Category: USPHS

When Safe Harbor Isn’t Safe—And the Cost Is More Than Just a Career

Posted on by Becky Haugen

Broken Ranks: How Premature Discharges Are Stripping Armed and Unarmed Service Members of Their Rightful Benefits

Promise Undone

For every military officer or enlisted member, there is a finish line, commonly known as “safe harbor,” that represents not just years of service, but stability, dignity, and the promise of earned retirement. In federal terms, this often means reaching 18 to 20 years of service, at which point a service member becomes eligible for retirement benefits.

But that finish line is increasingly being moved or removed entirely.

From uniformed members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard to their non-armed counterparts in the U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) and NOAA Corps, stories are mounting: individuals relieved from duty without cause, stripped of retirement eligibility, and erased from service records before they can cross that critical threshold. The implications are not just administrative, they’re deeply human.

Who Is Protected—and Who’s Being Pushed Out?

Under the law, all uniformed service members fall under the same protective umbrella. The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) codified at 50 U.S. Code § 3911 explicitly includes:

“Members of the uniformed services, including the armed forces, the commissioned corps of the Public Health Service, and the commissioned corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.”

That means USPHS officers, many of whom served at the frontlines of public health crises like COVID-19 and monkeypox, and NOAA Corps officers, who support national environmental and security missions, are legally entitled to protections traditionally associated with the military. These include:

  • Relief from civil actions during active duty
  • Cap on loan interest rates
  • Protection from eviction and foreclosure
  • Termination rights for leases and contracts

What’s missing, however, is enforcement when administrative leadership decides arbitrarily or strategically to relieve someone just before they reach safe harbor.

Systemic Failures, Human Loss

Consider the case of Major Coleman, a reservist who was administratively separated just shy of retirement eligibility. Despite a formal acknowledgment from the Air Force Board for the Correction of Military Records that an error occurred, Coleman has not been reinstated. The result? A lifetime of military service erased: no pension, no benefits, no honor.

Cases like Coleman’s are not isolated. Reports of officers and senior enlisted personnel being denied reenlistment or separated without clear cause are becoming more frequent across services.

In 2025, the Department of Defense came under scrutiny when Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a major initiative to reduce senior officer positions under the banner “Less Generals, More GIs.” This reorganization aims to eliminate more than 120 general and flag officer positions, including active duty and National Guard billets, as part of a broader force restructuring (AP News, May 2025). Critics warn that such cuts could disproportionately impact those nearing retirement eligibility, particularly in the Army Reserve and National Guard, raising legal and ethical questions about whether such reductions are also being used to avoid future pension liabilities.

The Silent Impact on Unarmed Services

While headlines often focus on armed service members, unarmed uniformed personnel, like those in USPHS and NOAA Corps face similar risks with even less public scrutiny. These officers aren’t typically governed by the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), but are subject to involuntary separations for administrative reasons, including political shifts or agency restructurings.

Several Public Health Service officers who served during the pandemic have reported being placed on sudden administrative leave or being removed from leadership roles in the months leading up to eligibility for 20-year retirement, a devastating blow given the high-risk conditions under which many serve.

A Pattern Across Administrations

While these actions have become more visible under the current administration due to RIF orders and force realignment, they are not new. Both Democratic and Republican administrations have used quiet reductions to shrink federal spending or shift agency priorities. What is new is the volume and the precision with which these discharges are timed, often to occur just before retirement eligibility.

These moves are not just about dollars; they represent a betrayal of trust.

A Legal Fight Worth Having

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC, in Washington, DC specializing in military and federal employment law, represent numerous clients caught in this administrative crossfire. “We’re seeing a rise in unlawful terminations under the guise of restructuring,” Sheldon says. “It’s one thing to reform an agency or branch, it’s another to intentionally cut a service member short of the finish line.”

