Marine Corps Knowledge Practice

A Dishonorable Discharge is a type of punitive discharge that occurs as a result of serious misconduct. This form of discharge is typically imposed for offenses such as desertion, violent crimes, or morally reprehensible actions that violate military law. A dishonorable discharge carries significant consequences, including the loss of all benefits associated with military service, and it can severely impact future employment and social status. This type of discharge is meant to serve as a deterrent and a punishment for service members who fail to uphold the standards of conduct required by the Marine Corps and other military branches.

In contrast, the other options do not constitute punitive discharges. A Medical Discharge is issued for health-related reasons, an Administrative Discharge can be given for various non-criminal reasons, and a Voluntary Discharge typically involves the service member choosing to leave the military under honorable conditions. None of these involve the punitive measures that a dishonorable discharge entails.