Which type of discharge disqualifies a veteran from burial in a national cemetery?

A dishonorable discharge is significant because it reflects serious violations of military conduct, and it disqualifies a veteran from receiving various benefits, including burial in a national cemetery. The regulations regarding eligibility for burial in national cemeteries stipulate that only veterans with an honorable or certain other specified types of discharges qualify for interment. This aligns with the Department of Veterans Affairs' recognition that dishonorable behavior undermines the dignity and respect afforded to veterans who have served honorably.

The honorable, general, and medical discharges do not disqualify veterans from burial in national cemeteries. An honorable discharge is the best outcome, indicating that the servicemember met all the necessary conduct and performance standards. A general discharge, while not as prestigious, still indicates satisfactory service under conditions other than dishonorable. A medical discharge typically results from health issues incurred or aggravated during service, and it still maintains eligibility for burial benefits. Collectively, these types allow veterans to be honored posthumously, while a dishonorable discharge negates that privilege.