Sheldon emphasizes that these cases are winnable, but only if service members act quickly, document everything, and pursue appeals through Boards for Correction of Military or Naval Records or via litigation in federal court.

What’s at Stake

  • Financial Security: Loss of retirement income and health care for life.
  • Reputation: Discharges close to retirement are often perceived as disciplinary—even when they are administrative.
  • Mental Health: Service members describe feeling “discarded,” “betrayed,” and “humiliated” after decades of service.

Holding the Line

Safe harbor isn’t a loophole. It’s a promise made to every uniformed service member, armed or unarmed, that their dedication will be honored with dignity, not dismissed with a discharge memo days before eligibility. As more stories come to light, it’s incumbent on Congress, the media, and the public to scrutinize why these discharges are happening and who benefits from denying long-serving members their due.

Because the integrity of our institutions depends not just on those who serve, but on how we treat them when they are no longer needed.

 References & Resources

Disclaimer
The information contained in this release is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed by this communication.

Legal Victory for USPHS Commander Denied DOJ Representation

Posted on by Becky Haugen

WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 14, 2025) – The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC, a Washington, D.C.-based military and federal employment law firm, announces the successful resolution of a significant case involving a United States Public Health Service (USPHS) Commander who was personally sued for actions taken in the course of his federal duties.

The Commander had signed a lease agreement for a warehouse in furtherance of a government mission. Despite the agency’s approval and continued payment of the lease by the government for over two years, the agency later vacated the property and ceased payments. The property owner filed a personal lawsuit against the Commander in state court.

When the Commander requested legal representation from the Department of Justice (DOJ) under 28 C.F.R. § 50.15, the request was never acted upon. Without the representation to which he was entitled, the Commander was left to defend himself in court and was ultimately held liable.

With legal representation by Dylan Thayer of the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, the Commander filed suit in the United States Court of Federal Claims, asserting the government’s failure to follow required procedures. The case was ultimately resolved through a negotiated settlement, and the matter was dismissed with prejudice, bringing long-overdue closure for the officer and reinforcing the protections owed to federal personnel.

“This case reflects the real-world consequences federal employees face when agencies don’t fulfill their legal obligations,” said attorney Dylan Thayer. “We’re honored to have helped this Commander secure justice.”

About the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC, located in Washington, D.C., defends military service members and federal employees nationwide in both civil and criminal matters. The firm has decades of experience handling courts-martial, administrative boards, security clearance cases, and high-stakes federal litigation. Its attorneys are committed to safeguarding the rights of those who serve.

Contact Us:
Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC
100 M Street SE, Suite 600
Washington, DC 20003
202-546-9575
MilitaryDefense.com

 

Disclaimer:
This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Each case is unique and results may vary depending on specific facts and legal circumstances.

 

 

Honoring Service: Legal Team Wins Medical Retirement for Dedicated USPHS Officer

Posted on by Becky Haugen

April 4, 2025

Senior Public Health Service Officer Secures Medical Retirement with Legal Representation from the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A senior officer in the U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) Commissioned Corps has successfully obtained a medical retirement following an in-depth review by the Medical Review Board and final approval by the Office of the Surgeon General. The officer was represented by Annie Morgan, Senior Military Defense Attorney at the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC.

The officer served the nation with distinction for more than a decade, including frontline deployments during public health emergencies. Despite a history of exceptional service, the officer developed service-connected medical conditions that rendered continued service untenable. After a thorough review, the Medical Review Board recommended permanent medical retirement, which was approved with an effective retirement date.

Annie Morgan, the officer’s legal representative, praised the outcome:

“This result reflects both the strength of our client’s record and the importance of advocating for the rights of officers who can no longer serve due to medical conditions that they incurred while in service. We’re proud to stand beside those who’ve sacrificed their health in service to this country.”

This case marks yet another success for the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, which is nationally recognized for representing USPHS members, service members, officers, and federal employees in complex legal and administrative matters, including medical retirement, disability evaluation, courts-martial, and correction of military records.

