WASHINGTON DC (CLARKSVILLENOW) – The Department of Defense has issued several travel restrictions, both domestic and international, to military families.
As of March 16, “all DoD service members and civilians, and their family members will stop all official travel.” This restriction includes Permanent Change of Station (PCS) and Temporary Duty. Travel for medical leave is still allowed. The restriction will run through May 11.
Families who may have been in the process of joining their soldier for an overseas PCS will be required to wait for the next 60 days.
“The department is committed to doing our part in the administration’s comprehensive fight against the coronavirus by enhancing the safety of our personnel, helping them stay healthy, and making sure they’re able to continue executing the mission,” said Defense Secretary Dr. Mark T. Esper.
Exceptions for travel may be given for “compelling cases”. This would include travel deemed mission essential, humanitarian, or warranted due to extreme hardship.
The department is enhancing several safety measures for military and DoD contracted aircraft that may be returning from CDC Level 3 or Level 2 designated areas. They will set up pre- and post-travel screenings and have additional procedures in place for those returning.
Those who have already requested or been approved for leave during this time period are only allowed to travel within the local area.
For more information on the DoD Travel Restrictions, read the memo.