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Military TDY: What it is, How it Works, and What to Expect

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What is military tdy, how does military tdy work, what to expect during military tdy.

Military TDY is a common term used in the United States military to refer to temporary duty assignments that require service members to leave their home station and travel to a different location for a short period of time. In this article, we'll take a closer look at what military TDY is, how it works, and what service members can expect when they are assigned to TDY.

Military TDY, or Temporary Duty, is a type of assignment that requires service members to travel away from their home station for a period of time ranging from a few days to several months. TDY can be for a variety of reasons, including training, special assignments, temporary duty with other units or organizations, or for mission-related travel.

Military TDY can be initiated by a service member's unit, a higher headquarters, or by a specific mission requirement. Once a service member is selected for TDY, they are typically provided with orders that outline the purpose of the TDY, the location they will be traveling to, the duration of the assignment, and any other special instructions or requirements.

When traveling for TDY, service members are typically provided with transportation to and from their TDY location, as well as lodging, per diem for meals, and any other necessary support. While on TDY, service members are expected to perform the duties assigned to them and follow all applicable military regulations and policies.

When assigned to TDY, service members can expect to be away from their home station for the duration of the assignment. Depending on the location of the TDY, service members may be required to travel by commercial airline, military aircraft, or ground transportation. Upon arrival at their TDY location, service members will typically check in with their sponsor or point of contact and receive a briefing on the local area and any specific requirements or restrictions.

Service members will be responsible for performing the duties assigned to them during the TDY, which may include training, operational missions, or support functions. While on TDY, service members are expected to maintain a professional appearance and conduct themselves in accordance with military regulations and policies.

Military TDY is a common type of assignment in the United States military that requires service members to travel away from their home station for a temporary period of time. TDY can be for a variety of reasons, including training, special assignments, and mission-related travel. Service members selected for TDY can expect to receive orders outlining the purpose, location, and duration of the assignment, as well as any special instructions or requirements. While on TDY, service members are expected to perform the duties assigned to them and follow all applicable military regulations and policies.

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• General Military Questions

Military TDY: Temporary Duty Assignment Explained

The U.S. Armed Forces issue different types of military travel orders to personnel.

Your military travel orders pertain to changes in your duty location and the duration, and may also impact your military pay.

Military TDY (Temporary Duty) is one common type of military travel order .

Get all your questions answered about Temporary Duty (TDY) status and what you can expect to experience with this type of order.

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Table of Contents

What is TDY?

The U.S. Military has three primary types of military travel orders:

• Permanent Change of Station (PCS)
• Temporary Duty (TDY)
• Deployments Orders

It is important to keep in mind that the three types of military assignment orders are not the same and each has its own characteristics.

Your military orders may affect how long you serve at the post, the specific location, and special duty pay.

Temporary Duty (TDY) is defined by the Department of Defense as:

Duty at one or more locations, away from the permanent duty station (PDS), under an order, providing for further assignment or pending further assignment, to return to the old PDS or to proceed to a new PDS.

Military branches under the U.S. Armed Forces have different references for Military TDY, like TAD (temporary additional duty) or TCS (temporary change of station).

However, they all mean basically the same thing that your military orders are temporary.

The primary difference between Military TDY and other orders is that it grants authorization for a service member to perform work away from the permanent duty station.

The Department of Defense requires the label Military TDY (or one of its variants) to approve travel pay, per diem, and coverage of other expenses to assist the soldier.

Since the assignment is temporary, the service member can expect a shorter stay than a permanent station assignment, however, the length of the orders may vary.

The individual details of TDY orders are fleshed out with each commitment.

The specifics of your Military TDY outline expected duration, amount of travel pay, coverage of expenses, housing and food support, transportation, and other forms of assistance.

How long is a TDY?

Military TDY is temporary for military orders, so the length is generally not longer than 180 days.

Temporary duty orders may range anywhere from a few days to a half year.

Long-term TDY is any orders which specify longer than 30 days.

TDY per diem rates depend on the location you have orders for. It will also include reimbursement for lodging, meals, and incidentals. 

Use this calculator to determine how much you can expect to receive. 

Military TDY is a stark contrast from Permanent Duty Assignments and Deployments, which have commitments of several months or years.

The Department of Defense authorizes TDY through Joint Travel Regulations.

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Is TDY considered a deployment?

Technically there is a difference between a temporary duty assignment (TDY) and Deployment, even though they are both military orders.

Deployments are similar to military TDY, except that the service member is assigned to a specific operation.

Therefore, deployments usually reference combat operations that take place overseas.

When most civilians think of military orders, they commonly associate everything with being deployed, though that’s not always the case based on the actual military definition.

Deployment refers to assigning military personnel from a home station to somewhere outside the continental United States.

