“Justice For A Chaplain”: Federal Court Sides With Army Officer

A U.S. Army captain and chaplain has won an important legal victory in federal court after a years-long effort to clear her record of an unjust reprimand. The U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia has ruled that the Army’s decision to reject a military review board’s recommendation to remove the reprimand was “arbitrary and capricious,” sending the matter back to the Secretary of the Army for reconsideration.

The officer, a decorated chaplain with nearly a decade of service, was stationed at the prestigious 101st Airborne Division when a professional conflict led to a series of investigations. Though she was never formally relieved of duty and was recommended for retention by a Board of Inquiry, a General Officer Memorandum of Reprimand (GOMOR) remained in her permanent file, potentially jeopardizing her career, future promotions, and retirement benefits.

The Army’s own Board for Correction of Military Records agreed with the officer’s appeal and voted to have the reprimand removed. But in April 2024, a Deputy Assistant Secretary overruled that decision with a brief one-paragraph denial, offering no substantial explanation.

In a strongly worded opinion issued July 14, 2025, Judge Sparkle L. Sooknanan criticized the Army’s handling of the case, stating the decision lacked adequate reasoning and failed to consider the Board’s findings. The court has now ordered the Army to revisit the matter and provide a lawful, properly reasoned decision.

“This ruling doesn’t just impact one officer, it sends a message that accountability and fairness still matter, even in military bureaucracy,” said Dylan Thayer of the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC, who represents the officer. “It’s a step toward restoring a distinguished career that was nearly derailed by an unexplained administrative action.”

The officer has served honorably as a chaplain supporting the emotional and spiritual well-being of soldiers under pressure. Her reinstatement into good standing would preserve her opportunity for continued service and eventual military retirement.

About The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC

Based in Washington, D.C., The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon represents military service members and federal employees across the globe in matters involving military justice, adverse actions, security clearances, medical retirement, and records corrections. The firm is nationally known for its commitment to justice, integrity, and results.

Disclaimer:

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every legal situation is unique. If you are facing an issue involving a military reprimand or adverse personnel action, contact a qualified attorney for legal counsel.

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

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.