Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 2/27/2008

Question
Hello Ma'am my question to is if i re-enlisted last June for an assignment in Germany. However I will be getting married 4 months before my report date to a man whom is in the army as well. He is going is reclassing the same tim i am supposed to go to Germany. How will us getting married affect my assignment.. will we be able to get assigned together.

Answer
Dear Katie -

Once you are married, you and your new husband must apply for joint domicile. This program will try to ensure you are assigned within commuting distance of each other. This can be complicated by an overseas assignment because we have fewer installations and fewer people assigned to those installations than we have had in the past.

You and your fiance should talk to your branch managers as soon as possible and tell them your plans. Your managers should check to see what is available so you can be stationed close to each other. You may have to give up your assignment to Germany, if they cannot find a job for your future husband there.

The branch your fiance is reclassifying into could make a difference in how easy it is for branch to find him in job in Germany. Try to be flexible and consider all the options branch offers you before you make your decision. You may have to have a significant period of separation before your branches are able to assign you close together.

The earlier you have your marriage certificate and register for joint domicile, the sooner your branches can take action to help you. You might consider a civil ceremony now and still have your formal wedding when you have it scheduled. That way you will be married before your orders are cut, and your new husband will more likely get orders to join you in Germany once his reclassification training is complete.

Good luck to both of you. Thank you for serving.