Mobilizations are also classified as deployments under the Department of Defense guidelines.

How does a TDY differ from a deployment?

The biggest difference between deployments and temporary duty assignments is the length of the orders.

Military TDY is short-term, with even longer stints requiring less than a half year of commitment.

On the other hand, deployments are typically longer and involve assignments outside the United States.

Additionally, deployments involve assignments to specific operations and usually in combat situations.

However, both types of military orders have similarities.

For example, military personnel must leave their home station for a different location under each type of order.

Military TDY is not always as serious as deployments.

For instance, a temporary duty assignment could mean nothing more than attending school, conferences, or a military-sponsored event.

Or it could pertain to a regular part of military duty where frequent travel is mandatory and the service member hopes to receive some form of compensation for their travel exs.

There are cases where military personnel earn TDY status even when working in the same geographic area as the home base to justify lodging and meal expenses associated with the duty.

Soldiers also rely on military TDY for house hunting and other searches when considering a new permanent change of station or out-processing from military service.

Can I go with my husband/wife on a TDY?

One of the many perks of temporary duty assignments is that you can occasionally bring along the family.

The same is not true of deployments where it would put your spouse or other family members in danger.

If given the chance to bring along a spouse for your temporary duty assignment, you should welcome the opportunity, but keep in mind that pier diem rates are only calculated for the service member.

Military personnel often spend months away from family and friends, so having a unique opportunity like this to spend with a loved one is rare and special.

MilitaryShoppers.com put together a great resource on the topic.

It explains the pros and cons of tagging along with a significant other while he or she is on TDY.

The most important thing to keep in mind is that while you can live with your spouse while on temporary duty assignment, his or her time is still limited and it might drain your budget quickly.

Other than that, it’s an enticing opportunity to catch up after potentially months of separation.

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Will I get paid extra during a TDY?

Despite having to leave your home station, there is nothing more rewarding than a little extra pay in freedom.

It is exactly what temporary duty assignments provide to service members.

In fact, the reason that military personnel may request or seek TDY is the opportunity to put more in their wallet.

Military TDY usually grants per diem pay, which helps cover lodging, meals, and incidental expenses.

You get a set per diem pay regardless of what you actually spend each day on daily expenses.

As a result, if you budget accordingly, you can earn extra cash by pocketing whatever per diem you don’t spend on daily living expenses.

What kind of accommodations can I expect during a TDY?

The accommodations of temporary duty assignments are nothing to brag about yet offer incentives that most military personnel don’t get to enjoy.

For example, the potential opportunity to take your significant other along with you when TDY is a major advantage for some.

Military personnel may get the opportunity to stay at furnished apartments or long-term stay hotels.

Long-term stays help save you money on your per diem since you can cook your own meals as opposed to dining out all of the time.

Furnished apartments may also include laundry and other housing services to save even more money.

Service members on TDY may also request a cash advance of 60-80% of the total value.

It helps cover move-in costs as opposed to spending out of their own pocket.

Some military organizations deem anything over 30 consecutive calendar days. 

For this reason, it allows partial reimbursement of living expenses prior to concluding the assignment.

Military TDY, or temporary duty assignments, refer to relatively short-term military travel orders away from a home station.

Temporary duty assignments range from a couple of days to under six months.

Military TDY is a good thing for soldiers despite the travel arrangements, as it helps cover lodging, food, and transportation regarding the orders.

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First Duty and Future Assignments in the Military

There are circumstances where military members can request assignment

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Future Assignments

Follow-on assignment, hardship assignments, joint spouse assignments, permissive reassignments, base of preference, travel entitlements, privately owned vehicle shipment.

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First duty station selection is made (in either basic training or technical school/AIT/A-School), based ​upon your preferences, and the needs of the service. While the services will consider your preferences, the overriding deciding factor is where the military needs you the most.

Some Navy jobs  allow your assignment to be based on your class-standing in "A-School." And of course, it goes without saying that assignments are based on valid vacancies. If you have the job of tank-fixer, you're only going to be assigned to bases that have tanks to fix.

After the first duty assignment, subsequent assignments are done a little differently. In most cases, you'll have a little more say in future assignments, than you have for the first duty assignment . There are a few restrictions, however.

First-term (those in their first enlistment ) enlisted members assigned to a continental (CONUS) U.S. location must have 12 months time-on-station before being eligible to move to an overseas location and must have 24 months time-on-station before being allowed to move to another continental U.S. location.

Career (those who have re-enlisted at least once) enlisted members assigned to the continental U.S. must have 24 months time-on-station to move to an overseas location and must have 36 months time-on-station in order to move to another continental U.S. location.

