Docket No: 5228-19  
Date: Ref Signature 

Dear : 
 
This is in reference to your application of 13 February 2019 for correction of your naval record pursuant to Title 10, United States Code, Section 1552.  After careful and conscientious consideration of the entire record, the Board for Correction of Naval Records (Board) found that the evidence submitted was insufficient to establish the existence of probable material error or injustice.  Consequently, your application has been denied. 
 
Although your application was not filed in a timely manner, the Board found it in the interest of justice to waive the statute of limitations and consider your application on its merits.  A three-member panel of the Board, sitting in executive session, considered your application on 22 July 2020.  The names and votes of the members of the panel will be furnished upon request.  Your allegations of error and injustice were reviewed in accordance with administrative regulations and procedures applicable to the proceedings of this Board.  Documentary material considered by the Board consisted of your application, together with all material submitted in support thereof, relevant portions of your naval record, and applicable statutes, regulations, and policies. 
 
You enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserves on 29 May 1957.  On 5 December 1958, you received non-judicial punishment (NJP) for unauthorized absence (UA).  On 31 July 1961 and 31 January 1962, you received a mark of 2.8 in conduct and proficiency.  On 28 May 1963, you received a final mark of 3.9 in conduct, and you were discharge with a general characterization of service.   
 
The Board carefully weighed all potentially mitigating factors in your case, including your desire to upgrade your discharge and contention that your discharge is unjust and was not explained to you.  You state, you are a supporter of the Marine Corps and support and contribute to the Marine Corps and its programs.  The Board noted that a character of service is based, in part, on conduct and overall trait averages which are computed from marks assigned during periodic evaluation.  Your conduct average was 3.9.  An average of 4.0 in conduct was requested at the time of your separation for a fully honorable characterization of service.  The Board in its review determined you were assigned the appropriate characterization of service, and discerned no probable material error or injustice.  The Board noted that it may reconsider this request if you were to provide additional information, statements or other documentation detailing accomplishments in the service or after the service, such as your career achievements, educational advancement, and service to the community. 
 
It is regretted that the circumstances of your case are such that favorable action cannot be taken.  You are entitled to have the Board reconsider its decision upon the submission of new matters, which will require you to complete and submit a new DD Form 149.  New matters are those not previously presented to or considered by the Board.  In this regard, it is important to keep in mind that a presumption of regularity attaches to all official records.  Consequently, when applying for a correction of an official naval record, the burden is on the applicant to demonstrate the existence of probable material error or injustice.   
 
Sincerely,