US military bans all domestic travel

The US Department of Defence has issued a total domestic travel ban for all military personnel, their families and civilian employees.

CAPTION: A US Marine Corps gate sentry demonstrates how sentries at entry control points will limit physical contact in the fight against COVID-19. US Marine Corps photo by Lance Corporal Taylor Smith.

The order was issued by the Pentagon yesterday.

Deputy Secretary of Defense David L. Norquist approved the new travel restrictions “for service members, DoD civilians, and their families assigned to DoD installations, facilities and surrounding areas within the United States and its territories”.

“This restriction will halt all domestic travel, including Permanent Change of Station, and Temporary Duty,” the official statement said.

“This restriction will also pause civilian hiring at DoD installations and components for persons who do not reside within the hiring entity’s local commuting area.

“Additionally, service members will be authorized local leave only, following Service guidelines.

“This new guidance is effective March 16 and continues through May 11.

“Similar to other travel guidance regarding COVID-19, travel exceptions may be granted for compelling cases where the travel is mission-essential, for humanitarian reasons, or warranted due to extreme hardship.

“Approval authority for these exceptions belongs to the Combatant Commander, the Service Secretaries, the Chief Management Officer, or the Director of the Joint Staff, but may be delegated.

“The Department will continue to issue additional guidance with regard to the COVID-19 as conditions warrant.

“Our goal is to remain ahead of the virus spread so our military force remains effective and ready.”

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