Discharge and Transportation: The Challenges and Solutions for Military Members

While the Department of Defense (DoD) strives to make the discharge process as smooth as possible, there can often be complications, especially when it comes to transportation. This article aims to address some of the common issues faced by service members who are discharged and struggle to get back to their home of record. We will also explore some practical solutions and options available.

What Happens to Military Members Who Are Discharged but Have a Hard Time Getting Back Home

It is a common misconception that if a person is discharged and having trouble getting home, it is entirely their own fault. While the military does make efforts to assist with transportation, there are indeed cases where complications arise, and specialized help may be required.

The DoD ensures that troops and their families are transported to their home of record free of charge. This service includes not only the individual but also their family members, vehicles, and belongings. If a civilian airliner is needed, the military will provide one at no cost. However, the DoD's responsibility ends once the individual reaches their home of record. Any further arrangements, such as alternative accommodations or destinations, are not their issue to resolve. This means that if you decide to take a riskier route, such as hitchhiking across the country and losing all your cash along the way, that would be solely your responsibility.

Transportation Options and Reimbursements

The DoD provides travel expenses to help service members get home, making arrangements to transport members home through Military OneSource and other resources. These expenses can cover various forms of transportation, ensuring that returning service members have the means to travel back to their home of record. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to claim your travel expenses: Documentation: Keep detailed receipts for all travel-related expenses, including transportation, lodging, meals, and any other relevant costs. Submission: Complete the travel claim form and submit it to the appropriate military installation or closely associated office. Review and Approval: Once submitted, your claim will be reviewed, and you will be reimbursed for eligible expenses. Service members who find that they might need to store their belongings or live temporarily in alternative accommodations due to circumstances such as job uncertainty or other personal reasons, have several options. Placing belongings in a storage unit and living in an RV can be seen as viable solutions. Alternatively, some choose to purchase an RV and use it as a mobile home, eventually retiring in one of the numerous RV parks located near military bases around the country. For example, an 8 1/2 x 20 enclosed cargo trailer can be utilized as a means to transport all personal belongings. Carefully planning and ensuring that the trailer is towed back home with a van, collecting all the necessary receipts for weights, and subsequently submitting them for reimbursement can be a cost-effective solution.

Exploring Other Options

Returning to your home of record is certainly possible, but it's crucial to explore all available options and resources. Some military bases offer programs and services to help service members transition back into civilian life. Utilizing these resources, such as Army Changed of Station (PCS) or similar programs, can provide an easier transition. Summary: The military provides transportation and travel expenses for service members to return to their home of record. Complications arise when service members face unexpected challenges that go beyond the DoD's standard procedures. Exploring alternative solutions, such as storage units, RVs, or personal trailer usage, can be beneficial in certain situations.

Keywords

discharge transportation military relocation discharge complications