillment, Participation Requirements, and Enforcement Procedures. (Cited in paras
1–18, 5–6, 6–3, and 13–1.)
AR 140–10
Assignments, Attachments, Details, and Transfers. (Cited in paras 1–23, 1–26, 3–9, 5–4, and 15–1.)
AR 140–111
U.S. Army Reserve Reenlistment Program. (Cited in paras 1–10, 1–20, 4–2, 5–3, 7–2, 9–2, 15–1, and 16–2.)
AR 195–2
Criminal Investigation Activities. (Cited in paras 1–13 and 10–1.)
AR 380–67
The Department of the Army Personnel Security Program. (Cited in paras 2–2, 10–1, and 15–1h.)
AR 600–8–2
Suspension of Favorable Personnel Actions (FLAGS). (Cited in paras 9–4, 10–6, 12–6, and 13–2.)
AR 600–8–105
Military Orders. (Cited in paras 2–13, 7–1, 7–2, and 15–11.)
AR 600–9
The Army Weight Control Program. (Cited in para 16–2 and B–4.)
AR 600–20
Army Command Policy. (Cited in paras 1–8, 6–2, 6–5, 6–7, 10–1, 10–6, and 14–1.)
AR 600–43
Conscientious Objection. (Cited in para 15–1.)
AR 600–85
Army Substance Abuse Program (ASAP). (Cited in paras 2–10, 3–4, 3–10, 3–17, 11–1, 11–2, and 12–1 and fig 3–3.)
AR 601–25
Delay in Reporting for and Exemption from Active Duty, Initial Active Duty Training, and Reserve Forces Duty.
(Cited in para 15–1.)
AR 601–210
Regular Army and Army Reserve Enlistment Program. (Cited in paras 4–2, 5–6, 5–8, 6–6, 7–2 and 15–5.)
AR 601–280
Army Retention Program. (Cited in paras 4–2, 5–4 and 7–2.)
AR 635–40
Physical Evaluation for Retention, Retirement, or Separation. (Cited in paras 1–9c, 6–7, and 15–1.)
DODD 1332.14
Enlisted Administrative Separations. (Cited in para 7–2c(2)(e).) (Available at http://www.dtic.mil/whs/directives.)
DODD 6490.1
Mental Health Evaluations of Members of the Armed Forces. (Cited in paras 1–8b(3) and 6–7e.) (Available at http://
www.dtic.mil/whs/directives.)
DODI 6490.4
Requirements for Mental Health Evaluations of Members of the Armed Forces. (Cited in para 1–8b(3).) Available at
www.dtic.mil/whs/directives.)
Section II
Related Publications
A related publication is a merely source of additional information. The user does not have to read a related publication
to understand this regulation.
AR 15–180
Army Discharge Review Board
AR 15–185
Army Board for Correction of Military Records
AR 25–50
Preparing and Managing Correspondence
AR 25–400–2
The Army Records Information Management System (ARIMS)
AR 135–7
Army National Guard and Army Reserve Incentive Programs
AR 140–1
Mission, Organization, and Training
AR 145–1
Senior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps Program: Organization, Administration, and Training
AR 600–8–19
Enlisted Promotions and Reductions
AR 600–8–104
Military Personnel Information Management/Records.
AR 635–200
Active Duty Enlisted Administrative Separations
NGR 40–3
Medical Care for Army National Guard Members. (Available at http://www.ngbpdc.ngb.army.mil/arngfiles.asp.)
NGR 600–200
Enlisted Personnel Management and Fiscal Year (FY) Enlistment Criteria Memorandum (ECM). (Available at http://
www.ngbpdc.ngb.army.mil/arngfiles.asp.)
UCMJ
Uniform Code of Military Justice. (Available at http://www.au.af.mil/au/awc/awcgate/ucmj.htm.)
10 USC 115
Personnel strengths: requirement for annual authorization. (Available at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/uscode/index.html.)
10 USC 641
Applicability of chapter. (Available at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/uscode/index.html.)
10 USC 651
Members: required service. (Available at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/uscode/index.html.)
10 USC 654
Policy concerning homosexuality in the armed forces. (Available at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/uscode/index.html.)
