New Program Gives Sailors Flexibility in Timing Transition to Reserves

Navy News Service

Story Number: NNS121106-09
11/6/2012

From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy announced a new program Nov. 5 to allow greater flexibility for enlisted Sailors transitioning from Active Duty or Full Time Support to the Selected Reserve.

According to NAVADMIN 329/12, the "Active Component (AC) and Full Time Support (FTS) to Selected Reserve Delayed Affiliation Program (DAP)" allows Sailors to delay in-rate affiliation with the Reserve Component (RC) for up to six months after their Soft Expiration of Active Service (SEAOS) through a quota reservation system. The program is targeted towards Sailors who desire a delay in their affiliation into the Selected Reserves (SELRES), or who are unable to obtain a SELRES in-rate perform to serve (PTS) quota at SEAOS.

As part of the Navy's Continuum of Service initiative, the DAP program is designed to streamline Sailors' transition between reserve and active service, while enabling the Navy to manage its force so it is best prepared to meet current and future warfighting needs.

DAP enables this continuum by offering participating Sailors a flexible affiliation option, and helping to solidify Sailors' reserve affiliation decisions by providing them a predictable SELRES start date.

"By allowing Sailors more ability to time their transition into the reserves, this program will allow greater flexibility for Active and FTS Sailors to extend their Navy careers," said Rear Adm. Anthony Kurta, director of military personnel plans and policy. "Not only will this program benefit our people, it also enables our Navy to retain the skills and talents of our highly-trained and experienced Sailors, making us more ready to meet the mission."

Sailors are eligible to apply for DAP up to 90 days prior to their SEAOS through their chain of command. All separating AC and FTS Sailors are eligible to apply for DAP. Sailors will have up to six months from their AC/FTS separation to affiliate with the SELRES.

The number and timing of Sailors selected will be determined based on current and projected manning needs for the given rating. Sailors must also meet the age, service time, and physical qualifications required of all those entering the SELRES.

In return for a quota reservation, Sailors shall satisfactorily participate in a Voluntary Training Unit (VTU) or a Variable Participation Unit (VPU) of the Individual Ready Reserve (IRR). While in the IRR, Sailors may take advantage of continued benefits such as Servicemember's Group Life Insurance, access to base commissaries and exchanges, and use of Morale, Welfare, and Recreation services.