If you’ve received an Article 15 (non-judicial punishment) and worry it will haunt your military record, you’re not alone. Many service members wonder if there’s a way to expunge or remove an Article 15 from their records so they can move forward with their careers. The good news is that under certain circumstances, it is possible to have an Article 15 removed or corrected. Each branch of the U.S. Armed Forces has its own policies for addressing Article 15 records, and there are formal processes to petition for their removal. In this post, we’ll break down the branch-specific expungement policies, guide you through the step-by-step process of seeking a record correction (including Board for Correction of Military Records petitions), and highlight the benefits of a clean record—like improved promotion chances and security clearance eligibility. We’ll also walk through a couple of hypothetical examples to illustrate how the process works and the positive outcomes that can result. Throughout this guide, the National Security Law Firm (NSLF) draws on its military law expertise to help demystify Article 15 removals and empower you with knowledge to reclaim your good standing.

What Is an Article 15 and Why Removal Matters

An Article 15 (named for Article 15 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice) is a form of non-judicial punishment (NJP) that a commander can impose for minor offenses without a court-martial. In the Army and Air Force it’s commonly called an Article 15, while the Navy and Coast Guard often refer to it as Captain’s Mast, and the Marine Corps calls it Office Hours​. Receiving an Article 15 is not a criminal conviction, but it does go on your military record and can negatively impact your career. For example, having an Article 15 in your file can stall promotions or derail career advancement, and it might limit reenlistment options​. It can even jeopardize your security clearance for certain jobs​. 

In short, an Article 15 can be a serious blemish that follows you throughout your service. That’s why many service members seek to remove or correct an Article 15 record once the issue has been resolved or if it was unjust in the first place. Removing an Article 15 can open doors that were previously closed, improving your standing in the military and restoring opportunities for promotions and increased responsibility​. 

In the sections below, we’ll discuss how each branch handles Article 15 records and what you can do to petition for removal.

Expungement Policies by Service Branch

Policies for expunging or removing an Article 15 (NJP) from your record vary slightly by branch, but all branches provide a path to request correction or removal of unjust records. Here’s an overview of how each service approaches Article 15 record expungement:

