How to File with a Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR/BCNR/AFBCMR/NDRB/AFDRB)
Gonzalez & Waddington, Attorneys at Law represent service members worldwide in BCMR petitions, discharge upgrades, appeals, and administrative hearings. If you received an unjust discharge, GOMOR, Article 15, or adverse board decision, you may be able to fight back through the Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR) or related boards in your branch.
This guide explains how to file with the BCMR/BCNR/AFBCMR/NDRB/AFDRB, what evidence you need, and common mistakes to avoid.
Why Filing with a Correction Board Matters
- Correct injustices: Boards exist to fix errors or injustices in military records.
- Discharge upgrades: A BCMR or DRB can change a General or OTH to Honorable.
- Remove adverse records: Boards can expunge GOMORs, NJPs, and poor evaluations.
- Restore benefits: Correcting your record can restore lost VA, GI Bill, or retirement benefits.
Which Board Do You File With?
- Army: Army Board for Correction of Military Records (ABCMR)
- Air Force / Space Force: Air Force Board for Correction of Military Records (AFBCMR)
- Navy / Marine Corps: Board for Correction of Naval Records (BCNR)
- Coast Guard: Board for Correction of Military Records (CG BCMR)
- Discharge Review Boards: NDRB (Navy/Marines) and AFDRB (Air Force/Space Force) handle discharges within 15 years.
The BCMR Filing Process
1. Timeline
Petitions should be filed within 3 years of discovery of the error. Late filings may still be reviewed “in the interest of justice.”
2. Forms
Each branch uses a petition form (e.g., DD Form 149 for BCMRs, DD Form 293 for DRBs).
3. Evidence
- Official documents: Court-martial transcripts, board findings, personnel records.
- Performance records: NCOERs, OERs, FITREPs, or EPRs showing strong service.
- Character statements: From commanders, peers, or subordinates.
- Medical/psychological records: Especially in misconduct or PTSD/TBI-related cases.
4. Legal Arguments
Your petition must show the record is either erroneous (factually wrong) or unjust (procedurally unfair, excessive, or disproportionate).
Strategies for Winning a BCMR Petition
1. Be Precise
State exactly what correction you are requesting (e.g., upgrade discharge to Honorable, remove GOMOR, reinstate rank).
2. Provide Compelling Evidence
Don’t just claim injustice — prove it with documents, records, and witness statements.
3. Link to Regulations
Cite service regulations, UCMJ articles, and procedural rules showing the error or injustice.
4. Show Post-Service Conduct
BCMRs and DRBs often consider rehabilitation. Evidence of education, employment, and good citizenship helps.
Common Mistakes in BCMR Petitions
- 🔥 Filing without supporting documents or evidence.
- 🔥 Submitting vague or emotional appeals.
- 🔥 Asking for multiple unrelated corrections in one petition.
- 🔥 Missing deadlines and failing to argue “interest of justice.”
- 🔥 Filing without legal assistance from experienced military lawyers.
Video: Filing with a Board for Correction of Military Records
Why Hire Gonzalez & Waddington for BCMR Petitions?
Our firm has represented Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Guardians, and Coast Guardsmen in BCMR and DRB petitions, GOMOR removals, discharge upgrades, and appeals. We understand how these boards work — and how to craft persuasive petitions that succeed.
- ✅ Experience with high-profile record corrections and discharge upgrades
- ✅ Represented clients in all branches of the military
- ✅ Published authorities on military administrative law and appeals
Contact Gonzalez & Waddington at ucmjdefense.com or call 1-800-921-8607 for immediate help with your BCMR or DRB petition.
Frequently Asked Questions: BCMR Petitions
What is a BCMR?
A Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR) is the highest administrative authority in each service for correcting errors or injustices in military records.
How long do I have to file?
Generally 3 years from discovery of the error. Late filings may still be reviewed if it’s in the interest of justice.
What can I request?
Discharge upgrades, removal of GOMORs, NJPs, reinstatement of rank, back pay, and other corrections.
What’s the difference between a DRB and BCMR?
Discharge Review Boards (DRBs) handle discharges within 15 years. BCMRs have broader authority and no strict 15-year cutoff.
Do I need a lawyer to file?
Yes. Success rates are much higher with experienced civilian military defense lawyers drafting and filing your petition.
