How Long Does It Take for an Average US Marine to Return Home?
The average deployment for a U.S. Marine typically lasts around 6 to 7 months. However, this can vary based on the specific mission unit and operational requirements. After completing a deployment, Marines usually have some time at home before their next deployment. This article delves into the specifics of leave and return home periods for U.S. Marines.
After Deployment: The Return Home Process
Marines return home following their deployment, which can include several leave periods. The details of these leaves and the duration before returning to active duty are influenced by various factors, such as the location of the Marine, mission requirements, and the specific Marine Corps unit.
Boot Leave and School
Upon graduation from Marine Corps boot camp, Marines typically enjoy a short period called boot leave, often lasting 10 days unless they decide to help their recruiter with duties. After boot leave, Marines move on to MOS ( Military Occupational Specialty) school. Even here, Marines may get a week off during holidays, such as Christmas when I was at MOS school, we got a week off.
Once assigned to a fleet unit, Marines receive leave on a regular basis, usually about 2.5 days per month. This leave can be taken based on the unit's training schedule, making it fairly flexible as long as the Marine isn't in the midst of critical duties.
Pre and Post Deployment Leave
Mutual understanding and cooperation between deployed Marines and their commanding officers often result in pre and post deployment leave periods. These periods are critical for Marines to recuperate and reconnect with their families and friends. Additionally, some units may allow a block of leave after a deployment, which might not be counted against the saved leave.
Other Leave Opportunities
During Christmas, our unit had a long weekend, and sometimes even two, with overlapping short holidays. There was a battalion commander who was a big football fan, making Super Bowl Sunday a four-day weekend. Another company commander allowed three-day weekends if the entire company remained unblemished for the month.
According to my recollection, units normally approve new Marines for leave about six months after their deployment, though this timeframe can vary depending on the mission and the needs of the unit.
Despite not going on as many leaves as I would have liked, there were still plenty of days off. Of course, there were weeks where we worked seven days a week, but for the most part, there were plenty of reasons to take time off, even if it was only a long weekend.
Federal Holidays and Liberty Periods
The Marine Corps grants federal holidays as liberty days, allowing Marines to have a 72 to 96-hour period off. Liberty periods are generally restricted to a 50-mile radius for overnight liberty, but Marines stationed in a duty station within 500 miles of home can usually travel and enjoy a 96-hour liberty. If the Marine's home is within this range, they can enjoy frequent visits back home.
Military Leave Days and Overseas Deployment
Every active duty Marine is entitled to 2.5 leave days per month, totaling 30 days a year. This can accumulate, and if a Marine is stationed overseas, they might come home for an extended leave period once a year, depending on their unit's mission. My experience, since I got married, home is no longer in my childhood hometown; it's in Hawaii, which has been a significant change over the years.
Conclusion: The return home process for an average US Marine is complex, involving various factors and opportunities to return to personal life. This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the leave policies and deployment durations for U.S. Marines.