The length of time one spends on an overseas tour depends on the location. For example, most of Europe and Japan are considered standard overseas tours. The length of the assignment is 24 months for single people, or those with dependents who elect not to bring their dependents, and 36 months for those who bring their dependents.

Another type of overseas assignment, like most assignments to Korea, is considered remote. On a remote tour one cannot bring their family at government expense, and the tour-length is 12 months. On the other hand, those returning from a remote tour usually get assignment preference over those returning from a standard tour.

For standard overseas tours, one can generally increase his or her chances of being selected by volunteering for the extended tour length. This is the standard tour, plus 12 months.

Of course, one can be involuntarily assigned overseas as well. In general, this is done based on the military member's last overseas return date. 

A follow-on assignment is an assignment after a remote tour. Those with orders for a remote tour can apply for their next assignment before they even depart to the remote tour.

When is assigned to a 12-month remote tour, military members can move their dependents anywhere they want to live in the United States, at government expense, while the member is away. The government must then pay again to relocate the dependents from where they are living to the new assignment when the member returns from the remote tour. Single people, even though they don't have dependents can use the follow-on program, as well.

It's important not to confuse assignments with deployments , which are of course based on many factors such as geopolitical situations and the need for U.S. military troops around the world. 

Each of the services also has procedures for hardship assignments. This allows a military member to apply for reassignment to a specific area/base, due to a valid family hardship. The military's definition of hardship is when there are extreme family problems such as illness, death, or extremely unusual circumstances that are temporary in nature and the specific circumstances necessitate the military member's presence.

If the problem is not one that can be resolved within one year, a  hardship discharge  will be considered, rather than a hardship assignment.

When one military member is married to another military member, both must apply to be assigned together. This is called a joint spouse assignment. The military will try to assign spouses together, but there are no guarantees. The success rate for joint spouse assignments is about 85 percent.

Joint spouse assignments are obviously much easier to accommodate if both spouses are in the same branch of the military. 

A permissive reassignment is one that doesn't cost the government any money. Most permissive reassignments are in the form of swaps, which is when one military member finds another with the same rank and job, currently assigned (or with orders) to a base they want to go to.

Both members who agree to swap must pay for their own move. This includes shipment of personal property. Usually, military personnel offices maintain lists of military people worldwide who are looking to swap. In order to be eligible for a swap, one must have the required time-on-station mentioned above. In other words, a first-termer must have 24 months time-on-station to swap with someone at another continental U.S. location.

Before a military member re-enlists, he can apply to move to a base of his choice. The military, of course, wants this person to re-enlist, so they try to accommodate such base of preference requests. If approved, the member must then re-enlist to accept the assignment. 

When you graduate technical school, the military will pay the authorized costs for you to go to your next duty assignment or, to the port of your military flight for overseas assignments. 

The military does not pay you for travel on leave. They pay you for direct travel from your old duty assignment to your next duty assignment. If you travel home on leave, any additional cost is out of your pocket.

If you own a vehicle and get an overseas assignment, the military will either ship the vehicle for you or store it while you are away. 

Some locations don't allow the shipping of a personal vehicle and others restrict this privilege to certain ranks. In these cases, the military will store the vehicle for you for free while you are assigned overseas.

The military will pay to move your personal property from your home location to your first permanent duty station, or, you can rent a truck, move it yourself. In such cases, the military will reimburse you a portion of what it would have paid a contractor to move the vehicle.

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The Military Wallet

Temporary Duty Assignments – Understanding Your Pay & Benefits While on TDY Orders

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TDY is the three-letter acronym that often leaves servicemembers and families confused. Get to know the various types of Temporary Duty Assignment (TDY) or Temporary Assignment Duty (TAD) to keep your finances and sanity from teetering into the red when you are on TDY orders.

Fully  understanding your military assignments and benefits is the benchmark of a seasoned servicemember. Pay increases or decreases, what per diem covers, and whether or not family members could or should accompany are all factors to fully grasp before going TDY.

Three Types of Military Orders

There are three primary types of military orders:

• Permanent Change of Station (PCS)
• Temporary Duty Assignment (TDY)

Of the three, TDY orders are likely the most complex, as they can be issued as an add-on to additional orders like a PCS. In addition to complexity, TDY orders also offer the most flexibility for servicemembers and their dependents to determine how they will handle assignments, placing them in a location anywhere from just a few days to six months.

There are likely dozens of situations where TDY may be issued. Some examples include additional schooling, career specialties that require frequent travel, or completing special assignments for the military. In nature, the assignments are meant to be short in duration and non-permanent.

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Financial Considerations of TDY Orders

The financial characteristics of TDY are perhaps the most important piece to understand. Consider TDY orders to be similar to travel for professional civilian jobs (like conferences). The organization, in this case, the military, will authorize a certain dollar amount per day called “per diem” for everyday expenses such as food, lodging, and transportation. Essentially, additional TDY pay on top of your regular pay is an additional fixed budget given to you per day. It is the servicemember’s responsibility to budget adequately.

