The Portland Oregon Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, commonly referred to as the DD Form 214, is a crucial document issued to military personnel upon their separation or retirement from the United States Armed Forces. This certificate provides extensive information about an individual's military service and is incredibly important for veterans as it serves as proof of honorable discharge and facilitates numerous benefits and privileges. The Portland Oregon Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty contains various key details, ensuring the accuracy and validity of an individual's military service. These details include the veteran's full name, service number, Social Security number, date and place of entry into active duty, date and place of separation, military occupation specialty (MOS), awards and decorations received, as well as their character of service. There are specific types of the Portland Oregon Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty that veterans may possess based on their service and discharge status: 1. Honorable Discharge: This type of certificate reflects a veteran's successful completion of their military service, having met or exceeded the performance and conduct standards expected. An honorable discharge certificate opens the doors to a wide range of benefits such as educational assistance, healthcare, and various other veteran support services. 2. General Discharge: A general discharge signifies that a service member may not have met all the performance and conduct standards required for an honorable discharge, but their overall service was satisfactory. While not as advantageous as an honorable discharge, individuals with a general discharge may still be eligible for some veteran benefits. 3. Other Than Honorable Discharge: This type of discharge is typically given to individuals who have committed serious misconduct or repeated violations of military regulations. It is the most severe non-punitive discharge a service member can receive, and it may result in the loss of most veteran benefits. 4. Bad Conduct Discharge: This discharge is awarded as a result of a court-martial conviction for a serious offense or repeated misconduct. Veterans who receive a bad conduct discharge may have limited access to veteran benefits and face challenges when transitioning back into civilian life. 5. Dishonorable Discharge: The dishonorable discharge is the most severe punitive discharge that can be given and is only issued through a court-martial process for serious crimes or offenses. Veterans with a dishonorable discharge are not entitled to any veteran benefits and are often denied employment opportunities due to the negative stigma associated with it. It is crucial for veterans to securely retain their Portland Oregon Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, as it functions as evidence of their military service and honorable discharge status. This document serves as a gateway to an array of benefits, including educational support, preferential hiring, mortgage assistance, and medical care, aiding in the successful transition into civilian life.