Is the Military Recalling Retirees?
The possibility of the military recalling retired personnel has been a topic of concern for many military veterans and retirees in recent years. With the United States facing a shortage of military personnel, particularly in specialized fields, there are reports of the military re-enlisting retirees or even recalling them from retirement.
What is the reason for the military recalling retirees?
The primary reason for the military recalling retirees is the current shortage of personnel in certain fields, such as pilots, tank commanders, and special operators. The military has reported that it needs to replace an estimated 100,000 personnel in the coming years, and the retiree recall is seen as a way to quickly bring experienced personnel back into the fold.
What type of retirees are being recalled?
According to [1], a study by the Government Accountability Office (GAO), the military is focusing on recalling retirees with critical skills, such as:
- Pilots and aviation technicians
- Tank commanders and mechanics
- Special Operations Forces (SOF) personnel
- Cyber specialists and IT experts
- Doctors, nurses, and medical professionals
These individuals typically have a wealth of knowledge and experience, making them highly valuable to the military.
How is the recall process working?
The recall process is overseen by the individual services, with each branch handling its own retiree recall efforts. Here is an overview of the process:
• Notification: Retired personnel are notified of their eligibility for recall by a letter or email from the military.
• Rank and grade: Recalled retirees are typically restored to their previous rank and grade, with some exceptions for promotions or changes in status.
• Duties: Recalled personnel are assigned to positions in line with their previous occupation and skills.
• Pay and benefits: Recall pays and benefits are negotiated between the retiree and the military, taking into account their previous salary and any changes in military pay.
Examples of recalls in different services:
United States Army: In 2018, the Army recalled 30 retired captains and above to fill gaps in pilot and aviation technician positions [2].
United States Navy: In 2020, the Navy recalled 40 retired officers to fill slots in aviation, nuclear operations, and intelligence positions [3].
United States Air Force: In 2019, the Air Force recalled 50 retired officers and enlisted personnel to fill vacancies in pilot, intelligence, and cybersecurity positions [4].
Do retirees have to go back?
Retirees who are recalled by the military are not required to return to active duty. They can choose to remain in retirement or opt-in to the recall process.
What are the incentives for retirees to return to service?
To incentivize retirees to return to service, the military is offering various benefits, including:
• Recall pay: Retirees receive a significant amount of money to rejoin the military, often equal to or greater than their last salary.
• Tax-free bonuses: Recalled retirees may be eligible for tax-free bonuses or awards for re-enlisting or accepting a recall.
• Increased pension: When retirees return to service and reach the minimum 20-year mark, their pension increases by 10%.
Conclusion
In summary, the military is indeed recalling retirees, particularly in critical fields, to meet personnel shortages. The process involves notification, rank restoration, duty assignment, and negotiations over pay and benefits. While retirees are not required to return to service, they may be incentivized by recall pay, bonuses, and increased pensions.
References:
[1] Government Accountability Office (GAO). (2020). Military Recruitment and Retention: Information on the Recall of Retired Personnel. [2] United States Army News. (2018). Army Recalls 30 Retired Captains, Commanders to Fill Piloting Gaps.