How does dwell time work for EUCOM rotations?

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Feb 2023 11:20:07 -0500

Went on a EUCOM rotation in August 2021; got extended for an extra month; returned to the states in May 2022. Recently PCS'ed and now the unit I am assigned to is going on the same rotation.

From my understanding, we were/are suppose to get 1:1 for our dwell time but I am currently being told that we are not "eligible" to use our full dwell as the orders were TDY.

I've read the DTM-21-005 and am currently just seeking more information.

Response by COL Randall C. made Feb 9 at 2023 12:25 PM

COL Randall C. — Thu, 09 Feb 2023 12:25:22 -0500

You're in the right church but sounds like you're not quite in the right pew. You've got all the resources just need a bit of help interpreting them.

The DTM never specifies that 'TDY' doesn't count. Sounds like a 'barracks lawyer' answer. It says 'deployment'. Further, it specifically defines what it says a 'deployment' is in Part II (Definitions).

"A Service member of a Military Service within the DoD is considered deployed or on a deployment on any day on which, pursuant to orders, the Service member performs service for an operation at a location or under circumstances that make it impossible for them to spend off-duty time in the housing in which they reside when on garrison duty at their permanent duty station or homeport."

The exception is if it is not an operational requirement (i.e., going TDY for a conference, fielding equipment, etc.)

For the active component, the goal is to keep deployments at a 1:3 or greater ratio with a threshold of 1:2 (2 days at home for every 1 day deployed). It states that SEDEF approval is required to deploy an AC unit, detachment, or individual with a ratio of less than 1:2.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2023 12:50 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 09 Feb 2023 12:50:59 -0500

Also to expand on this post; I do understand that dwell time can be involuntarily waived.