Chapter 5-8: Involuntary Separation Due to Parenthood
(Lack of an Adequate Family Care Plan)

 

Soldiers must arrange for the care of their family members so as to be available for duty when and where the needs of the Service dictate; be able to perform assigned military duties without interference; and remain eligible for worldwide assignment. Soldiers will be considered for involuntary separation when parental obligations interfere with fulfillment of military responsibilities. IAW para 5-5, AR 600-20, the following soldiers are required to maintain an adequate family care plan:

  1. A pregnant soldier who:

a.       Has no spouse; is divorced, widowed, or separated; or is residing without her spouse

b.      Is married to another service member of an Active or Reserve component of any service (Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, or Coast Guard)

  1. A soldier who has no spouse; is divorced, widowed or separated, or is residing apart from his or her spouse; who has joint or full legal and physical custody of one or more family members under the age of 19 or who has adult family member(s) incapable of self-care regardless of age.
  2. A soldier who is divorced (not remarried) and who has liberal or extended visitation rights by court decree which would allow family members to be solely in the soldier’s care in excess of 30 consecutive days.
  3. A soldier whose spouse is incapable of self-care or is otherwise physically, mentally, or emotionally disabled so as to require special care or assistance.
  4. A soldier categorized as half of a dual-military couple of the AA or RC of any service (Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines or Coast Guard) who has joint or full legal custody of one or more family members under age 19 or who has adult family member(s) incapable of self-care regardless of age.

 

1-16 Counseling Required:

Yes (5-8b)(1-16a(1))

Medical Required:

No (1-32a)

Mental Required:

No (1-32b)

Approval Authority:

Bde Cdr (1-19c(1))

Type of discharge authorized:

Honorable or General, Under Honorable Conditions (5-1a)

 

Note: Command does not have to wait the full amount of time (30 days) before initiating IF soldier provides statement stating inability to provide an adequate family care plan now or in the future.

Documents Required for Chapter:

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