Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 8/13/2008

Question
hi i have a question about Compassion reassignments once one receives a Compassion reassignments and are at there new unit they have 1 year for the problem to be resolved before then can be sent anywhere does this include any duty like schooling or deployment or extended tdy over 3 weeks and what REG is the guideline for this

Answer
Dear James --

Compassionate reassignments put you in a better location to deal with whatever issues your family might have.  It protects you from another PCS to a remote location, and a deployment overseas.  If your issue cannot be resolved within a year, you need to request a compassionate curtailment or your current enlistment.

During a compassionate reassignment tour you may be asked to go on routine TDY trips, or to training.  However, you should be able to request that your command defer you from these trips and training opportunities, if such absences will put your family at additional risk medically, financially or emotionally.

You need to talk honestly with your new chain of command about your situation and your family's needs.  You may need to get Army Emergency Relief involved as an advocate for you and your family.  Visit your local Judge Advocate General's (JAG) office to get information on your rights and responsibilities as a Soldier with family issues.

The regulation that governs compassionate reassignments is AR 614-200.  You can find an copy of this regulation on Army Knowledge Online.

Good luck to you and your family; thank you for your service.