GOMOR Rebuttals: How to Save Your Career
It’s not “just a letter.” It is the end of your career—unless we fight it.
The “Paper Bullet” to the Head
A General Officer Memorandum of Reprimand (GOMOR) is often more damaging to an Officer’s career than a Court-Martial acquittal.
If a GOMOR is filed in your permanent record (OMPF), the Army’s Human Resources Command (HRC) will almost certainly trigger a Board of Inquiry (BOI) to separate you. For NCOs, it leads to a QMP board and denial of reenlistment. Your only chance to stop this chain reaction is the written rebuttal phase.
The Goal: Local Filing vs. Permanent Filing
When you receive a GOMOR, the General is asking you: “Convince me why I shouldn’t put this in your permanent file.”
You have two strategic options, depending on the evidence:
Strategy A: “The Sword” (Attack the Evidence)
If the accusation is false—for example, a sexual assault allegation with no proof, or a misunderstanding of regulations—we use the rebuttal to tear apart the investigation. We attach witness statements, timelines, and regulations to prove the General is wrong.
Strategy B: “The Shield” (Acceptance & Mitigation)
If you made a mistake (e.g., a DUI or a one-time lapse in judgment), denying it will only make the General angry. In this case, we craft a package that says: “I messed up, I learned, and my 15 years of perfect service outweigh this one bad night.” We flood the packet with character letters from high-ranking officers to advocate for a Local Filing.
Aggressive Military Defense Lawyers: Gonzalez & Waddington
Watch the military defense lawyers at Gonzalez & Waddington break down how they defend service members worldwide against UCMJ allegations, CID/NCIS/OSI investigations, court-martials, Article 120 cases, administrative separations, and GOMORs. If you’re under investigation or facing charges, this video explains what your rights are and how experienced civilian military counsel can make the difference.
The Stakes: Where Does the Letter Go?
| Outcome | Where it is Filed | Career Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Permanent Filing | OMPF / AMHRR (Official Military Personnel File) | Catastrophic. Seen by promotion boards. Triggers QMP/Show Cause Board. Usually leads to discharge. |
| Local Filing | Local Unit File (Destroyed after transfer/3 years) | Survivable. Promotion boards never see it. You can PCS and restart your career with a clean slate. |
| Withdrawn / Torn Up | Trash Can | Total Victory. The General decides the reprimand was unwarranted and rescinds it completely. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use the JAG office for my rebuttal?
A: You can, but remember: JAGs are often junior captains with huge caseloads. They may suggest a “cookie-cutter” rebuttal. A GOMOR is a nuanced political document. You need a civilian lawyer who can draft a narrative that appeals to a General Officer’s specific sensibilities.
Q: If it gets filed permanently, can I appeal later?
A: Yes, you can appeal to the Department of the Army Suitability Evaluation Board (DASEB) to move it to the restricted fiche or remove it. However, the success rate is low. It is much easier to convince the General now than to convince a board in Washington DC later.
Q: Who should write my character letters?
A: Quality over quantity. A letter from a Colonel or Sergeant Major who knows you well is worth ten letters from peers. We guide you on exactly who to ask and what they should say (e.g., “I would still trust him to lead soldiers in combat”).
You Have 7 Days to Save Your Career.
Do not waste time. We can draft a powerful, persuasive rebuttal packet in 24-48 hours.