You may be eligible for per diem even if you are temporarily assigned in the same state as your current duty station depending on the situation.

While on assignment, it is critical to keep the following receipts so you can have them validated for reimbursement upon return.

• Meal receipts
• Taxi/Uber/shuttle expenses
• Any travel costs like flights, subway, etc.
• Daily mileage totals (if you are traveling in your own vehicle)
• Incidental expenses or any unexpected costs directly related to daily operations

According to the Department of Defense , “A Service member ordered to a U.S. installation must use adequate and available Government quarters.” This means that if lodging is available, you will likely be required to stay in military housing, such as the barracks, or in installation hotels or accommodations. While exceptions to policy (ETP) do happen, it is largely dependent on a host of factors.

Exceptions to Policy (ETP)

Let’s say, for example, that following his commission , a soldier receives TDY orders to Basic Officer Leaders Course (BOLC) which requires a six-month stay. The soldier has a family and would prefer they accompany him to the training and he requests to stay in off-installation accommodations for the duration of the training course.

While it is not guaranteed, this is a strong case for ETP to be considered. Off installation accommodations would offer greater flexibility to find budget-friendly options within per diem that also include benefits such as on-site laundry and kitchenettes.

When overages or excessive fees are incurred or circumstances constitute an exception to policy, the Authorizing Official (AO) will need to pre-approve the charges before they will be reimbursed. You may not be reimbursed if you are not given pre-authorization, so it is essential to communicate prior to making decisions that will incur costs.

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Per Diem – What is Covered on TDY Orders?

Knowing what is not covered in per diem is just as important as knowing what is.

The military will not cover alcohol purchases in stores or in restaurant establishments. If a servicemember chooses to consume alcohol with their meal, a separate receipt would likely be the best choice, additionally, any charges will be the full responsibility of the individual. Additionally, when deciding to consume alcohol, a full understanding of what hours are considered on and off duty is the responsibility of the servicemember.

Family Separation Allowance (FSA) is an additional benefit offered to servicemembers when they are on assignment away from their family greater than 30 days. It is important to note that if a servicemember’s family accompanies the active duty member for the entire duration of the TDY, FSA would not be considered. However, FSA benefits do apply when dependents visit the servicemember for less than 30 consecutive days.

The eligibility for FSA may be extended to National Guard and wounded warriors, depending on the type, length, and restrictions of the TDY assignment.

Meal rates are based upon location, just like in the civilian world. Speaking with the Authorizing Official (AO) before going TDY to get a precise dollar amount for per diem is highly recommended. A portion, but not always the full amount of gratuity is also included in travel-related expenses.

An often-forgotten component of TDY rates includes factoring in “included” meals provided by the conference or government in your stay. If two out of three meals will be provided, rates may be reduced per day as well as any additional meals. Religious or dietary requirements are an exception to the policy if the traveler meets all requirements. All servicemembers should speak with their local Authorizing Official, command, and financial office to ensure they are fully up to speed.

Going TDY can provide an interesting change of pace and has the potential to put some extra cash in your pocket depending on your budget and personal preferences. If you are someone who likes to cook for yourself in a kitchenette you can save some money. But if you are expected to attend formal functions, eating out often, TDY can get expensive. With a little planning, your TDY experience can be a good one.

About Post Author

Samantha Peterson

Samantha Peterson is a regular contributor for military publications such as The Military Wallet, Military Families Magazine, We Are The Mighty and more. She feels passionately about telling compelling stories and crafting captivating narratives. Living life one PCS at a time, she’s travel schooling her children while tackling careers in the nonprofit and environmental sector all as military life allows.

Featured In: Samantha’s writing has been featured in We Are The Mighty, Military Families Magazine, InDependent, Reserve + National Guard Magazine, and other publications.

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SPECIAL DUTIES. EXTRAORDINARY ROLES.

Marines often serve in a variety of special capacities, whether protecting our Nation’s embassies abroad, recruiting the next generation of United States Marines, or even serving the United States Special Operations Command as a MARSOC Raider. These duties are earned by Marines who have proven their exceptional ability to fight and win in the primary Military Occupational Specialties (MOSs) .

Every Marine takes on a Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) for which he or she is optimally trained, but beyond these roles are the opportunities to take on special duty assignments. Many of these advanced opportunities are called “B” Billets, a designation separate from a Marine’s primary MOS. Explore these critical but atypical roles in the Corps.

Recruiting duty is a vital assignment in the Marine Corps, as it puts Marines in the position of ensuring the standards of our Corps remain high. Those Marines selected for recruiting duty carry the essential duty of screening, selecting, and preparing the next generation of Marines for the physical and mental rigors of recruit training.