  • Army: In the Army, soldiers must exhaust administrative remedies before applying for a records correction. Army regulations (for example, AR 27-10 and AR 600-37) outline procedures for appealing an Article 15 and even transferring it to a restricted file in certain cases (such as through the Department of the Army Suitability Evaluation Board, DASEB, for active duty soldiers). Only after you’ve tried these avenues—like appealing the Article 15 to a higher commander and requesting any available set-aside or transfer of the record—should you turn to the Army Board for Correction of Military Records (ABCMR). The ABCMR is the Army’s highest administrative board that can remove or correct records if it finds an error or injustice. In short, the Army expects you to appeal through the chain of command first; if that doesn’t fix the issue, you can petition the ABCMR to expunge the Article 15 from your Official Military Personnel File.
  • Navy and Marine Corps: Navy and Marine Corps service members also have options to remove NJP entries, though their process is slightly different. A commanding officer in the sea services has the authority to “set aside” an NJP within a certain time frame if they believe it was unjust or in error. A set-aside will effectively undo the punishment and purge the NJP from your record​. However, set-asides are relatively rare and usually must occur soon after the Article 15/NJP was imposed (often within a few months). If a set-aside isn’t granted, the primary avenue for Navy and Marine Corps personnel is the Board for Correction of Naval Records (BCNR). The BCNR, under 10 U.S.C. 1552, can correct errors or injustices in naval service records, including removing an unjust Article 15 or NJP notation​. In fact, the BCNR’s mission is specifically to correct errors and remove injustices from Navy and Marine records​. Sailors and Marines must also exhaust any available administrative appeals first (for instance, any appeals to higher authority or other review boards), then they can submit a petition to the BCNR. The BCNR has the power to remove NJP records if it finds that keeping the record would be unjust. 
  • Air Force: The Air Force treats Article 15s similarly to the Army in many respects. An Air Force member who receives an Article 15 can appeal the decision to the next higher commander in their chain of command (this appeal usually must be submitted within a few days of the punishment). Additionally, Air Force commanders (or their successors) have the authority to set aside an Article 15 punishment if new evidence emerges or if they believe a clear injustice occurred – but like the other branches, this is typically done within a relatively short period after the NJP. For long-term record correction, the Air Force uses the Air Force Board for Correction of Military Records (AFBCMR). The AFBCMR is the highest administrative board for the Air Force; it can remove or amend entries in your record, including an Article 15, if you can demonstrate an error or injustice. The process involves submitting a formal application (DD Form 149) to the board. Just as in the Army, you’re generally expected to try any immediate remedies (like appeals or requests for set-aside) before the AFBCMR will consider your case​. The Air Force personnel system also uses tools like the Unfavorable Information File (UIF) to manage Article 15 paperwork. Even if an Article 15 eventually drops out of a UIF after a certain period, it may still remain in your master personnel records unless the AFBCMR removes it. In summary, the Air Force path to expungement is: appeal promptly, then apply to the AFBCMR for record correction if needed.
  • Coast Guard: The Coast Guard, while a maritime service like the Navy, has its own administrative processes (under the Department of Homeland Security). NJP in the Coast Guard is often handled similarly to the Navy (and is also commonly called a Captain’s Mast). A Coast Guard member can seek relief from an unjust Article 15 by applying to the Coast Guard Board for Correction of Military Records, which functions like the other services’ boards. The Coast Guard’s board has the authority to remove documentation of NJP from a member’s record if warranted​. As with other branches, the member should pursue any direct appeals or request a set-aside through their chain of command first. The formal correction route involves submitting a DD Form 149 to the Coast Guard’s BCMR. The Coast Guard follows the same legal framework (10 U.S.C. 1552) for corrections, meaning if you can prove the Article 15 was unjust or erroneous, the board can expunge it. For example, there have been cases where the Coast Guard’s BCMR ordered all records of an NJP removed from a member’s file when it concluded that keeping those records would be an injustice​. 

Bottom line: No matter the branch, there is a way to request removal of an Article 15 from your record – typically by appealing to a high-level corrections board (ABCMR, BCNR, AFBCMR, or Coast Guard BCMR) after you’ve tried any available internal appeals. Next, we’ll walk through the step-by-step process of petitioning for an Article 15 removal or correction.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Petition for Article 15 Removal

Removing an Article 15 from your military record involves navigating the proper channels and presenting a strong case. While the exact steps can vary slightly by branch, the general process is similar. Below is a step-by-step guide to petitioning for record removal or correction:

