Understanding and Obtaining Leave for Your Loved One in the U.S. Army: A Guide for Fiances

Overview of the Leave Process for Fiances in the U.S. Army

As the fiancé or partner of a service member in the U.S. Army, you may find yourself in a situation where you want to visit your loved one for a leave. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to go about this process legally and ethically.

1. Contact the Soldier Directly

While you might be eager to help, the U.S. Army policies strictly require that any leave request be initiated by the service member. Therefore, your first step should be to assist your fiancé in contacting their unit's administrative office or personnel officer. This officer will be able to provide you with the correct forms and ensure that all processes are followed correctly.

2. Obtaining and Filling Out the DA Form 31

The U.S. Army uses the DA (Department of the Army) Form 31, also known as the Request and Authority for Leave, to process leave requests. This form is essential for any leave application process and can be obtained through various means:

Online Download: The DA Form 31 can be downloaded from the Army Publishing Directorate's website or the Army's official forms library, which can be found at Army Publishing Directorate.

After obtaining the form, it's crucial to fill it out accurately with the necessary details, including the type of leave requested, dates, and any other relevant information.

3. Submitting the Leave Request

Once the form is completed, it must be submitted through the appropriate chain of command for approval. Your fiancé's unit will have specific procedures for submitting leave requests, which should be followed diligently to ensure a smooth process. It's a good idea for your fiancé to maintain ongoing communication with their supervisor or administrative office to check the progress and ensure timely approval.

4. Following Up and Ensuring Timely Processing

To increase the chances of a prompt and successful approval, your fiancé should periodically follow up with their supervisor or administrative office. This proactive approach can help avoid any delays and smooth the overall leave application process.

5. Beware of Scammers

On the flip side, it's essential to be aware of potential scams or misinformation. If you're asked to obtain a leave form to facilitate a visit, be cautious. You cannot assist in this process, and such actions may be indicative of a scam. The U.S. Army requires that leave requests be initiated and processed entirely by the soldier themselves.

Be wary of any requests that suggest you can circumvent official procedures. If your concern is genuine, communicate directly with your fiancé's unit to obtain the correct support and advice.

If you have specific questions or need more detailed guidance, feel free to reach out to the relevant officers or visit the Army's official resources for information.

Understanding and respecting the official leave request process will help ensure that you and your fiancé can connect in a way that is both legal and respectful of military regulations.