10 USC 1176
Enlisted members: retention after completion of 18 or more, but less than 20, years of service. (Available at http://
www.gpoaccess.gov/uscode/index.html.)
10 USC 2104
Advanced training; eligibility for. (Available at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/uscode/index.html.)
10 USC 2107
Financial assistance program for specially selected members. (Available at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/uscode/
index.html.)
10 USC 3914
Twenty to thirty years: enlisted members. (Available at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/uscode/index.html.)
10 USC 10206
Members: periodic physical examinations. (Available at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/uscode/index.html.)
10 USC 10301
Reserve Forces Policy Board. (Available at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/uscode/index.html.)
10 USC 12103
Reserve components: terms. (Available at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/uscode/index.html.)
10 USC 12106
Army and Air Force Reserve: transfer to upon withdrawal as members of National Guard. (Available at http://
www.gpoaccess.gov/uscode/index.html.)
10 USC 12301
Reserve components generally. (Available at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/uscode/index.html.)
10 USC 12641
Standards and procedures: Secretary to prescribe. (Available at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/uscode/index.html.)
10 USC 12644
Members physically not qualified for active duty: discharge or transfer to retired status. (Available at http://
www.gpoaccess.gov/uscode/index.html.)
10 USC 12681
Reserves: discharge authority. (Available at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/uscode/index.html.)
10 USC 12682
Reserves: discharge upon becoming ordained minister of religion. (Available at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/uscode/
index.html.)
10 USC 12684
Reserves: separation for absence without authority or sentence to imprisonment. (Available at http://
www.gpoaccess.gov/uscode/index.html.)
10 USC 12685
Reserves separated for cause: character of discharge. (Available at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/uscode/index.html.)
10 USC 12732
Entitlement to retired pay: computation of years of service. (Available at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/uscode/index.html.)
32 USC 316
Detail of members of Army National Guard for rifle instruction of civilians. (Available at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/
uscode/index.html.)
32 USC 502
Required drills and field exercises. (Available at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/uscode/index.html.)
32 USC 503
Participation in field exercises. (Available at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/uscode/index.html.)
32 USC 504
National Guard schools and small arms competitions. (Available at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/uscode/index.html.)
32 USC 505
Army and Air Force schools and field exercises. (Available at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/uscode/index.html.)
32 USC 708
Property and fiscal officers. (Available at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/uscode/index.html.)
Section III
Prescribed Forms
The following forms are available on the Army Electronic Library CD–ROM and the APD Web site (http://www.apd.-
army.mil) unless otherwise stated. DD forms are available from the Office of the Secretary of Defense Web site (http://
www.dior.whs.mil)
DA Form 7423
Consulting Counsel’s Checklist. (Prescribed in para 3-3a(1).)
DA Form 2–1
Personnel Qualification Record
DA Form 11–2–R
Management Control Evaluation Certification Statement
DA Form 2028
Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms
DA Form 5138
Separation Action Control Sheet
DD Form 4
Enlistment/Reenlistment Document Armed Forces of the United States
DD Form 256A
Discharge Certificate, Honorable
DD Form 293
Application for the Review of Discharge or Dismissal from the Armed Forces of the United States
PS Form 3800
Receipt for Certified Mail. (Available at United States Postal Service facilities.)
SF Form 600
Medical Record—Chronological Record of Medical Care. (Available at www.gsa.gov.)
B–2. Purpose
The purpose of this checklist is to assist commanders in evaluating the key management controls listed below. It is not
intended to cover all controls.
B–3. Instructions
Answers must be based on the actual testing of key management controls (for example, document analysis direct
observation, random sampling, and simulation). Answers that indicate deficiencies must be explained and corrective
action indicated in supporting documentation. These management controls must be evaluated at least once every 2
years. Certification that this evaluation has been conducted must be accomplished on DA Form 11–2–R (Management
Control Evaluation Certification Statement), which is available at http://www.apd.army.mil.
B–5. Comments
Help make this a better tool for evaluating management controls. Submit comments to HQDA, DCS, G–1, ATTN:
DAPE–MPE–RC, 300 Army Pentagon, Washington, DC 20310–0300.
