Vets' agency launches web-based tool to upgrade military discharge

By answering a few short questions, Veterans will receive information on the specific armed services board to contact, the form/s to fill out, individual guidance applicable to their case, where to send their application and helpful tips for appealing their discharge.

“This new tool and partnership with DOD are two of many VA initiatives offered to Veterans who believe they may have been unfairly discharged or received an unfair discharge characterization,” said VA Secretary Dr. David J. Shulkin. “Veterans who believe their discharge was unjust, erroneous or warrants an upgrade are encouraged to use the tool and then apply for review.”

The military has estimated that tens of thousands of Veterans with less than honorable discharges are especially likely to have wrongful discharges deserving of upgrades. These are Veterans who were discharged due to incidents relating to post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury or sexual orientation.

Fragmented and confusing information has historically deterred Veterans from obtaining crucial information and — in many cases — essential benefits. The discharge upgrade tool is available at www.vets.gov/discharge-upgrade-instructions. For further assistance with this or any other benefit-related questions, please call or visit our office.

The Kings County Veterans Service Office can complete the DMV Veteran Status Verification Form for the California Veteran Designation on your driver’s license and issues Veteran I.D. cards to honorably discharged veterans.

Contact Scott Holwell at the email address provided below, if you would like to receive periodic veteran’s information by email. There are many state and federal benefits and programs available to veterans and their dependents.  To determine if you are eligible for any of these benefits, visit or call our office. 

We can and will assist you in completing all required application forms.  You can get information on the Web from the Kings County Veterans Service Office webpage at www.countyofkings.com/vets.

Scott Holwell, retired Navy Master Chief Petty Officer, is the Veterans Service Officer for Kings County. Send your questions to the Veterans Service Office, 1400 W. Lacey Blvd, Hanford, CA 93230; call (559)852-2669; or e-mail scott.holwell@co.kings.ca.us.