Present for duty: Airmen cannot take leave on date of re-enlistment

Published Oct. 26, 2010
82nd Comptroller Squadron

SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Re-enlistment is an occasion in which Airmen, family and friends celebrate a person's decision to continue military service to their country. Unfortunately, that celebration cannot include taking leave on the day of re-enlistment, according to Air Force Instruction 36-2606.

The AFI specifically states that "Commanders ensure Airmen are present for duty at their home stations on the re-enlistment date."

Exceptions to an Airman re-enlisting at their home duty station includes: TDY status, emergency leave, hospitalization or if the Airman is in a pipeline status such as attending a school or returning from overseas.

If an Airman chooses to take leave around the time of their re-enlistment, the leave must end the day prior to re-enlistment. The Airman can then choose to continue leave the day after re-enlistment. The reason for this is the leave balance of the old period of service must close out, and leave for the new period of service begins.

For more information, call Finance Customer Service at (940) 676-4864 or send an e-mail to finance.customerservice@sheppard.af.mil.