Those Marines selected to serve on Drill Instructor Duty carry the essential responsibility of directly shaping the future of the Marine Corps, providing guidance, discipline, and direction for future Marines.

“These recruits are entrusted to my care. I will train them to the best of my ability. I will develop them into smartly disciplined, physically fit, basically trained Marines, thoroughly indoctrinated in love of Corps and country. I will demand of them, and demonstrate by my own example, the highest standards of personal conduct, morality and professional skill."

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The Marine Corps is the only military service that is entrusted with the responsibility of providing security for U.S. Embassies and Consulates around the world. Marines selected for these special duty assignments will have the opportunity to serve at embassies and consulates located in various countries around the globe.

Security Force duty is among the most challenging the Corps offers, and Marines who take on this opportunity must be highly-trained in advanced security procedures. Our Nation places special trusts in these Marines, as they are assigned the responsibility of maintaining a worldwide presence, guarding and protecting key naval assets and special strategic weapons.

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Ready to stand on the frontline of any battle, the Marine Raiders of MARSOC are built up in their Corps ethos, warfighting philosophy and values and represent the Marine Corps contribution to the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM). Two of the prominent roles within the Marine Raider community include Critical Skills Operators, who support the full spectrum of special operations on a global scale, and Special Operations Capability Specialists, who provide combat support expertise in intelligence, fire support, communications, EOD, and canine operations.

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• NCOIC Duty Description
• Observer Controller Trainer (OC/T)
• Operations NCO
• Orderly Room NCO
• Physical Security Officer (PSO)
• Plans Officer
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• Recruiter Duty Descriptions
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• Senior Leader Course (SLC)
• Senior Mechanic
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• Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC)
• Small Group Leader
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• Sponsorship Program NCO
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• Unit RESET Planner
• Unit Supply Sergeant
• Victim Advocate
• Voting Assistance Officer (VAO)
• Warehouse Manager
• Misc Duty Descriptions

DA PAM 623-3, Evaluation Reporting System

3-6. Part III, Duty Description

This information is written by the rater and verified with the rated NCO. Refer to DA PAM 623-3, Evaluation Reporting System, table 3-3 for duty description evaluation instructions. The duty description:

Is an outline of the normal requirements of the specific duty position. Should show type of work required rather than frequently changing tasks. Is essential to performance counseling and evaluation. It is used during the first counseling session to tell the rated NCO what the duties are and what needs to be emphasized. May be updated during the rating period. Is used at the end of the rating period to record what was important about the duties.

NCOER Part : IIIc: Daily Duties and Scope

These must include a series of phrases, starting with verbs/action words and separated by semicolons and ending in a period. This block should address the most important routine duties and responsibilities. Ideally, this should include the number of people supervised, equipment, facilities, and dollars involved and any other routine duties and responsibilities.

Readiness NCO or training NCO. For ARNGUS AGR Soldiers assigned as readiness NCO or training NCO, enter both the NCO's TOE or TDA assignment and the full-time support titles such as Chief or Firing Battery/Readiness NCO. Include a mix of both the position duties and the full-time support duties in Part IIIc, d, and e.

NCOER Part : IIId: Areas of Special Emphasis

Enter areas of special emphasis/appointed duties. These must include a list of tasks/duties separated by semicolons and ending with a period. This block is the most likely to change during the rating period. It should include the most important items that applied at any time during the rating period. ARNGUS AGR Soldiers assigned as readiness NCO or training NCO, enter both the NCO's TOE or TDA assignment and the full-time support titles such as Chief or Firing Battery/Readiness NCO. Include a mix of both the position duties and the full-time support duties in Part IIIc, d, and e.

NCOER Part : IIIe: Appointed Duties

Include duties appointed that are not normally included in the duty description. For ARNGUS AGR Soldiers assigned as Readiness NCO or Training NCO, enter both the NCO's TOE or TDA assignment and the full-time support titles such as Chief or Firing Battery/Readiness NCO. Include a mix of both the position duties and the full-time support duties in Part III, d, and e.

NCOER Part : IIIf: Counseling Dates

Enter the actual dates of the counseling obtained from the DA Form 2166-8-1 (YYYYMMDD). When counseling dates are omitted, the senior rater will enter a statement in part Ve, explaining why counseling was not accomplished. The absence of counseling will not be used as the sole basis for an appeal. However, the lack of counseling may be used to help support other claims made in an appeal.

To contribute examples, use this form.

Duty Title:

Duty Description:

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• Joint Duty Program FAQs

Joint Duty Program Frequently Asked Questions

The DHS Joint Duty Program is an intra- and inter-departmental program which offers civilian personnel professional and developmental opportunities. Joint Duty Assignments enhance operations and mission execution through unity of effort and collaboration.

