My Palace Chase package was approved 2 days before I deployed. It was supposed to be a 60 day rotation, but my separation date was about 45 days away. I went on the deployment, as not to "screw my buddy", but it was shortened to about 35 days. I came home 2 weeks before my separation to get things in order. I was not able to take the almost month worth of terminal leave like I wanted, so I had to cash it in and get jipped with base salary taxed at 25%. Go Guard!

 

Just wanted to chime in here after reading all the threads. To answer the first question--- you can be deployed until you separate. In fact, you can have your separation date extended to coincide with you coming back from deployment. I have only seen this happen a couple of times. Usually, commanders will work with someone separating; but they don't have to. I always allowed a guy at least 90 days. Ideally, it is for six months, but does not have to be. There was one guy that we brought back with only one month before he separated. But we told him up front that would happen if he took the job---and he took the job; so he was partially responsible--and still unhappy with the AF to this day.

Second, do not trust the "experts" at MPF; do your own research--you are all officers. I can guarantee that you will not get a 100% correct answer to a complex question MOST of the time. IF you rely on them for LIFE DECISIONS, you "get what you pay for". Please do your own research.

Lastly, and this is important--- THE JAG WORKS FOR THE COMMANDER, NOT YOU. The JAG is the government's lawyer. Just look upon them as you adversary NOT your advocate. The ADC (Area Defense Counsel) is YOUR advocate, but ONLY for criminal (ie UCMJ) offenses. If you were to challenge the government for anything they did "wrong" to you or any rule, reg, law, etc. that was violated and you are paying for it, you would have to hire your own attorney that specializes in going after the government.

But to answer the first question-- a. six months ideally; b. recently they shoot for 3months; c. nothing is required (ie needs of the AF) and d. your separation CAN BE extended due to deployment.

 

I believe you recieve a DAV code 30 days prior to separation (not terminal leave). As stated earlier terminal leave is up to the CC.

DAV code is a non-deployable code that shows up in the Air Force deployment manager (LOGMOD)

Only chance now is to convince your commander that you've got a lot to accomplish before you separate. Finding a suitable job requires more time...and the Air Force owes that to you for your service. The Commander can trump all...kiss ass if you have to.

 

I was in a similar situation. I think the most recent reg (I can't remember the number) said that, with SQ/CC approval, they can deploy you as soon as 30 days prior to your separation date.

I would not trust MPF to give you the straight answer, but they may be able to tell you what reg to reference. Not that it matters...the Man can waive anything he wants anyway, ya know??