  1. Appeal the Article 15 Through Your Chain of Command (if timely). If you’ve recently received the Article 15 and believe it was unjust or too harsh, your first step should be to use the appeal process within your unit or service. All branches allow a service member to appeal an NJP to a higher commander (usually the next level in the chain) within a short window (often 5 days in many cases). In your appeal, you can argue why the finding or punishment was in error or unjust, and provide any evidence or statements supporting your position. The higher commander can decide to uphold the Article 15, reduce the punishment, or in some cases set it aside (voiding the Article 15). For instance, Navy regulations explicitly allow a commanding officer or a successor to set aside an NJP if warranted, which removes the punishment from the record​. In the Army, you may request the imposing commander or a superior to reconsider or remit the punishment as a form of clemency. While an appeal or set-aside early on is not guaranteed to succeed, it’s a crucial first opportunity to prevent the Article 15 from becoming a permanent stain on your record. (If your appeal is denied or the Article 15 is already old, don’t worry—you still have further steps below.)
  2. Gather Supporting Evidence and Documentation. Before petitioning any formal board, compile all relevant evidence that strengthens your case for removal. This may include witness statements, character reference letters from supervisors or colleagues, copies of your evaluations before and after the incident, any new evidence that wasn’t available during the Article 15 proceeding, and proof of your good conduct since the incident​. If you believe the Article 15 was factually unjust, gather evidence that disproves or casts doubt on the allegations. If the Article 15 was properly given but you’re seeking removal due to subsequent stellar service (a common approach if enough time has passed), collect documentation of your achievements, awards, and clean disciplinary record since then​. The goal is to show one of two things: either that a material error or injustice occurred in giving you the Article 15, or that you have rehabilitated and keeping the Article 15 on file would now be unjust. The burden is on you as the applicant to prove your case, so thorough preparation is key. Strong evidence can include things like a letter from your former commander supporting removal, or records showing the incident was an anomaly in an otherwise exemplary career. Tip: Organization is important – when it comes time to submit your packet, you’ll want to have these materials clearly labeled and ready to go.
  3. Complete a DD Form 149 and Submit a Petition to the Correction Board. The formal mechanism to remove or fix an error in your military records (including an Article 15) is to apply to your service’s Board for Correction of Military Records. This involves filling out DD Form 149, Application for Correction of Military Record, which is the same form for all branches​. On this form, you’ll state what correction you want (for example, “Remove the Article 15 dated X from my record”) and the reasons why (citing injustice or error, and referencing the evidence you’re providing). Be clear and concise in explaining your case on the form and/or in an attached memorandum. Remember to attach copies of all the evidence from step 2 to support your request. You will send this application to the appropriate board:
    • Army: Army Board for Correction of Military Records (ABCMR)
    • Navy/Marine Corps: Board for Correction of Naval Records (BCNR)
    • Air Force (and Space Force): Air Force Board for Correction of Military Records (AFBCMR)
    • Coast Guard: Coast Guard Board for Correction of Military Records (often just referred to as the BCMR as well)
  4. Most boards require that you have exhausted other admin remedies first (which is why step 1 is important)​. The DD Form 149 can be submitted online via branch-specific portals (Army and Air Force have online systems, and the Navy accepts email submissions, per recent guidance)​. Alternatively, you can mail the form to the address listed on the form for your branch. Pro tip: Ensure you use the most current version of the DD 149 (available on official DoD websites) and follow any specific instructions from your branch’s BCMR website for submissions​. Once submitted, your application will be docketed for review. The board will gather any relevant advisory opinions (for example, from the Judge Advocate General or personnel command), and you’ll typically have a chance to respond to any advisory opinion that recommends denial​. This process can take some time, which leads to the next step.
  5. Be Patient and Follow Through. After submitting your petition, be prepared to wait several months (in some cases, over a year) for a decision. The boards receive thousands of applications annually, and cases are processed in order​. On average, it might take 6 to 18 months for the board to review your case and issue a decision​. During this time, check in periodically to ensure your application is on track (most boards will send an acknowledgment and a case number; you can usually contact the board’s support office with that number for status updates). While you wait, avoid any further disciplinary issues and continue building a positive service record — not only is this just good for your career, but if the board hasn’t decided yet, any new commendations or achievements could potentially be sent in as an update to bolster your case. When the board makes its decision, you’ll receive a written record of the findings. If your request is granted, the Board will direct the correction: for example, they may order that the Article 15 and all related entries be removed from your personnel file​. This means your official records will no longer show that Article 15, as if it never happened (aside from the Board’s own records, which are typically confidential). If the request is denied, all is not necessarily lost – you might have other options, such as submitting new evidence and requesting the board to reconsider, or appealing to a higher authority like a service Secretary or even a court in rare cases. However, rejections usually occur if the board did not find sufficient proof of an error or injustice. This is where having experienced legal counsel can make a difference in putting forward the strongest case initially.
  6. Explore Alternative Remedies (If Applicable). In some situations, an Article 15 might be tied to other issues that have their own processes. For example, if the Article 15 led to a discharge or a certain re-enlistment code, you might also consider a Discharge Review Board or appeals for upgrading discharge (if you separated within the last 15 years) as a parallel path. Or, if the underlying issue involves an official reprimand (like a letter of reprimand) in your file, there might be other avenues to address that (such as an Army DASEB appeal for moving a reprimand to a restricted file). These are situational, but worth mentioning. Generally, the BCMR route is the most comprehensive way to clean up your record. Additionally, if an Article 15 resulted from an incident that was also recorded in a law enforcement database (for instance, a drug offense that was reported to FBI records), you may have to follow up to ensure those external records are corrected once your Article 15 is removed. An example is the Army Crime Record Center process to remove “titling” of an offense from FBI records if the underlying matter is resolved in your favor. An attorney can advise on these collateral consequences.

