Army Extends Deployment Deferments for Mothers of Newborns
Sunday July 27, 2008
Current Army policies allows a four month deployment deferrment for female Soldiers who are mothers of newborn babies, or one member of a dual-military couple who adopt a child. The Army has announted that they plan to extend the deferment to six months, beginning August 1. The new police applies to active duty, Guard, and Reserve members.
The Navy policy currently allows for 12 month deferments, the Marine Corps authorizes 6 month deferments, and the Air Force allows 4 month deferments.
The Navy policy currently allows for 12 month deferments, the Marine Corps authorizes 6 month deferments, and the Air Force allows 4 month deferments.
Why does DOD allow the services to adopt their own brands of deferment policy. One would think that the child, irregardless of mom’s uniform, would appreciate a given time to do the bonding thing before mom’s picking up her weapon and moving out. Inasmuch as the services live and breath…for good reason…on standardization, this would be an excellent place to demonstrate that concept. To do otherwise vividly illustrates a toe-in-the-water commitment to young military families.
Sarge
I am in agreement with Sarge. Children who are adopted already come with issues and then to be introduced to the military community is a huge cultural change, adjustment. The Navy has it right. I am glad that the Army has increased it’s time, but I do hope that the Army, Air Force and Marines will follow the Navy’s lead on this one. Children, especially hurting children need time to adjust emotionally and mentally. Four months won’t cut it.