Marines extending overseas tours get 5 more days of leave

[unhappycamper]

More leave time
Marines serving overseas can earn a extra leave


Marines extending overseas tours get 5 more days of leave
By Bryan Mitchell - [e-mail]
Posted : Sunday Oct 12, 2008 13:59:20 EDT

Marines serving overseas can now earn an extra week of administrative leave back in the States if they volunteer for another tour.

The plan, part of the Overseas Tour Incentive program, provides 20 leave days — up from 15 — to Marines who have served at least one year at designated overseas locations and agree to stay at least one year longer, said Capt. Paul Hilliard, analyst for the Corps’ Manpower Plans and Policy division. The deal includes paid transport to the U.S.

The offer, extended to enlisted Marines and officers, is meant to improve continuity and save money by reducing costly permanent change-of-station moves. It became effective Sept. 10.

There are about 18,500 Marines serving in Japan and Okinawa, and an additional 1,500 in Europe.

The Overseas Tour Incentive is part of a Congressional mandate and is separate from the rest and recuperation program for Marines deployed to combat zones, Hilliard said.


Article at: http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2008/10/marine_leave_101208w/%2e