How can I get a direct answer regarding terminal leave with a chapter 8 (General)?

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 17 Sep 2020 08:00:05 -0400

I’m in the process of being voluntarily chaptered under a chapter 8 as a general discharge. There’s been some confusion amongst my command (these chapters aren’t common anymore, especially where I am). My chapter packet just this week was sent up to be signed by the closest Col in the chain. My due date is November 16, under the chapter it is clearly stated that the SM must be out by 30 days prior to the due date. I requested terminal leave about 4 months ago at the same time I put in for the chapter. My terminal leave “should” start in a week, however it has not been signed (approved/disapproved). I’ll need to clear before terminal leave, but my command isn’t sure whether they can approve it before my chapter is officially signed. I’ve been given the run around by legal also, they said it’s up to my commander. I’ve asked about it insistently, always getting the same answer (that they’re asking legal if they can sign my leave). Should I go to IG to get the regulation on it, or should I call it a loss and sell my leave days? I understand it can be disapproved and my commander has zero obligation to approve it, but I’d rather it get disapproved than this waiting game and run around.

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Sep 17 at 2020 8:33 AM

SSgt Christophe Murphy — Thu, 17 Sep 2020 08:33:18 -0400

If I remember correctly terminal leave can't be approved without your new ETS date being corrected and that won't happen until the chapter package has been processed. Once your chapter 8 is signed off and your ETS has been officially changed to reflect you getting out the other wheels can start turning.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 17 at 2020 9:45 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 17 Sep 2020 09:45:10 -0400

Until your packet is approved with a new ETS date, no Terminal Leave will be approved. You have until October 16th. If it comes down to the witching hour for your packet approved, what days you have for Leave that you can't take will have to be sold back. It sucks, but it's literally a wait game until your packet is done, approved and a new ETS date given.

Response by MAJ Ronnie Reams made Sep 17 at 2020 9:52 AM

MAJ Ronnie Reams — Thu, 17 Sep 2020 09:52:33 -0400

Question is a Chapter 8 what we used to call a Section 8?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 17 at 2020 3:35 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 17 Sep 2020 15:35:25 -0400

You cant request terminal leave for a Chapter 8 because your ETS date will reflect the date of separation once the chapter packet is approved. 30 days prior to November 16 is Oct 16. If your packet hasnt been approved yet, then i would expect it to be done this coming week. You are authorized 10 working days to clear upon receipt of orders.

A chapter 8 does not afford you the same benefits as a normal discharge. You cant just use your leave and collect a paycheck because its a voluntary discharge. You will be allowed to sell the leave back