About the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon

Located in Washington, D.C., the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon is a premier military law firm dedicated to defending the rights of U.S. service members and federal employees across all branches and uniformed services. The firm specializes in military justice, administrative law, disability and retirement proceedings, and appeals before military and federal courts. Led by founding attorney David P. Sheldon and supported by a team of seasoned litigators, the firm brings decades of experience and an unwavering commitment to justice.

Contact:

Law Offices David P. Sheldon, PLLC
202-546-9575
militarydefense.com

Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or legal representation. Individuals facing legal or administrative challenges should consult with a qualified attorney who is experienced in military and Federal law to receive guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.

 

 

Law Offices of David P. Sheldon Secures Disability and Retirement Benefits in Medical Evaluation Board Determination

Posted on by Becky Haugen

Washington, DC — April 1, 2025 — The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon announces a successful challenge to a Medical Evaluation Board (MEB) determination on behalf of a Commissioned Corps Officer. Following submission of an Officer Response Form requesting a Full & Fair Hearing with the Medical Appeals Board, the USPHS found the officer unfit for duty, not due to his misconduct, but due to his service-connected disability.  This allows him to earn his rightfully owned retirement benefits and corresponding VA benefits.

“When military service results in a disability, which prevents a service-member from finishing their career, they are entitled to compensation for that disability and to the retirement benefits they have rightfully earned,” said Senior Military Defense Attorney Annie Morgan. “We’re proud to have secured this fitness‑for‑duty determination, ensuring our client will have the resources – both financial and medical – to properly treat his service-connected disability moving forward.”

Law Offices of David P. Sheldon
202-546-9575
militarydefense.com

About the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon
The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, headquartered in Washington, D.C., is a nationally recognized firm specializing in military and federal employment law. With decades of combined experience, the firm advocates for servicemembers, veterans, and federal employees facing administrative injustices, ensuring their rights are protected and their records accurately reflect their service. Known for its commitment to integrity, personalized client service, and tenacious representation, the firm has successfully secured corrections of military records, restoration of benefits, and vindication of career reputations.

 

Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or legal representation. Individuals facing legal or administrative challenges should consult with a qualified attorney who is experienced in military and Federal law to receive guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.

 

Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC Clarifies Immunity of U.S. Public Health Service Officers from Personal Liability

Posted on by Becky Haugen

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC Clarifies Immunity of U.S. Public Health Service Officers from Personal Liability

 

Washington, D.C. – March 18, 2025 – The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC, a leading firm specializing in military and federal employment law, reaffirms that United States Public Health Service (PHS) officers are immune from personal liability for their official actions. Read the Ruling.

A recent inquiry posed the question of whether PHS officers need to obtain personal insurance for their official acts. The answer is a definitive no. The Supreme Court decision in Castaneda v. Hui, 599 U.S. 799 (2010) established that PHS officers, like our client a named Defendant in the case, are shielded from personal lawsuits under the Federal law.

In this landmark ruling, Justice Sonia Sotomayor, writing for a unanimous Court, made it clear that 42 U.S.C. § 233(a) expressly provides that the FTCA is the exclusive remedy for claims related to constitutional violations committed by PHS officers while acting within the scope of their official duties. The ruling precludes Bivens actions against individual officers, ensuring their legal protection in the performance of their critical public health responsibilities.

“This decision underscores the legal protections in place for PHS officers, reinforcing that personal liability is not a concern when they act within their official scope of duty,” said David P. Sheldon, Managing Partner at the firm. “Our firm is dedicated to defending the rights of service members and federal employees, ensuring that legal protections are properly understood and upheld.”

For more information about the legal rights of PHS officers or other federal employees, contact the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC at (202) 546-9575 or visit www.militarydefense.com.

