DAF updated holiday schedule; Includes support for fertility treatment, infection aid

A recent update for the Air Force Department Instruction 36-3003, The military leave program includes time off for airmen and guardians who wish to participate in a fertility treatment program at a military medical treatment facility. Authorized up to 35 days of permissible temporary duty, they may split the days into separate PTDYs if deemed appropriate by their medical provider.

“My wife and I have our own struggles with starting a family, so I understand how stressful this can be on our airmen and parents, both personally and financially.Said the Secretary of the Air Force frank kendall, ,I wholeheartedly support this program and I hope our partners will take full advantage of it.”

“This change is important for all those struggling with infertility, just as I have served over the past 10 years,” said US Air Force Master Sergeant. Christy Negron, a WIT member. “Infertility causes enormous damage, not only physically and emotionally, but also financially. Being able to go to PTDY for treatment is something that is associated with the process by allowing us to work on time to focus on our life goals. Will help reduce stress.”

Military members can receive treatment in six different MTFs: Walter Reed National Military Medical Centerbethesda, Maryland; Tripler Army Medical CenterHonolulu, airy; Womack Army Medical CenterFayetteville, North Carolina; Madigan Army Medical CenterTacoma, Washington; San Antonio Military Medical Center, San Antonio, Texas; And Naval Medical Center San DiegoSan Diego, California.

“I’m passionate about it because I believe in taking care of my airmen and guardians,” said the US space force Chief Master Sergeant Martha Birkhead, WIT lead for this initiative. “I’ve seen many members struggle with fertility issues and can attest to its ripple effect in the military.”

Additional changes to the military leave program include: To attend a Department of Defense-sponsored employment seminar outside the local area under the PTDY transition assistance program When the member separates or retires within 365 days; and to participate in non-chargeable leave skillbridge Programwhich provides service members in the last 180 days of their service obligation to receive civilian training for post-service employment.

All changes can be found in DAFI 36-3003 Here,