My husband and I are both active duty and we are expecting our 1st child- Should I separate under a Chapter 5-8? | AskTOP.net – Leader Development for Army Professionals

My husband and I are both active duty and we are expecting our 1st child- Should I separate under a Chapter 5-8?

My husband and I are both active duty and expecting our first child. We are considering our options for a Family Care plan and came across Chapter 5-8. Is it plausible for me to be able to get out on a Chapter 5-8 with an Honorable Discharge with us both being Active Duty?

The Evaluator - Army Evaluation & Counseling Guide

It is possible to receive a separation under chapter 5-8.  Here is what AR 635-200 states about a separation under this chapter action.

5-8 Involuntary Separation Due to Parenthood
d. For characterization of service or description of separation, see paragraph 5–1

5–1. Characterization of service or description of separation
a. Unless the reason for separation requires a specific characterization, a Soldier being separated for the convenience of the Government will be awarded a character of service of honorable, under honorable conditions, or an uncharacterized description of service if in entry-level status.
b. No Soldier will be awarded a character of service under honorable conditions under this chapter unless the Soldier is notified of the specific factors in his/her service record that warrant such a characterization, using the notification procedure. Such characterization is normally inappropriate for Soldiers separated under the provisions of paragraphs 5–4, 5–11, 5–12, 5–15, 5–16, or 5–17

I would recommend a Chapter 8.  It allows you to leave the service while you are pregnant. If your husband is still on active duty you should still be entitled to health care as his dependent. This is an honorable discharge. See AR 635-200 for more information.

 

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Mark is a Retired Command Sergeant Major with 26 years of military leadership experience. He held 3 military occupational specialties (Field Artillery, Nuclear Weapons Tech, and Ammunition Ordnance). Mark is one of the leading military authors in the fields of leadership, counseling, and training.

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