About the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC—headquartered in Washington, D.C., the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC provides premier legal representation for military personnel, federal employees, and public service officers in a wide range of cases, including administrative actions, courts-martial, appeals, and federal employment law. With years of expertise, the firm is a trusted advocate for those serving in uniform and beyond.

Contact:
Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC
(202) 546-9575
www.militarydefense.com

 

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this press release is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or legal representation. Service members facing legal or administrative challenges should consult with a qualified attorney who is experienced in military law to receive guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.

 

 

Federal Employees and Commissioned Officers: The Battle Over Wrongful Termination and Reinstatement

Posted on by Becky Haugen

Federal Employees and Commissioned Officers: The Battle Over Wrongful Termination and Reinstatement

A recent federal court ruling has shaken the landscape for military, federal, and government employees, including commissioned officers under systems such as the Commissioned Officer Effectiveness Report (COER). This ruling, which orders the reinstatement of probationary employees who were wrongfully terminated, underscores the importance of accurate personnel records and the significant implications for career advancement, retirement eligibility, and benefits.

The Issue at Hand

A federal judge recently mandated that agencies rehire employees who were wrongfully terminated during their probationary periods, restoring full pay, benefits, and removing the termination from their personnel records. Agencies such as the Department of Transportation (DOT), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) have begun implementing this order, albeit with varying stipulations regarding administrative leave and return-to-work policies. However, the legal battle is far from over, with the Trump administration actively appealing the decision.

The Legal Implications for Federal and Military Employees

For many federal employees, a wrongful termination can have career-defining consequences. Federal workers rely on continuous service to qualify for promotions, tenure, and retirement benefits. The wrongful termination of an employee, particularly one in their probationary period, could mean lost time toward service credits that impact:

  • Retirement eligibility: Federal and military retirement systems are built on service years. A break in service or an incorrect record indicating termination could disqualify employees from reaching necessary service thresholds.
  • Promotions and career advancement: In competitive fields such as the U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS), military branches, and federal agencies, a termination on record—wrongfully or not—could unfairly hinder promotion eligibility and career progression.
  • Access to benefits: Benefits such as healthcare, pension plans, and administrative leave allowances are directly tied to employment records. A wrongful termination that is not corrected may permanently deprive employees of their rightful entitlements.

Correcting the Record: Legal Recourse for Federal and Military Employees

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon specialize in assisting military and federal employees in appealing wrongful terminations, navigating the Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR), and ensuring that personnel records accurately reflect continuous service. With this recent ruling, employees must act swiftly to:

  1. Ensure their records are corrected – The court order emphasizes that terminated employees must have their records expunged of termination notices, ensuring their official personnel folders (OPF) reflect uninterrupted service.
  2. Seek legal assistance for appeals – Employees who suspect wrongful termination or adverse personnel actions should seek legal guidance to navigate appeals through agencies such as the BCMR or the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB).
  3. Protect future benefits and career progression – If termination records are not corrected, employees may face challenges in qualifying for future employment, retirement benefits, and promotions.

A Precarious Future for Federal Workers

Despite the court ruling, the political landscape remains uncertain. The Trump administration has vowed to appeal the decision, and agencies are submitting workforce reduction plans that could lead to further layoffs. With millions of federal employees in limbo, vigilance is necessary to ensure fair treatment and protection of career rights.

For military and federal workers facing wrongful termination or service record discrepancies, legal intervention is crucial. The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon continue to advocate for federal employees, ensuring their records are corrected, their rights are defended, and their careers remain on track. If you or someone you know is affected by these emerging issues, seeking legal counsel promptly can make the difference between lost career opportunities and a restored future in federal service.

About the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon is a premier legal firm dedicated to defending the rights of military personnel, federal employees, and government workers. With extensive experience in military justice, federal employment law, and appeals, the firm provides expert legal counsel for those facing wrongful termination, service record corrections, and administrative appeals.

For more information or to schedule an initial consultation, visit www.militarydefense.com or call (202) 546-9575.

