The Navy Begins to Reopen Safely

The Navy Begins to Reopen Safely

The Navy is trying to reopen safely while the pandemic continues to keep many people in place. Military families that had plans to move to new bases found themselves coming to a screeching halt during the past couple of months. The stop movement order was placed on the military by the Department of Defense in March. Many families that have been stuck in place since this order are now able to start moving. 

With the Pentagon loosening restriction in July, the Navy is working on reinstating travel again, but only for certain situations. We are using a phased and conditions-based approach to prioritize who can move. Those with operational sea duty commands are first on the list.

Some U.S. military bases can begin reopening if they meet specific requirements, such as having fewer COVID-19 cases for two weeks. At this point, about 40% of U.S. military stations have started opening. In August, the number of military coronavirus cases has slowed down. The Navy has been making fewer port visits and staying out at sea longer to prevent transmission of COVID-19 on our ships. With the precautions we are taking to keep people safe, we can move the families in need.  

Waiver process

Navy bases in San Diego are not open for regular travel yet but can make some travel exceptions. A waiver process can move sailors who face some kind of hardship or are essential to their new command. Currently, the Navy’s backlogged with almost 24,000 families waiting to move to their new bases. Initially, moving these families was expected to take until February of next year. With the waivers, we are planning to move the families to their new bases by this November.

This waiver process and condition-based approach has been a relief to many military personnel and families. Those with last-minute temporary living situations can begin to plan their move. Sailors stuck in place due to delays will no longer have to worry about how it will affect their career trajectory.