Can I still get my GI Bill?

Question

I was in the Army National Guard from 2003-2007 and was deployed once. I was eligible for my GI Bill benefits when I was in the Guard. I transferred to Active Duty and have been in since Dec. 07 but have been unable to pass a PT test due to being overweight and up for discharge. I know it's my fault, so please don't tell me I should have been in shape when I got here, I KNOW. Will I still be eligible for my GI Bill benefits when I get out even if I get discharged from the Active Army?

Answer 1

If it's a dishonorable discharge I think they actually make you pay it back even.  So I doubt it.

I am not 100% sure, I've only read an article about a similar case.

Answer 2

Normally you have 10 years after discharge to use it. Check with your local VA Rep to verify. I was discharged for the same reason and had a honorable discharge with a separation code of HCR in block 26 of my DD Form 214 member-4. I'm not sure what that code means. I'm sure it has something to do with benefits. Never tried to use my GI bill. Didn't need it. I was active duty for seven years(89-96) and fought the weight thing for 5 of those years, it was pure h**l so don't feel bad about it.

Answer 3

Find out soon.  I know that the rules recently changed but since you started off in the Guard, chances are that you did not contribute the $1200 to get it started.  I know that for the new one, you don't need to.  I found this online.  Weight Control Failure.  A member may be separated for failure to meet the weight control standards established under DoD Directive 1308.1, when it is determined that the member is unqualified for further military service, and the member is not medically diagnosed with a medical condition that precludes or interferes with weight control. Members with a medically diagnosed condition that precludes or interferes with weight control may be separated either through medical channels, if appropriate. Separation processing may not be initiated until the member has been counseled formally concerning deficiencies and has been afforded an opportunity to overcome those deficiencies as reflected in appropriate counseling or personnel records. Characterization of the discharge will normally be Honorable, unless characterization of service.