Resources

 

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this article is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or legal representation. Service members facing legal or administrative challenges should consult with a qualified attorney who is experienced in military law to receive guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.

Why Military Members Choose The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon for Medical Evaluation Board Defense

Posted on by Becky Haugen

Defending Your Career: Why Military Members Choose The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon for Medical Evaluation Board Defense

For both uniformed and non-uniformed military members, the prospect of facing a Medical Evaluation Board (MEB) can be daunting. The consequences of an unfavorable MEB outcome can significantly jeopardize a service member’s career, benefits, and future opportunities. This is where the expertise of The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon comes into play, providing robust legal guidance and representation during one of the most challenging phases of a military career.

Navigating the Complex MEB Process

The MEB process is inherently complicated. Whether you are an active-duty service member or part of the United States Public Health Service (USPHS), the evaluation involves a rigorous review of your medical fitness and readiness. A misstep in this process may result in severe repercussions, including loss of career credits, promotions, and even benefits. The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon specialize in ensuring that every step of the MEB process is handled with precision. Their legal guidance ensures that:

  • Members’ Rights Are Protected: By providing thorough representation, they work to ensure that the proper reviews are conducted, safeguarding the service member’s legal rights.
  • Career and Benefits Are Secured: The firm’s proactive approach helps maintain a member’s present career status while also preserving long-term benefits, promotions, and medical funding.
  • Informed Decisions Are Made: Navigating an MEB requires accurate and current information. The firm assists in ensuring that every decision is well-informed and in the best interest of the service member’s career.

The Critical Role of Legal Representation

Uniformed and non-uniformed military members alike face significant challenges during the MEB process. The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon understand that the stakes are high. When a member is confronted with allegations regarding readiness or fitness, the impact can extend far beyond immediate career setbacks. Legal representation becomes indispensable because:

  • It Provides Expert Guidance: With specialized knowledge in military and public health service law, the firm is well-equipped to challenge unjust decisions and protect the client’s interests.
  • It Secures Long-Term Career Prospects: Proper legal support can be the difference between an MEB decision that derails a career and one that fairly represents the member’s potential for future service and advancement.
  • It Reduces the Risk of Injustice: An MEB is not just a review of medical conditions; it is a directional shift in a member’s career. Without the support of experienced legal counsel, service members risk losing hard-earned benefits and career achievements.

The Importance of Timely MEB Retirement

A critical aspect often overlooked in the discussion of MEBs is the timing of retirement from the board. When members are retired from the MEB process at an appropriate rate, several key benefits emerge:

  • Prevention of Career Disruption: Timely retirement from the MEB can prevent prolonged uncertainty and the potential loss of career credits. It ensures that service members can continue to pursue their professional goals without undue interruption.
  • Maintaining Readiness and Fitness: For both uniformed and non-uniformed members, being retired from the MEB process at the right time helps maintain their operational readiness and ensures that their physical and mental fitness is accurately represented.
  • Protecting Future Opportunities: When legal experts secure an appropriate rate of MEB retirement, it safeguards a member’s eligibility for promotions, advanced training, and future service opportunities. This not only protects current career standing but also sets the stage for long-term success.

A Partnership Built on Trust and Expertise

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon have built a reputation for providing the highest level of care to service members facing the MEB process. Their commitment to excellence, deep understanding of military and public health service regulations, and a track record of successful case management make them an invaluable ally for any military member. By hiring their services, members are not merely hiring a lawyer; they are securing a partnership dedicated to defending their rights, preserving their career achievements, and ensuring a just evaluation process.

Conclusion

For uniformed and non-uniformed military members facing the daunting challenges of a Medical Evaluation Board, expert legal representation is not just beneficial—it is essential. The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon offer comprehensive legal support designed to protect service members’ rights, secure long-term career benefits, and ensure that the MEB process is handled fairly and efficiently. By prioritizing appropriate retirement from the MEB process, they help safeguard not only the immediate career prospects of service members but also their future in service.