What is the DHS Joint Duty Program?

The DHS Joint Duty Program offers non-reimbursable Joint Duty Assignments up to one year, both inside and outside the National Capital Region. These multi-component, multi-faceted assignments cross DHS and federal agency operations to build employee skillsets, increasing value to their agency and the federal government as a whole. The DHS Joint Duty Program connects federal employees across the government to professional development opportunities at DHS.

How do supervisors and hiring managers apply to post a joint duty assignment opportunity?

Supervisors may apply to post a joint duty assignment opportunity by completing the DHS Assignment Opportunity Form 250-01 and providing the following:

• Assignment Type: virtual or traditional (onsite). In a virtual Joint Duty Assignment, the employee works from the employing office (physically) or teleworks from home full-time, a standard 40-hour work week.
• Assignment description and required job qualifications.
• Digital signatures from a first-line and second-line supervisor. Note: Supervisor’s approval is required to submit an opportunity.

Send completed forms to [email protected] .

How do interested federal employees apply for a joint duty assignment?

View current DHS Joint Duty Opportunities on USAJOBS and follow the instructions below to apply:

• DHS Application Form 250-02
• Submit a complete application package for each assignment you apply to in USAJOBS.

What is a virtual joint duty assignment?

On a virtual joint duty assignment, an employee may either telework from their employing office or from home full-time. Hiring managers have the option to advertise virtual joint duty assignments for the duration of a detail or until local offices reopen for employees.

Can a supervisor apply to post a opportunity to backfill the position of an employee on a joint duty assignment?

Yes, an employing organization supervisor can apply to post a joint opportunity to backfill the position of an employee on a Joint Duty Assignment. Complete the DHS Assignment Opportunity Form 250-01 .

Why should federal employees participate in the DHS Joint Duty Program?

The DHS Joint Duty Program offers distinct career benefits for Federal employees, including rewarding experiences, leadership development, and networking. The program offers participants with opportunities:

• to enhance mission execution;
• to expand professional networks through agency collaboration thus supporting unity of effort and enhancing collaboration between agencies; and
• to amplify leadership and professional development.

What do federal employees receive upon completion of a joint duty assignment?

Upon satisfactory completion of a Joint Duty Assignment, the employee will receive an official Certificate of Achievement from the Director of the DHS Joint Duty Program.

What are the eligibility requirements to apply for a joint duty assignment?

To apply for a Joint Duty Assignment, interested applicants must:

• be a GS-12, 13, 14, 15 or equivalent;
• have supervisory approval;
• be a permanent, full-time federal employee;
• have an “achieved expectations” or “proficient” rating on their most recent performance evaluation; and
• have no outstanding disciplinary action or grievance.

The DHS Joint Duty Program does not apply to members of the military service or contractors.

How do federal employees find available opportunities?

Interested federal employees can view current DHS Joint Duty Assignment Opportunities on USAJOBS or visit the Open Opportunities website (login with a USAJOBS account is required).

Who is responsible for any costs related to meals, housing/lodging, or travel during a joint duty assignments?

Federal employees selected for a joint duty assignment are responsible for any costs related to meals, and or housing/lodging. A participants employing organization may pay for a temporary change of station. Travel funding related to the joint duty assignment is the responsibility of the host organization.

Who is responsible for an employee's performance evaluation on a joint duty assignment?

The employing organization supervisor is responsible for overseeing the performance evaluation that the participant already has in place at his or her permanent duty location.

Who is responsible for an employee's time and attendance during a joint duty assignment?

The participant's supervisor at his or her permanent duty location is responsible for certifying time and attendance.

What is the Joint Duty Program Memorandum of Agreement?

After a federal employee is selected for an assignment, the DHS Joint Duty Program Office sends the Memorandum of Agreement to the employing organization, the gaining organization, and the participant. The Memorandum of Agreement includes a start date for the selected employee and the roles and responsibilities for the the employing organization, the gaining organization, and the employee. The signature blocks in the Memorandum of Agreement must be signed off and returned to the DHS Joint Duty Program Office within 5 business days.

What are the requirements to complete a joint duty assignment?

During a joint duty assignment, participants must:

• Complete the DHS Joint Duty Program Training Course 15 days prior to starting an assignment.
• Establish assignment objectives within the first 30 days of the assignment;
• Complete a self-assessment of the duties performed at the mid-point of the assignment; and
• Complete a final review within the last 30 days of the assignment.

What is the purpose of the DHS Joint Duty Program training course?

The DHS Joint Duty Program training course provides selected employees with the knowledge, resources, and information to successfully complete a Joint Duty Assignment.

What are the three phases in the DHS Joint Duty Program Assignment Progress Plan?

