Re: Interpretation of Discharge Papers
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In reply to:
Interpretation of Discharge Papers
jeremy adam 1/18/12
Jeremy:
Pls disregard my other 2 postings; I have your answer:
Chircular No. 77, Nov 21, 1918, authorizes the discharge of men upon their own application where the discharges will not disrupt or cripple an existing organization and the soldier's services can be spared; in cases where the discharge is applied for, "when there is sickness or other distress in the soldier's family, or when he is needed to resume employment in an industry or occupation in which there is urgent need of h is services." Discharges given under this circular are issued by way of favor in advance of the time the soldier would normally be discharged with the other men of his unit. In such case, it would be permissable to take into consideration, in determining whether or not the favor should be granted, the fact that the soldier is indebted to the US and to decline the favor onthis ground, unless the reasons for his discharge in advance of the time he would normally be discharged are such as to be controlling.
2. Therefore, when a man applies for discharge prior to other men of his unit under the provisions of Cir 77, WD 1918, the Commander who under the provisions of paragraph 1 of that cirular may effect such discharges, may or may not grant discharge, as seems best in his judgment. When there are several soldirs applying for discharge under provisions of Cir 77, other things being equal, those men not indebted to the Government are entitled to priority and first consideration. To justify discharge of soldiers indebted to the Government prior to the other men in his unit under the provisions of Cir 77 on account of sickness or distress, such suckness or distress insoldier's family must be most critical. In order for an indebted soldier to secure discharge on industrial grounds, his services in industry must be shown to be so essential that he is a key or pivot man in an important industry, (220.81,A.G.O.)
I hope this clarifys the discharge for you somewhat, and helps others who have similar unanswered questions.
patty