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this article is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or legal representation. Service members facing legal or administrative challenges should consult with a qualified attorney who is experienced in military law to receive guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.

Unraveling the Safety Net: The Impact of Federal Layoffs on Disaster Response and Veterans’ Services

Posted on by Becky Haugen

The recent mass terminations initiated by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) have sent shockwaves through the federal workforce, disproportionately affecting veterans, U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officers, and essential government employees. These abrupt layoffs not only threaten the livelihoods of dedicated public servants but also undermine critical government functions, including disaster response, public health initiatives, and national security preparedness.

These terminations highlight the erosion of institutional knowledge, the impact on emergency response capabilities, and the alarming loss of benefits for those who have dedicated their lives to serving the country.

Veterans and Federal Service: A Fragile Relationship

For decades, federal employment has served as a crucial avenue for veterans transitioning to civilian life. Many rely on these roles for stability, career growth, and access to benefits tied to their years of service. However, DOGE’s recent workforce reductions have disproportionately targeted veterans, stripping them of job security, health benefits, and earned retirement contributions.

One of the major concerns raised by affected individuals is the lack of clarity in the termination process. Federal employees were dismissed despite outstanding performance evaluations and decades of dedicated service. Many were caught off guard by termination notices received via email, which effectively locked them out of government systems before they could retrieve personnel employment records.

Implications for National Disaster Preparedness

The mass layoffs extend beyond personal hardships—they severely hinder the government’s ability to respond to catastrophic events. Veterans and USPHS officers, many of whom specialize in emergency response and public health crisis management, are vital assets in times of national crises. The termination of experienced professionals weakens disaster preparedness efforts and leaves the nation vulnerable in situations requiring immediate government intervention.

For instance, one of the officers impacted by the terminations played a leading role in coordinating responses to measles outbreaks in Texas and border health security. The dismissal raises questions about how the government plans to maintain public health initiatives without seasoned professionals in key positions.

The Legal Battle: A Fight for Reinstatement

As these terminations unfold, legal battles are emerging, with many affected employees seeking recourse through the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) and federal courts. However, the process is neither simple nor swift. Many former federal employees have found that their veteran status does not afford them the protections they expected in cases of reduction in force (RIF).

Law firms specializing in federal employment disputes are now representing groups of affected workers, advocating for reinstatement and back pay. While some agencies have begun reinstating terminated employees following legal challenges, others, such as the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), have taken a stance to let court proceedings determine the outcome.

One such firm leading the charge is The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon. With a deep understanding of military and federal employment law, the firm is actively supporting affected members in defending their rights. They are assisting former federal employees in filing MSPB appeals, navigating reinstatement requests, and pursuing legal action to recover lost wages and benefits. For those facing wrongful termination, seeking experienced legal counsel is a crucial step toward justice.

A Disjointed Bureaucracy: Inconsistent Policies on Veterans’ Rights

One of the more troubling aspects of these terminations is the inconsistent treatment of veterans within the federal workforce. While veterans qualify for preference in hiring, many do not receive the same protection when facing workforce reductions. Some terminated USPHS officers found that their years of service counted toward retirement but not toward probationary periods, effectively disqualifying them from reinstatement appeals.

This discrepancy highlights a fundamental flaw in the system—one that must be addressed to ensure that those who have dedicated their lives to public service are not left in limbo when policies shift.

Broader Consequences for Federal Agencies and Public Trust

The broader implications of DOGE’s actions go beyond individual hardship. The mass layoffs erode public trust in government institutions, weaken essential services, and create uncertainty for current and future federal employees. The perception that even high-performing, long-serving employees can be abruptly dismissed without recourse may deter top talent from pursuing federal careers, further diminishing the government’s ability to attract and retain skilled professionals.

