Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/Bonus recoupment

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Question
After active duty in 2009 I enilisted in the ANG and I got a lump sum srip bous of $20,000. After a year in the guard I recieved a medical discharge due to medical disabilities recieved in the line of duty. The orders I recieved say termination of srip bonus, "No". I just got a letter from DFAS saying they are recouping my bonus for time not served. From what I found online is that congress passed a law protecting wounded warriors. How do I challenge this? My old unit doesnt care and they said my orders are wrong... ANG really knows how to take care of soldiers I tell ya!

Answer
Look at your bonus contract and see what is says.  Medical discharges are no recouped if it was no fault of the soldier.

That copy of your contract spells out why they can recoup and why they can't.  If issues persit, talk to a VA rep and see what they recommend, they can point you in the right direction, if your unit is being that way, they do not deserve to serve.

Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard

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John L

Expertise

I am a National Guard recruiter , been doing it for seven years and am a subject matter expert on qualifications for National Guard and I keep up to date on Regular Army regs and programs. I was in the Navy for 4 years and have 13 years in the Guard. I will not sugar coat my answers to you. They are usually short and to the point. If you need more in depth, ask me. Because each situation is different, alot of times you need to actually talk to a recruiter and let them evaluate your situation in person, by looking at your documents, issues etc. If I suggest this, it would be in your best interest to do so. Finally...thank you for your interest in serving this great nation of ours. Very few people can actually make the cut to serve let alone choose to do so. So thank you for wanting to and hopefully you will get a chance. Whatever branch you choose, thank you and good luck.

Experience

13 years Guard experince, combat missions and homeland missions. 7 years recruiting. I have been a platoon sergeant and squad leader. Mentor to new recruiters and recruits.

Education/Credentials
Recruiters course and advanced courses in recruiting

Awards and Honors
Top recruiter in district for FY 2008. Nominated for recruiter of the year for 2010.

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