Through each step of this process, don’t hesitate to seek legal guidance. The procedures and paperwork can be complex, and an experienced military law attorney (like those at NSLF) can help draft a persuasive petition, ensure all rules are followed, and maximize your chance of success. In fact, having counsel assist you often signals to the board that you are serious and have presented a well-organized case. Next, we’ll discuss why going through this effort can be truly career-saving and look at the benefits you stand to gain if your Article 15 is removed.

Benefits of Removing an Article 15 from Your Record

Why go through the hassle of trying to expunge an Article 15? Simply put, a clean record can vastly improve your military and post-military opportunities. Here are some key benefits of getting an Article 15 removed or corrected:

  • Career Advancement and Promotions: One of the biggest impacts of an Article 15 is on promotions. Promotion boards in all branches review your personnel file for any derogatory information. If an Article 15 is present, it can raise red flags about your judgment or reliability, often causing you to be passed over​. By removing the Article 15, you eliminate that hurdle. Your accomplishments can then speak for themselves without the shadow of past NJP. Many service members have reported that after an unjust Article 15 was wiped from their record, previously stalled promotions or selections suddenly moved forward. In essence, clearing your record levels the playing field so that you’re judged on merit and performance, not a past mistake or misunderstanding.
  • Reenlistment and Retention: If you love military service and want to make it a career, an Article 15 can be an obstacle to reenlistment or continued service. Some branches have reenlistment eligibility codes that might bar a service member from reenlisting if they have certain NJP or misconduct entries. By getting an Article 15 removed, you improve your chances of being able to reenlist or extend your service contract. This can be especially important if the Article 15 came early in your career and you’ve since proven yourself as a valuable member of the unit. A clean record tells the retention board or your commander that the prior issue is resolved and shouldn’t count against you moving forward​. In short, record correction can literally give you a second chance to continue serving.
  • Security Clearance Eligibility: Many military jobs (and subsequent civilian defense jobs) require a security clearance. When you apply for or renew a clearance, you must disclose disciplinary actions, and an Article 15 can trigger additional scrutiny. Depending on the nature of the offense, a past Article 15 could even lead an adjudicator to question your trustworthiness, potentially resulting in a clearance denial or revocation​. Removing an Article 15 from your file means that when background investigators review your military records, that incident won’t be there to raise concerns. This can smooth the path to obtaining or keeping a clearance, thereby safeguarding your eligibility for certain assignments, special duties, or post-service government contractor jobs. In essence, clearing the Article 15 may help ensure that a lapse in judgment (or an unjust accusation) doesn’t permanently bar you from roles that require a clean record.
  • Restored Reputation and Confidence: While not as quantifiable as promotions or clearances, there’s a personal benefit to having an Article 15 removed: peace of mind and restored reputation. Within your unit and career field, the absence of an NJP in your records means you’re no longer quietly carrying that mark on your back. This can boost your confidence and morale. You can compete for honors, schools, or leadership positions without worrying that someone will “find out” about that Article 15. Psychologically, knowing that the official record reflects your true character and contributions (and not a past mistake) can be a huge relief. It’s about reclaiming your honor and turning the page. Your superiors and peers may only ever know you as the outstanding soldier, Marine, sailor, airman, or Coast Guardsman that you are – not as someone who once received an NJP.
  • Better Post-Service Opportunities: Finally, consider life after the military. When you separate or retire, the characterization of your service and the contents of your service record can impact civilian opportunities. Although Article 15s themselves are not usually public record, certain federal or law enforcement job applications, as well as veteran security clearance checks, might delve into your military discipline history. If an Article 15 was tied to something reportable (like a drug offense, DUI, etc.), it might appear in background checks via military or federal databases. Removing the Article 15 preemptively can save you from awkward explanations later and ensure your DD-214 and service record speak only to your positive service. Additionally, some benefits and programs (for example, certain commissions or state licenses) ask if you had disciplinary actions in service; being able to confidently say “no” because the record was cleared can make those processes smoother. In short, a clean record sets you up for success both within the military and beyond.

