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Army expands captain incentive program

The retention incentive program that closed Dec. 31 for most captains in year groups 1999-2004 has been expanded for two select categories of officers.

Promotable captains from year group 1999 who were selected below-zone by the 2007 major board, and who previously were ineligible for any of the incentives, are now eligible for the full menu of cash, schooling and assignment options.

The application deadline for the five incentives is March 26. Officers are limited to one of the following options:

• Critical Skills Retention Bonus of $25,000 to $35,000 in return for a three-year service extension.

• Army-funded graduate school. Officers approved for this option incur a service obligation of three days for every day spent in school.

• Ranger School in return for a 12-month service extension, or attendance at the Defense Language Institute. DLI students incur a service obligation of three days for every day in school.

• Branch or functional area of choice. Officers approved for this option incur a three-service obligation.

• Post of choice. Officers approved for this option incur a three-year service obligation.

The Army also has increased, from $25,000 to $35,000, the Critical Skills Retention Bonus for captains in specialty 67J (aeromedical evacuation pilot).

Medical Service Corps aviators only are eligible for the CSRB option. Those who accept the cash incur a three-year service obligation.

Medevac pilots who already have submitted an application, or been approved for a CSRB contract, will receive an additional $10,000. No additional action is required on their part. The additional payment will be automatic.