text: Technically, you've served in the military.  So, your honestly answer should be "Yes".\n\nHowever, it may impede your chances of employment.\n\nIf you apply of government jobs and you answer "no" and they find out otherwise, you can not only face losing your job, but also face criminal fines and/or jail time.  This goes the same if you apply for some government contractor's job.\n\nSome states and with some bigger companies (like Best Buy) can seek charges if you falsified any information on your official application.\n\nServing in the military and receiving an OTH discharge because of being AWOL is just as bad as going to jail or had charges with a crime.\n\nIt doesn't matter whether you finished training or not.  You signed on the dotted line and said I swear/affirm.  The fact that your DD Form 214 or other documents state that you were discharged from military service, shows you had served.  Good thing for you, you didn't received a Dishonorable Discharge (this is worse), instead you got an Other Than Honorable.\n\nIt sucks but it would behoove you to be honest, because at least it will show them you have integrity.  Just be honest and upfront why you went AWOL and why the military was a mistake for you.