What is the most severe type of military discharge, which also has serious consequences?

The most severe type of military discharge is a Dishonorable Discharge. This type of discharge is issued as a result of a court-martial for serious offenses such as desertion, sexual assault, or drug use. The consequences of a Dishonorable Discharge are significant and far-reaching. Individuals receiving this type of discharge may lose their rights to benefits such as veterans’ healthcare, education grants, and even the ability to vote in some states. A Dishonorable Discharge also carries a social stigma and can severely impact an individual’s prospects for employment and housing, as it is often viewed negatively by potential employers.

In contrast, a General Discharge under Honorable Conditions denotes satisfactory performance but may reflect a less-than-ideal record. A Bad-Conduct Discharge, while serious, is generally a step below a Dishonorable Discharge and can stem from non-felony offenses resulting in a court-martial. An Other than Honorable Discharge can result from misconduct but does not carry the same severity or implications as a Dishonorable Discharge. Thus, the severity and lasting ramifications of a Dishonorable Discharge justify its classification as the most serious type of military discharge.