What is a Chapter 13 Army discharge?

A Chapter 13 discharge from the Army indicates that the soldier has been released from service due to unsatisfactory performance. This may be due to a failed PT test, a failed weapons qualification or required training or simply if the commanding officer believes the soldier cannot perform required duties.

Before a Chapter 13 can occur, it must be shown that further attempts at rehabilitation will have no effect, that the retention of the soldier will have a negative impact on the unit or the Army, that there is little or no potential for advancement, and that the circumstances causing the problem are not likely to end in the near future.