In a recent memo addressing service members’ ability to take and manage leave, Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness Matthew Donovan issued an order authorizing the accumulation of leave from March 11th to September 30th.
“The department’s actions to stem the spread of COVID-19 has significantly limited the ability of service members to take leave during this national emergency. Leave is vital to the continued health and welfare of our Service members and civilian workforce,” said the memo.
The order stipulates that during this period, US troops may accumulate annual leave in excess of 60 days, not to exceed 120 days. Members can retain unused leave up to September 30, 2023. “Commanders will continue to encourage and provide members with the opportunity to use their leave in the year in which it is earned,” states the order.
Photo by Ryan Brooks/U.S. Air Force