Military medals and leave accrual

2

Q. How does the expeditionary or campaign medal qualify an employee for the possibility of being in an increased leave category? I was under the impression that campaign and expeditionary medals only qualify for leave categories when an employee is a retiree from the military. Is this correct?

In my scenario, I have seven years of active-duty Navy service and five years of civil service in FERS totaling 12 years. I am in Leave Category 2, which grants of six hours of leave per pay period until I reach 15 years of service. At that time, my leave jumps to Category 3, for which I will earn eight hours per pay period.

Is there a stipulation, directive or law that states if a campaign or expeditionary medal has been earned, it authorizes an employee credit for leave, possibly placing them in a different leave category? I have a Kosovo Campaign Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal. If this scenario is correct, what should I do?

A. Here’s what OPM has to say: For nonretired members, full credit for uniformed service (including active duty and active duty for training) performed under honorable conditions is given for leave accrual purpose.

Share.

About Author

Reg Jones was head of retirement and insurance policy at the Office of Personnel Management. Email your retirement-related questions to fedexperts@federaltimes.com.

2 Comments

  1. I was station at AFSOUTH in Italy for Bosnia and Kosovo. I deployed to Croatia and was indirect support for my entire five (5) years at AFSOUTH. can I get credit for leave accrual for my entire tour at AFSOUTH?

Leave A Reply