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Army Enlisted Voluntary Early Separation Program

Tuesday February 11, 2014

What is it?

The Enlisted Voluntary Early Separation Program is one method, chosen by Army senior leaders, to sustain appropriate total force readiness, manage talent and achieve congressionally mandated end-strength. This program will authorize early separation for regular Army enlisted Soldiers prior to their Expiration Term of Service (ETS), in two categories.

The first category includes Soldiers serving in over strength skills who are ultimately denied reenlistment by Headquarters, Department of the Army (HQDA) and voluntarily request early separation (up to 90 days). Final reenlistment determinations will be based upon Army requirements, eligibility for reenlistment and eligibility for reclassification into a shortage or balanced skill. The second category includes Soldiers approaching their ETS who have chosen not to reenlist or extend and voluntarily request early separation for the purpose of accepting employment (up to 180 days).

What has the Army done?

The Army has transformed its Transition Assistance Program (TAP) to give Soldiers the greatest opportunity for a successful post-service career. Army transition efforts encompass multiple programs focusing on TAP participation, in accordance with laws and policy.

In order to support Army-wide transition, the Army Transition Division synchronizes stakeholders and leverages their capabilities to ensure every eligible Soldier receives employment skills enhancement, Army Career Alumni Program services and meets Veterans Opportunity to Work/ Career Readiness standards. The department also assists with connecting Soldiers to education and meaningful employment. The Army will afford Soldiers as much time as possible, but no less than 90 days to focus on transition activities to ensure Soldiers and their families are prepared for the transition from active service.

What continued efforts does the ARNG have planned for the future?

As the economic and operational environment evolve, the Army continues to review policies and procedures that strike the best balance between the quality of life for Soldiers and their families, maintaining personnel readiness, and fielding combat ready forces.

Why is this important to the Army?

America’s Army needs to drawdown in order to balance readiness and meet the needs of a smaller force. This endeavor cannot be achieved by natural attrition alone. Allowing certain regular Army enlisted Soldiers to voluntarily request early separation prior to ETS, supports the goals of the Army’s Transition Assistance Program. Despite all the changes the Army experiences during drawdown, the Army’s absolute commitment to taking care of Soldiers and their families will remain constant

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