Final answer:
Proof of an honorable discharge is typically shown with a DD Form 214. This document indicates the nature of discharge and is necessary for veterans to claim benefits and avoid discrimination faced by those with blue or undesirable discharges in the past.
Step-by-step explanation:
The documents required to prove an honorable discharge from military service typically include a DD Form 214, also known as the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. This document would clearly state the nature of a service member's discharge, indicating whether it was honorable, general, other than honorable, bad conduct, or dishonorable. Service members discharged prior to receiving benefits due to the nature of their discharge, such as those who received blue discharges or undesirable discharges, reflecting discriminatory practices of the past. The blue discharge, which was used disproportionately against gay and lesbian service members post-World War II, was neither dishonorable nor honorable, but it did prevent veterans from accessing benefits and could lead to discrimination in civilian life. In 1947, the Blue Discharge was discontinued, replaced by an undesirable discharge category, which continued the discrimination against gay and lesbian service members. An honorable discharge document, such as the DD Form 214, is important for veterans as it entitles them to various benefits and is needed for many post-service opportunities.