Blue to Green Is Option for Sailors Facing Separation

From Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs

MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) -- In a climate where Sailors may face separation due to high year tenure or Perform-to-Serve/Fleet Rating Identification Engine, Navy leadership is reminding Sailors in 2011 that Operation Blue to Green could keep them serving.

"Sailors should be aware of all avenues to stay in the military," said Capt. Hank Roux, head enlisted community management.

According to the Army's Operation Blue to Green website, the program allows highly qualified Sailors the opportunity to continue in military service, maintain benefits and gain new training.

Benefits of transitioning to the Army via Blue to Green include:

* E-1 through E-5 retain their grade and date of rank.

* Rates that convert into an Army military occupational specialty (MOS) will only need to attend Basic Combat Training.

* Retraining into another MOS may be possible.

"Of course we want all of our Sailors to stay Navy, whether that is active, full time support or Reserve component, but if a Sailor's facing separation Blue to Green is a great option for them," Roux said.

In fiscal year 2010, only 43 Sailors took advantage of the program.

To qualify, Sailors must be physically fit, meet the Army's height and weight standards, have a minimum of three years time in service and have an approved Request for Conditional Release (DD Form 368).

For more information, speak with your career counselor, review SECNAVINST 1000.7F, MILPERSMAN 1300-081 and the Army's Operation Blue to Green website at http://www.goarmy.com/benefits/additional-incentives/blue-to-green.html.