Which discharge types cannot be upgraded by the Discharge Review Board (DRB)?

The correct answer is that bad-conduct or dishonorable discharges cannot be upgraded by the Discharge Review Board (DRB). This is due to the nature of these discharges, which are considered punitive in nature and are typically the result of court-martial proceedings. The DRB is empowered to review and make changes to certain types of discharges based on a variety of factors, such as the circumstances of the discharge and the service member's overall record. However, because bad-conduct and dishonorable discharges are given as a form of punishment for serious misconduct, they are not eligible for review and potential upgrade by the DRB.

In contrast, general discharges, although not as favorable as honorable discharges, may still be reviewed by the DRB. Honorable discharges exemplify a positive and commendable service record, and medical discharges are issued when a service member is released due to medical reasons. Both of these categories are open to review and can potentially be upgraded, unlike bad-conduct or dishonorable discharges, which are fundamentally linked to legal and disciplinary actions within the military justice system.