Resolving Unacceptable Relationships
General. Avoiding unacceptable personal relationships is in the best interest of all concerned. Training, counseling, and administrative actions help prevent unacceptable personal relationships or minimize detrimental effects when unacceptable relationships develop. Prompt resolution at the lowest level possible is desirable.
Training. Avoiding unacceptable and prohibited interpersonal relationships requires that personnel clearly understand Coast Guard policy and its application. The unit training program is an ideal forum to accomplish this. Training on "FRATERNIZATION AND INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS" shall be conducted at all officer and enlisted accession points and at resident training courses (leadership school, "A" and "C" schools, etc.). Training at other units is strongly encouraged.
Counseling. Early counseling often can resolve potential concerns about the characteristics of a relationship and appropriate actions to ensure the relationship develops in a manner consistent with Service custom. Counseling may be informal or more formal, including written documentation by Administrative Remarks (Form CG-3307) or an Administrative Letter of Censure. Counseling may include a direct order to terminate a relationship.
Personnel Reassignment. Members may request or a command may recommend reassignment of a member involved in a questionable relationship. However, reassignment is not a preferred option. The Coast Guard is not obligated to reassign personnel due to members' desires or based solely on a relationship. When reassignment is not an option, members may be directed to end a relationship.
Evaluations. When members do not respond favorably to counseling, comments and marks in officer and enlisted evaluations may be appropriate.
Other Administrative Action. As warranted, commands may recommend separation, removal or withdrawal of advancement recommendations, appointment to another status, or promotions.
Disciplinary Action. Nonjudicial punishment or courts-martial may address fraternization or other unlawful or prohibited relationships or conduct.