ABCP
Army Body Composition Program
AD
active duty
ADT
active duty for training
ARNG
Army National Guard
ARNGUS
Army National Guard of the United States
AT
annual training
CAR
Chief, Army Reserve
CDR
Commander
CNGB
Chief, National Guard Bureau
DA
Department of the Army
DCS, G–1
Deputy Chief of Staff, G–1
DEP
Delayed Entry Program
DOD
Department of Defense
DTP
Delayed Training Program
DVA
Department of Veterans Affairs
EAD
extended active duty
EPTS
existed prior to entry service
FTNGD
Full-time National Guard duty
GCMCA
General Court Martial Convening Authority
HQDA
Headquarters, Department of the Army
HRC
U.S. Army Human Resources Command
HRC–St. Louis
U.S. Army Human Resources Command–St. Louis
IADT
initial active duty for training
IET
initial entry training
IMA
Individual Mobilization Augmentee; individual mobilization augmentation
IRR
Individual Ready Reserve
MATP
Mobilization Asset Transfer Program
MEB
Medical Evaluation Board
MOS
military occupational specialty
MPRJ
Military Personnel Records Jacket, U.S. Army
MSO
military service obligation
MTF
medical treatment facility
NGR
National Guard regulation
OCONUS
outside continental United States
OMPF
official military personnel file
PEB
physical examination board
PSI
personnel security investigative
PV1
private E–1
RDEP
Reserve Delayed Entry Program
ROTC
Reserve Officers’ Training Corps
SMP
simultaneous membership program
SROTC
Senior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps
TDA
table of distribution and allowances
TOE
table of organization and equipment
TPU
troop program unit
UCMJ
Uniform Code of Military Justice
USAR
United States Army Reserve
USAREC
United States Army Recruiting Command
USC
United States Code
WOC
warrant officer candidate
Section II
Terms
Active Army
a. The Active Army consists of (1) Regular Army Soldiers on active duty; (2) Army National Guard of the United
States and Army Reserve Soldiers on active duty (except as excluded below): (3) Army National Guard Soldiers in the
service of the United States pursuant to a call; and (4) all persons appointed, enlisted, or inducted into the Army
without component.
b. Excluded are Soldiers serving on (1) active duty for training (ADT); (2) Active Guard Reserve (AGR) status; (3)
active duty for special work (which includes temporary tours of active duty for 180 days or less; and (4) active duty
pursuant to the call of the President (10 USC 12304).
Active duty
Full-time duty in the active military service of the United States. As used in this regulation, the term applies to all
Army National Guard of the United States and U.S. Army Reserve Soldiers ordered to duty under Title 10, U.S. Code,
other than for training. It does not include AGR personnel in a full-time National Guard duty status under Title 32, U.
S. Code.
Active status
The status of an ARNGUS or USAR commissioned officer, other than a commissioned warrant officer, who is not in
the inactive Army National Guard, in the Standby Reserve (Inactive List), or in the Retired Reserve.
Active service
Service on active duty or full time National Guard duty.
Administrative separation
Discharge or release from expiration of enlistment or required period of service, or before, as prescribed by the
Department of the Army or by law. Separation by sentence of a general or special court-martial is not an administrative
separation.
Area command
A geographic area of command with Reserve Component functions and responsibilities.
Area commands
The following are defined as area commands:
a. United States Army, Europe (USAREUR).
b. United States Army Pacific Command (USARPAC).
c. United States Army South (USARSO).
d. United States Army Southern Command (SOUTHCOM).
e. United States Army Special Operations Command (USASOC).
f. United States Army Reserve Command (USARC).
g. Eighth United States Army (EUSA), Korea
Area commanders
Commanders of area commands.
Army
The Regular Army, Army of the United States, ARNGUS, and the USAR.
Bisexual
A person who engages in, attempts to engage in, has a propensity to engage in, or intends to engage in homosexual and
heterosexual acts.
Cause
Separation or denial of reenlistment for cause is based on a decision by an appropriate member of the Soldier’s chain
of command, supervisory chain, or higher authority that the Soldier’s personal or professional conduct, behavior, or
performance of duty warrants separation or denial of reenlistment in the best interest of the Army.
