AR 135-178 — Enlisted Administrative Separations
AR 135-178 governs policies, standards, and procedures for the orderly administrative separation of Reserve enlisted Soldiers.
- Publication number: AR 135-178
- Title: ENLISTED ADMINISTRATIVE SEPARATIONS
- Date: 06/06/2025
- Proponent: G-1
- Status: ACTIVE
View AR 135-178 on armypubs.army.mil
It addresses separation reasons, service characterization, service obligations, body composition standards, and qualitative retention. It sets criteria for separation and retention decisions, including rehabilitation, hardship, and board consideration.
Topics covered
- Administrative separation
- Separation and characterization
- Service obligations
- Dependency or hardship
- Army body composition standards
- Qualitative Retention Program
- Ready Reserve participation
Questions and answers
What should happen before separation proceedings begin?
As a general matter, reasonable efforts at rehabilitation should be made prior to initiation of separation proceedings. (paragraph 1-5)
What factors may be considered when deciding retention or separation?
The seriousness of the circumstances forming the basis for initiation of separation proceedings and the effect of the Soldiers continued retention on military discipline, good order, and morale. (paragraph 1-5)
How is service characterized when a Soldier completes the statutory service obligation?
The service of a Soldier being discharged on expiration of the term of an enlistment, reenlistment, or on fulfillment of a statutory MSO will be characterized as honorable except as provided in paragraph 1 28. (paragraph 4-5)