Sample Cases
Category: Posting
A Family Stays Together
Early in 2001, a CF member was advised that he was being transferred. He immediately contacted his commanding officer explaining that his wife had serious health problems and would not be able to accompany him. Furthermore, he explained, he could not be away from his wife for long periods of time: there were no other family members living in the region who could care for her in his absence. Because of these circumstances, he requested special status. He presented his wife’s medical documents as well as documentation from his commanding officer recommending that he be given special status. The Initial Authority (IA) refused his request for special status, although after discussion with his commander, the transfer date was extended. At this point, the member contacted the Ombudsman’s Office for help.
The investigator contacted the IA, who explained the reasons for his denying special status. In the first instance, the complainant had served at the same base since 1984 and the IA determined it was time for him to be transferred. In addition, there was no longer a suitable residence at the base for him. Finally, the complainant had volunteered to be deployed with the United Nations forces, but could not do so for a period of two years if he was on special status, nor was his wife’s condition likely to change in that period of time. The case was forwarded to the Director Military Careers for a final decision.
After a series of discussions with the padre and the social worker, the investigator contacted the Director Military Careers to find out why special status had been denied the complainant. After further discussion, the Director revisited his decision and the special status was granted.
The decision was a source of great relief to the complainant, his wife and children. He thanked this Office for managing his problems speedily.
