DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY 
BOARD FOR CORRECTION OF NAVAL RECORDS 
701 S. COURTHOUSE ROAD, SUITE 1001 
ARLINGTON, VA 22204-2490 

Docket No:  1564-19               
Ref: Signature date 

This is in reference to your application of 25 June 2018 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 12 November 2019.  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, relevant portions of your naval record, and applicable statutes, regulations, and policies. 

You enlisted in the Navy and began a period of active duty on 16 May 1950.  On 19 December 1950, you received non-judicial punishment (NJP) for underage drinking and assault.  On 6 August 1952, you received NJP for aiding and abetting the false use of an ID card.  Your 6 August 1952 evaluation marked you as 2.0 for conduct.  You were separated with an honorable characterization of service on 10 March 1954. 

The Board carefully weighed all potentially mitigating factors in your case, including your desire to be awarded the Navy Good Conduct Medal and assertions that you had a problem with alcohol in the Navy, but quit drinking alcohol, joined AA, and have over 48 years sobriety as an active member of AA.  The Board also considered your assertions that you turned your life around, became a successful person, earned a degree and were Student Body President.  The Board concluded these factors and assertions were insufficient to award you the Navy Good Conduct Medal.  Your conduct, which resulted in two NJPs and 2.0 mark for conduct, disqualified you, by regulation, from receiving the Navy Good Conduct Medal. 

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, 

12/9/2019