Docket No: 3790-20  
Ref: Signature Date 
 
Dear :  
 
This is in reference to your application 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 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 for Correction of Naval Records, sitting in executive session, considered your application on 9 September 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 and began a period of active duty on 11 August 1953.  On 8 March 1954, you received non-judicial punishment (NJP) for unauthorized absence (UA).  On 1 June 1954, you received NJP for UA and failure to go to your appointed place of duty.  On 13 August 1954, you were convicted at a special court-martial (SPCM) for UA, and breaking restriction.  On 28 March 1956, you received NJP for failing to properly complete a trip ticket, and dereliction in the performance of your duties.  On 12 May 1956, you were notified of your non-recommendation for reenlistment by reason of your repeated infractions of discipline.  On 10 August 1956, you were discharged with a general characterization of service and transferred to the Marine Corps Reserves. 
 
The Board carefully weighed all potentially mitigating factors, such as your desire to upgrade your discharge and contention you were in a medically induced coma and declared “AWOL,” which you state, impacted your discharge.  The Board noted you failed to provide evidence, and your record does not contain evidence to support your contention.  Please note that characterization of service refers to the quality of an individual’s military service.  A general characterization is awarded when significant negative aspects of the member's conduct or performance outweigh positive aspects of their conduct or performance.   The Board in its review determined you were assigned the appropriate characterization of service based on your record of service. 
  
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 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,