The three phases in the DHS Joint Duty Program Assignment Progress Plan are:

• Phase 1: Establish assignment objectives within the first 30 days of the assignment;
• Phase 2: Complete a self-assessment of the duties performed at the mid-point of the assignment; and
• Phase 3: Complete a final review within the last 30 days of the assignment.
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Contact ODNI

The ODNI Office of Strategic Communications is responsible for managing all inquiries and correspondence from the public and the media. Before contacting ODNI, please review www.dni.gov to see if we have already posted the information you need.

Contact ODNI by Postal Mail

Please send your questions, comments, or suggestions to:

Office of the Director of National Intelligence

Office of Strategic Communications

Washington, D.C. 20511

By Fax: 703-275-1225

Send Correspondence to the Director of National Intelligence

Please send correspondence to:

The Honorable Avril Haines

Director of National Intelligence

Employment Verification

Need to verify an employee’s employment? Contact ODNI Human Resources

If you are a mortgage company, creditor, or potential employer, you may submit your request by fax or mail to ODNI.

ODNI does not provide verbal responses, nor itemize pay by overtime, bonuses, and awards. ODNI will not provide pay information that includes employer information.

Request by Fax: Please send employment verification requests to 703-275-1217

Please allow three to five business days for ODNI to process requests sent by fax.

If you prefer to mail an employment verification request please send to:

Human Resource Management

Please allow ten business days for ODNI to process requests by mail.

The Intelligence Community Inspector General

In accordance with Title 50 U.S.C.A. Section 3033, the Inspector General of the Intelligence Community (IC IG) conducts independent and objective audits, investigations, inspections, and reviews to promote economy, efficiency, effectiveness, and integration across the Intelligence Community.

Questions or comments about oversight of the Intelligence Community? Contact the Office of the Intelligence Community Inspector General .

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The Office of Civil Liberties, Privacy and Transparency (CLPT) leads the integration of civil liberties and privacy protections into the policies, procedures, programs and activities of the Intelligence Community (IC). Its overarching goal is to ensure that the IC operates within the full scope of its authorities in a manner that protects civil liberties and privacy, provides appropriate transparency, and earns and retains the trust of the American people.

To report a potential civil liberties and privacy violation or file a complaint, please review the requirements at the CLPT homepage .

Equal Employment Opportunity Complaints

The Intelligence Community Equal Employment Opportunity and Diversity (EEOD) Office is responsible for the overall management of the ODNI EEO and Diversity Program, and provides IC-wide oversight and guidance in developing, implementing, and measuring progress in EEO, diversity, and inclusion.

The IC EEOD Office is committed to providing equal employment opportunity for all employees and applicants based on merit and without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, and physical or mental disability.

Applicants or employees who believe they have been discriminated against on the bases of race, color, religion, sex/gender (sexual orientation and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history) and/or reprisal for prior participation in the EEO process may raise their concerns to the IC EEOD Office .

Prepublication Classification Review

If you have worked for the ODNI in a staff or contract capacity and are intending to share intelligence-related information with the public through social media posts, books or television and film productions, you will need to submit the materials for approval.

For guidance and instructions, please email ODNI Prepublication Review at [email protected] .

Freedom of Information Act Requests

The goal of the ODNI Freedom of Information Act / Privacy Act Office is to keep the public better informed about the agency’s efforts and to ensure U.S. security through the release of as much information as possible, consistent with the need to protect classified or sensitive information under the exemption provisions of these laws.

FOIA Resources

Careers and Employment

The Intelligence Community provides dynamic careers to talented professionals in almost every career category . The ODNI is a senior-level agency that provides oversight to the Intelligence Community. ODNI is primarily a staff organization that employs subject-matter experts in the areas of collection, analysis, acquisition, policy, human resources, and management.

Career Opportunities

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Intelligence Advanced Research Projects Activity tackles some of the most difficult challenges across the intelligence agencies and disciplines, and results from its programs are expected to transition to its IC customers. IARPA does not have an operational mission and does not deploy technologies directly to the field.

If you would like to learn more about engaging with IARPA on their highly innovative work that is already positively impacting the U.S. Intelligence Community and society in general, please follow the link below.

Working with IARPA

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Track the latest developments and stories of interest from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence:

Joint Duty - FAQs

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What is the IC Civilian Joint Duty Program?

The IC Civilian Joint Duty Program is the civilian personnel rotation program designed specifically for employees of the IC. It is similar to the joint duty program designed for the military services. It offers civilians professional opportunities to enhance their careers by experiencing the Intelligence Enterprise beyond their home elements. The IC Civilian Joint Duty Program helps to develop intelligence professionals who value and foster collaboration.

Why should I participate?