A Call for Transparency and Reform

As affected federal employees navigate legal channels, it is crucial for policymakers to address the structural issues that have allowed these terminations to take place with such devastating consequences. Transparency in the layoff process, stronger protection for veterans and public health professionals, and a reassessment of federal workforce policies are necessary steps toward rebuilding trust and restoring stability.

For those impacted, the fight is far from over. Advocacy groups, legal experts, and affected individuals continue to push for reforms that will protect future generations of federal employees from experiencing similar injustices. The question remains: will policymakers act before the damage becomes irreversible?

About The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon is a premier legal firm specializing in military and federal employment law. With decades of experience advocating for service members, veterans, and federal employees, the firm is dedicated to protecting the rights of those who serve. From MSPB appeals to federal court litigation, the firm provides comprehensive legal representation to individuals facing wrongful termination, reduction in force (RIF) actions, and benefit disputes. If you or someone you know has been affected by the recent federal workforce reductions, The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon stands ready to help. Contact the firm today to explore your legal options and defend your rights.

For more information, please visit www.militarydefense.com or contact the firm at:

Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC
100 M Street, S.E., Suite 600
Washington, DC 20003
Phone: (202) 546-9575
Fax: (202) 546-0135

References

The Musk-Trump War on Federal Employees Doesn’t Add Up

Disabled veteran, laid off from VA, to join Schumer at Trump speech

Over 1,000 protest NOAA scientist layoffs in Colorado

Project 2025 Seeks to Dismantle Agencies, Terminate Up To 1 Million Federal Workers

Mass Firing of Federal Workers Endangers Economy, Public Services

ChatGPT. “Collateral Damage: How DOGE’s Workforce Cuts Threaten Veterans’ Benefits and Public Safety.” Last modified March 4, 2025. MilitaryDefense.com

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this article is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or legal representation. Service members facing legal or administrative challenges should consult with a qualified attorney who is experienced in military law to receive guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.

Legal Action on Behalf of Retired USPHS Member Challenging Injustice in Federal Public Health Service Record Correction Case

Posted on by Becky Haugen

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC Files Legal Action Challenging Injustice in Public Health Service Record Correction Case

Washington, D.C. – February 28, 2025 – The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC, a premier law firm specializing in military and federal employment law, has filed a lawsuit on behalf of a distinguished former officer of the United States Public Health Service (PHS) Commissioned Corps. The complaint, filed in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia, challenges a federal agency’s refusal to grant relief despite findings of injustice by an official military correction board.

Represented by Dylan Thayer, a federal litigator, the plaintiff—an officer with the rank of Commander—seeks to overturn a decision by the Program Support Center Director that disregarded evidence of wrongful termination and procedural violations. The lawsuit asserts that the officer was unfairly separated from service despite a military records board’s acknowledgment that her supervisors failed to address critical signs of an underlying medical condition.

“This case exemplifies a fundamental failure to ensure justice for those who have dedicated their careers to public service,” said attorney Dylan Thayer. “Despite a finding of injustice by the Board for Correction of PHS Commissioned Corps Records, the final decision-maker arbitrarily denied relief, disregarding both the evidence and the governing legal standards.”

The lawsuit contends that the agency’s decision violated federal law, failed to correct a clear injustice, and deprived the officer of due process rights under the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. The plaintiff is seeking a remand of the case to the Board for a lawful review that adheres to applicable statutes and regulations.

About the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC, based in Washington, D.C., is a nationally recognized firm specializing in military law, federal employment disputes, security clearance matters, and appellate litigation. With a track record of successfully advocating for service members, veterans, and federal employees, the firm remains committed to securing justice for those who serve our nation.

For more information, please visit www.militarydefense.com or contact the firm at:

Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC
100 M Street, S.E., Suite 600
Washington, DC 20003
Phone: (202) 546-9575
Fax: (202) 546-0135

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this press release is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or legal representation. Service members facing legal or administrative challenges should consult with a qualified attorney who is experienced in military law to receive guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.