[navydad]

Medically retired or medically discharged? There's a big difference.

[BigBadBrian]

Yes. While Jessica was mostly likely ready to get out as well, she probably didn't have a choice.

In the military, certain illnesses preclude one from being "fit for duty." A Medical Board is initiated and returns a finding of being fit or not. If found unfit, a disability rating is assigned based upon the injuries, using the guidlines the VA uses. A rating of 30% or more earns a member military retirement, not just a discharge. I know the system well, I'm medically retired (after 16 years of service) myself.

[judicial meanz]

If it is over 30% disability, she will be medically retired. Less than 30%, its a medical discharge.

[flyer182]

She was medically retired, not discharged. Which is correct regardless of the feelings toward her medals or for being a female in the service.