In summary, the effort to remove an Article 15 is often well worth it. The return on investment can be seen in faster promotions, uninterrupted career progression, eligibility for sensitive roles, and overall a stronger professional profile​

Next, let’s illustrate how this process can play out with a couple of hypothetical examples that tie everything together.

Hypothetical Examples: Turning a Setback into a Comeback

Sometimes it helps to see how the process works in a real-world scenario. Below are two hypothetical examples (based on common situations service members encounter) showing how removing an Article 15 can lead to positive outcomes:

Example 1: Army NCO Overturns an Unjust Article 15

Scenario: Staff Sergeant “A” (Army) was punished with an Article 15 for an alleged misconduct (insubordination during a heated incident). He felt the Article 15 was unjust – several witnesses believed there was a misunderstanding and that his actions were not willful disobedience. Process: SSG A appealed the Article 15 to the battalion commander, but the appeal was denied, and the Article 15 was filed in his personnel record. Determined to clear his name, SSG A gathered written statements from those witnesses and a supportive letter from his company commander noting his outstanding performance both before and after the incident. After he left active duty, he applied to the Army Board for Correction of Military Records. In his petition, he argued that the Article 15 was an error or injustice, backing it up with the new witness statements that had not been considered initially. He also highlighted his Army Achievement Medals and excellent NCOER (evaluation report) since the NJP, proving the incident was out of character. Outcome: The ABCMR reviewed the case and determined that keeping the Article 15 on record would be unjust given the conflicting evidence and SSG A’s stellar service record. The board granted relief – ordering the Article 15 and all related documentation removed from his OMPF. A few months later, SSG A (now in the Army Reserve) found that he was selected for promotion to Sergeant First Class, a promotion that might not have been possible if the Article 15 remained in his file. He also pursued a civilian career that required a security clearance, and with a clean military record, his clearance process went through without a hitch. This example shows how a well-prepared appeal to the correction board, with strong evidence, can overturn an unjust Article 15 and remove its shadow from a soldier’s career.

Example 2: Navy Petty Officer Gets a Second Chance

Scenario: Petty Officer Second Class “B” (Navy) received a Captain’s Mast (NJP) for a off-base alcohol-related incident. She accepted responsibility for her mistake at the time and completed her punishment (reduction by one rank and extra duty). Over the next two years, however, PO2 B worked extremely hard to rehabilitate her standing – she earned her rank back, received commendatory evaluations, and even completed a Navy leadership course. Despite her improvements, the NJP remained in her record and was hurting her chances of being selected for an important special assignment (and ultimately, for Chief Petty Officer). Process: PO2 B consulted with a military law attorney and decided to petition the Board for Correction of Naval Records. In her application, she didn’t dispute that she made a mistake; instead, she focused on demonstrating that keeping the NJP on her record was now an injustice given how thoroughly she had redeemed herself. She provided letters from her current commanding officer and command master chief, both attesting to her exemplary conduct and leadership potential. She also included evidence that the incident was an isolated one: no other disciplinary issues in her six years of service. Since her NJP had not been set aside by the original command (it was too late for that), the BCNR was her only path. Outcome: The BCNR, after review, agreed to remove the record of the NJP from her file, essentially expunging the Captain’s Mast. Shortly thereafter, PO2 B was able to apply for the special assignment, and with her record clean, she was selected. Eventually, she competed for promotion to Chief without the NJP holding her back. This scenario highlights that even when an Article 15/NJP is deserved, if a service member shows substantial improvement and value to the service, the correction board may still grant relief as a matter of equity. It gave PO2 B a well-earned second chance, reinforcing the idea that one mistake shouldn’t define an entire career.

(These examples are hypothetical, but cases like these occur in all branches. In fact, review board dockets contain numerous instances of NJPs being removed for reasons such as proven innocence, procedural errors, or simply to reward post-NJP rehabilitation. Each case is decided on its merits, but with the right approach, outcomes like the above are achievable.)

