How can I find info on an early military discharge?

I’m trying to help a family find some info on their recently deceased relative’s Navy discharge. They enlisted in 1964 for four years but got discharged after just 2 years and 4 months. The DD-214 says something about “Article C-10306(2)(b) Bupers Manual 221.” I’ve tried online searches, but no luck. Anyone have advice?

Yeah, those old BUPERS regs aren’t online. I think it’s some kind of ‘administrative separation,’ which basically means the Navy decided to discharge them early, but it could mean a bunch of things.

Luca said:
Yeah, those old BUPERS regs aren’t online. I think it’s some kind of ‘administrative separation,’ which basically means the Navy decided to discharge them early, but it could mean a bunch of things.

Thanks! Makes sense. Would the old regs have more details?

@Avery
Probably, but you’d need a copy from 1964 to be sure. You might be able to get one from the Naval Historical Center.

@Avery
Good idea! I’ll check with them. Appreciate it.

If you have next of kin permission, the family can request the full OMPF (Official Military Personnel File) from the military archives. That should have the full discharge reason.

Davin said:
If you have next of kin permission, the family can request the full OMPF (Official Military Personnel File) from the military archives. That should have the full discharge reason.

That’s perfect, thanks! I’ll let them know they can do that.

Davin said:
If you have next of kin permission, the family can request the full OMPF (Official Military Personnel File) from the military archives. That should have the full discharge reason.

Just FYI, it can take a while to get the OMPF. Be prepared for a wait.

“Convenience of the Navy” might just mean they didn’t need the person anymore. Common back in the day.

Sidney said:
“Convenience of the Navy” might just mean they didn’t need the person anymore. Common back in the day.

Interesting! I didn’t realize they’d use that as a catch-all.

Avery said:

Sidney said:
“Convenience of the Navy” might just mean they didn’t need the person anymore. Common back in the day.

Interesting! I didn’t realize they’d use that as a catch-all.

Yep! I had a buddy who was let go under similar circumstances. Definitely worth checking the OMPF for details, though.

You can also try contacting a Veterans Services Officer. They might have experience with these old records and be able to help you interpret them.

Mica said:
You can also try contacting a Veterans Services Officer. They might have experience with these old records and be able to help you interpret them.

Thanks for the tip! That could be super helpful.

Mica said:
You can also try contacting a Veterans Services Officer. They might have experience with these old records and be able to help you interpret them.

And VSO services are usually free too, if that helps!

I think the Naval Historical Center has a section specifically for personnel inquiries. It might be a long shot, but worth reaching out!

Valen said:
I think the Naval Historical Center has a section specifically for personnel inquiries. It might be a long shot, but worth reaching out!

Awesome, I’ll definitely reach out to them. Thanks for the suggestion!