Gonzalez & Waddington, Attorneys at Law are world-renowned military defense lawyers who defend Soldiers in GOMOR rebuttals, Article 15 appeals, separation boards, discharge upgrades, and courts-martial. For Soldiers in the U.S. Army, few documents are as damaging as a General Officer Memorandum of Reprimand (GOMOR). Once filed, a GOMOR can end promotions, trigger separation boards, or cost retirement benefits.

This guide explains how to write a persuasive GOMOR rebuttal, with step-by-step instructions, sample templates, practical tips, and common mistakes to avoid. Whether you’re a junior enlisted Soldier or a senior officer, the way you respond to a GOMOR may decide the future of your career.

Why GOMORs Are So Serious

A GOMOR is more than just a “slap on the wrist.” It is a career killer if not handled properly. Here’s why:

• Promotion Dead Stop: Once a GOMOR goes into your permanent file, you will almost certainly be passed over for promotion.
• Separation Trigger: Commands routinely use GOMORs as evidence at administrative separation boards.
• Retirement Jeopardy: Soldiers at 18–20 years of service can still be separated without benefits if a GOMOR sticks.
• Security Clearances: A GOMOR is flagged in clearance reviews, often leading to suspension or denial.
• Future Civilian Employment: Federal employers, contractors, and law enforcement agencies often ask about reprimands and adverse actions.

In short: a GOMOR is not the end — unless you let it go unchallenged.

GOMOR Rebuttal Template (Sample Structure)

This is a baseline structure. Your rebuttal should always be customized with facts, evidence, and endorsements.

MEMORANDUM FOR Commander
FROM: [Rank, Name, Unit]
SUBJECT: Rebuttal to GOMOR dated [XX XXX 20XX]

1. Introduction
- Respectfully acknowledge receipt of the GOMOR.
- State your understanding of the allegations.

2. Service Record and Achievements
- Summarize deployments, awards, and evaluations.
- Attach key supporting documents (NCOERs, OERs, award citations).

3. Response to Allegations
- Point-by-point rebuttal of each allegation.
- Provide witness statements, documents, or other evidence.
- Emphasize inconsistencies or lack of proof.

4. Mitigation & Rehabilitation
- Highlight counseling, training, or corrective actions taken.
- Show positive duty performance since the alleged incident.

5. Request for Relief
- Respectfully request withdrawal of the GOMOR or transfer to restricted file.
- Emphasize desire to continue serving honorably.

SIGNED:
[Name, Rank, Signature]
    

Step-by-Step: How to Write a Winning GOMOR Rebuttal

1. Act Quickly

You normally have 7–14 days to submit a rebuttal. Ask for an extension if needed, but never miss the deadline.

2. Gather Documentation

Collect evaluations, award citations, deployment records, and duty logs. The stronger the documentation, the harder it is for the GOMOR to stand unchallenged.

3. Get Character Statements

Letters from senior NCOs, officers, and peers are critical. These should specifically address your integrity, professionalism, and value to the Army — not just generic “good guy” statements.

4. Address Allegations Directly

Don’t ignore the accusations. Take them one by one, pointing out errors, gaps in evidence, or mitigating circumstances.

5. Frame the Bigger Picture

Show how your overall record of service outweighs a single allegation or mistake. Frame yourself as rehabilitatable and mission-essential.

6. Close Respectfully

Your conclusion should request either withdrawal of the GOMOR or at least transfer to the restricted file so it doesn’t block promotions.

Common Mistakes That Ruin GOMOR Rebuttals

Advanced Defense Strategies for GOMOR Cases

• Attack the Process: Was the investigation incomplete or biased?
• Mitigation Evidence: Counseling, anger management, or substance treatment programs show rehabilitation.
• Comparison Arguments: Show similar cases where Soldiers were not reprimanded — highlight inconsistency.
• Future Impact Argument: Emphasize that separation would waste years of training and experience.

Video: How to Fight a GOMOR in the Army

Why Hire Gonzalez & Waddington for GOMOR Defense?

We’ve defended Soldiers across the globe — from Fort Bragg to Kuwait and Germany — in GOMOR rebuttals, Article 15 appeals, and separation boards. We know what Army commanders and boards respect — and how to save careers.

• ✅ Hundreds of successful reprimand rebuttals and board defenses
• ✅ Published authorities on trial advocacy and military law
• ✅ Global experience in high-profile Army cases

Contact Gonzalez & Waddington at ucmjdefense.com or call 1-800-921-8607 for immediate help with your GOMOR rebuttal.

Frequently Asked Questions: Army GOMOR Rebuttals