Originally Posted by
Albief15
I did this as well from 2002-2007. I usually only used mil leave when a drop was not honored after several attempts. In hindsight, I may have given up some B fund money, but like you I didn't want the hassle and I didn't want it to mess up other benefits. I think the newer VIPS options make it a little easier than it used to be.
I cannot say enough nice things about SM, the ALPA Mil Affairs guy. He seems to have a very good bead on the ins and outs of the fine print on USERRA, and for those of you doing either short term or long term leave options I urge you to check in with him for any latest/greatest info. Mil leave should be a win/win in this environment. Hopefully everyone will benefit from the latest initiatives...
Always use MLA to cover military duty. If you drop a trip without this, you lose USERRA protections plus the benefit of having your B Fund contributions made for trips dropped while performing military service. Under USERRA you have an obligation to notify your employer of military service. That's your end of the deal. They have many, many things to provide you, but it starts with your notification.