Conclusion: Moving Forward with Professional Guidance

Removing an Article 15 from your military record can be a game-changer for your career and future opportunities. It’s about setting the record straight and ensuring that your service is represented fairly. The process may seem daunting—from navigating branch-specific rules to compiling evidence and waiting on board decisions. However, you don’t have to go it alone. National Security Law Firm (NSLF) is here to help. Our team of attorneys specializes in military law and has extensive experience with record correction cases, including Article 15 removals and appeals. We understand the nuances of each service’s system and know how to present a compelling case on your behalf. Whether you’re a soldier aiming for promotion, a sailor or Marine looking to reenlist or upgrade your career prospects, an airman concerned about your security clearance, or a Coast Guardsman wanting to clear your record, NSLF’s experts can guide you every step of the way.

Key Takeaway: An Article 15 doesn’t have to be the final word on your service. With knowledge of the process, perseverance, and the right support, you can petition for a clean slate. The result could mean greater career advancement, restored honor, and peace of mind knowing that your record reflects the true quality of your service​. If you’re considering pursuing an Article 15 removal or any military record correction, don’t hesitate to reach out to experienced counsel who can evaluate your case and help you strategize the best path forward. Your dedication to serving our nation should not be defined by a single incident—nor should your future be limited by it. With the right approach, you can put that Article 15 behind you and continue your military journey on the best possible terms.

Cost of Hiring a Lawyer for Your Article 15 Case

At National Security Law Firm, we provide clear, upfront pricing so you know exactly what to expect. If you’re facing Article 15 (Non-Judicial Punishment), we offer a flat fee of $2,500, which includes:

✅ Thorough Case Investigation – We analyze the allegations, gather evidence, and assess the strength of your case.
✅ Preparation & Strategic Planning – We craft a compelling defense, including written responses, mitigating evidence, and witness statements.
✅ Representation at the Article 15 Hearing – We advocate for you during the proceedings, working to minimize penalties or even get the charges dropped.
✅ Guidance on Article 15 vs. Courts-Martial – We help you understand your rights, the potential consequences of each option, and whether rejecting Article 15 in favor of a courts-martial is the right choice for your case.

Learn More About Article 15 Defense

Choosing NJP or court-martial is just the first step. To truly maximize your chances of a favorable outcome, you need to understand the best legal defenses, how to minimize penalties, and what mistakes to avoid. Visit our comprehensive Article 15 resource page to learn about:

  • Winning strategies for NJP hearings
  • Common defenses that can beat an Article 15
  • How to negotiate the best possible outcome
  • The true cost of an NJP vs. a court-martial
  • Mistakes that get service members kicked out—and how to avoid them

Why Choose National Security Law Firm?

When facing NJP or a court-martial, experience matters. The attorneys at National Security Law Firm are not just skilled military defense lawyers—we are battle-tested litigators with real-world experience in military justice. Here’s why service members trust us:

✅ Decades of Military Law Experience: Our team consists of former JAG officers, military prosecutors, retired federal judges, and defense attorneys who have handled thousands of cases like yours.

✅ Aggressive, Strategic Defense: We don’t back down. Our attorneys develop calculated strategies to maximize your chances of avoiding conviction, reducing penalties, or winning outright acquittals.

✅ Insider Knowledge of Military Justice: With extensive experience advising commands on Article 15 and court-martial procedures, we know how the military prosecutes these cases—and we use that knowledge to your advantage.

✅ Personalized Legal Guidance: No two cases are the same. We provide tailored legal strategies, ensuring that your defense is built around the specific facts of your case.

You’ve given your service to this country. Now let us serve you by protecting your rights, your career, and your future.

Don’t Make This Decision Alone—Get Experienced Legal Advice Now

At National Security Law Firm, we provide confidential consultations to help you understand your options and develop a game plan. Call us today at (202) 600-4996 or schedule a free consultation online: Book Now. 

We also offer legal financing options allowing you to pay your legal fees over monthly installments.

Check out our Google Reviews.

National Security Law Firm: It’s Our Turn to Fight for You!