Convening authority
Can be defined as either—
a. The separation authority; or
b. A commanding officer who is authorized by this regulation to process the case, except for final action, and who
otherwise has the qualifications to act as a separation authority.
Discharge
Complete severance from all military status gained by the enlistment concerned.
Homosexual
A person, regardless of sex, who engages in, attempts to engage in, has a propensity to engage in, or intends to engage
in homosexual acts.
Homosexual act
a. Any bodily contact, actively undertaken or passively permitted, between members of the same sex for the purpose
of satisfying sexual desires; and
b. Any bodily contact that a reasonable person would understand to demonstrate a propensity or intent to engage in
an act described in paragraph aabove.
Homosexual conduct
A homosexual act, a statement by the Soldier that demonstrates a propensity or intent to engage in homosexual acts, or
a homosexual marriage or attempted homosexual marriage.
Juvenile offender
A person judged guilty of an offense by a domestic court of the United States or its territorial possessions, or by a
foreign court, without regard to whether a sentence has been imposed or suspended, or any other subsequent
proceedings in the case. The law of the jurisdiction of the court will determine whether a given proceeding constitutes
an adjudication of guilt. Adjudication as a juvenile offender includes adjudication as a juvenile delinquent, wayward
minor, or youthful offender.
Nonlocatee
An enlisted Soldier who has failed to furnish an address through which personal contact is possible.
Notification procedure
The initiation of an administrative separation process in which the respondent is notified, in writing, of the proposed
separation, the bases thereof, the results of separation, and his or her rights. This term is commonly used when the
respondent does not have a right to a hearing before a board of officers.
Preponderance of evidence
Evidence, which after a consideration of all the evidence presented, points to a certain conclusion as being more
credible and probable than any other conclusion. Where the evidence is equally consistent with two or more opposing
propositions, it is insufficient.
Ready Reserve
The Ready Reserve of the Army is comprised of military members of the ARNGUS and USAR, organized in units or
as individuals, and liable for order to active duty in time of war or national emergency. The Ready Reserve consists of
three subcategories: the Selected Reserve, the IRR, and the Inactive National Guard.
Respondent
A Soldier who has been notified that action has been initiated to separate him or her from the Service.
ROTC program
The SROTC of the Army.
Satisfactory participation
A level of performance where a Soldier avoids incurring the condition of unsatisfactory participation as defined in AR
135–91.
Selected Reserve
The Selected Reserve of the Army consists of those units and individuals in the Ready Reserve designated as so
essential to initial wartime missions that they have priority over all other Reserves. The Selected Reserve includes
officers, warrant officers, and enlisted Soldiers who are:
a. Members of the ARNGUS.
b. Assigned to troop program units of the USAR.
c. Serving on active duty (10 USC 12301d) or full-time National Guard duty (32 USC 502f) in an AGR status.
d. Individual Mobilization Augmentees.
Separation
An all inclusive term which is applied to personnel actions resulting from release from active duty, discharge,
retirement, dropped from the rolls, release from military control of personnel without a military status, death, or
discharge from the ARNGUS with concurrent transfer to the Individual Ready, Standby, or Retired Reserve. Reassign-
ments between the various categories of the USAR (Selected, Ready, Standby, or Retired) are not considered as
separations.
Separation authority
An official authorized by the Secretary of the Army, or his designated official, to take final action with respect to a
specified type of separation.
Sexual orientation
An abstract sexual preference for persons of a particular sex, as distinct from a propensity or intent to engage in sexual
acts.
Standby Reserve
The Standby Reserve consists of personnel maintaining their military affiliation without being in the Ready Reserve,
having been designated key civilian employees, or who have a temporary hardship or disability. These Soldiers are not
required to perform training and are not part of units. It is a pool of trained Soldiers who may be mobilized as needed
to fill manpower needs in specific skills. The Standby Reserve consists of two training categories: the Active Status
List and the Inactive Status List.
Section III
Special Abbreviations and Terms
This sections contains no entries.
PIN: 002143–000
DATE: 03-13-07
TIME: 08:37:13
PAGES SET: 103
SECURITY: UNCLASSIFIED
DOC STATUS: REVISION