The Joint Duty program offers distinct, career advantages for participants, including rewarding experiences, leadership development, and networking. The program offers these opportunities:

• Better understanding of the scope and complexity of the Intelligence Community
• Opportunities to expand your professional networks through interagency collaboration
• Opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge of other IC organizations as well as see how your organization fits into the overall picture

What will this experience provide my home organization when I return?

A Joint Duty rotation offers your employing agency a more valuable, more experienced intelligence professional with professional networks in other IC organizations.

Who is eligible to participate in Joint Duty?

All government civilian Intelligence professionals, starting at Grade GS-11, Pay Band 3 who work in the Intelligence Community , are eligible to participate in the Joint Duty program with their home element’s approval. Contact your element's IC Civilian Joint Duty Program Manager for other eligibility and application requirements.

How do I find out more about the Joint Duty program?

Please contact your element’s Joint Duty Program Manager for information regarding Joint Duty. You can also visit the Joint Duty website on the classified system at https://jointduty.ic.gov or the unclassified Joint Duty website (click here ).

What are some of the ways to earn Joint Duty Credit?

There are many ways to earn Joint Duty Credit:

• Completion of a Joint Duty rotational assignment of 12 or more months in another IC element after September 11, 2001. Short-term rotations over a 36-month period may be counted toward this requirement, provided that each assignment is not less than 90 consecutive days.
• Deployment to a designated combat zone for at least 179 days or through multiple assignments lasting at least 90 days with a cumulative total of 179 days within a 36-month period.
• Earning an undergraduate or graduate degree from the National Intelligence University through established full-time resident courses of study.
• Work experience outside the IC also may qualify for Joint Duty credit if they meet the criteria established in Intelligence Community Policy Guidance (ICPG) 660.1.

Please see Intelligence Community Directive (ICD) 660 and ICPG 660.1 for guidance on all the methods of earning Joint Duty Credit. Each element is responsible for adjudicating Joint Duty credit claims from employees. Please contact your element's Joint Duty Program Manager for guidance on their claims process. Vacancy announcements and position descriptions of currently available Joint Duty positions can be found on the classified Joint Duty websites at https://jointduty.ic.gov or on the unclassified side click here . Your agency’s Joint Duty Program Manager can also assist you.

How do I find out what Joint Duty rotations are available?

Vacancy announcements of currently available Joint Duty rotations are posted on the classified IC Joint Duty website at https://jointduty.ic.gov, or on the unclassified side click here . Your element’s Joint Duty Program Manager can also assist you.

How do I apply for a Joint Duty rotation?

Joint Duty rotation vacancies are posted on the IC Joint Duty website located on the classified system at https://jointduty.ic.gov and click here for the unclassified network. Dependent on your element's internal procedures, you may be able to apply for the vacancy through the Joint Duty Assignment Tool (JDAT), an online application process available on the classified system. To be considered for a vacancy, you must submit your resume and narrative describing your qualifications for the position by the vacancy close date. Your employing element will have 10 days to formally nominate your application for the gaining element to review after the vacancy closes. Once an employee is selected, a Memorandum of Understanding must be prepared and signed by the employing and gaining elements  and employee before the employee can begin the Joint Duty rotation. Please note that each IC element may have additional procedures for its employees to apply for Joint Duty rotations. For this reason, you should contact your element’s Joint Duty Program Manager for details.

How does each element approve individuals who want to participate in the Joint Duty program?

Each element has its own process. Contact your element’s Joint Duty Program Manager for more information on the application process.

Am I allowed to apply for a Joint Duty position that is above or below my current grade?

Yes. A candidate may apply for positions one grade or band below to one grade or band above their current grade or band. Please note that some elements have more restrictive policies that only allow lateral rotations. Please contact your agency’s Joint Duty Program Manager for specifics. A Joint Duty rotation grade does not affect your current grade, nor will it automatically promote or demote you once the assignment is complete. Promotion and other actions will be determined through your employing element’s regular personnel management system.

Is Joint Duty a prerequisite for a promotion to the senior executive ranks?

Yes. Joint Duty credit is mandatory for promotion to Senior Executive in the IC, unless a waiver, for an individual, or an exemption, for a position, is obtained from the DNI or USD(I).

How many Joint Duty rotations do I need to complete in my career to meet the requirement for promotion to the senior executive ranks?

Only one Joint Duty rotation is required. However, you are encouraged to further broaden or deepen your technical skills through additional assignments, as appropriate to your individual and element goals for your career development. Review your element's policies and procedures for further guidance.

Who is responsible for my performance evaluation while serving in a Joint Duty rotational assignment?

Intelligence Community Directive (ICD) 651 “ Performance Management for the IC Workforce” and ICD 656 “Performance Management for IC Seniors” specify the gaining element is responsible for completing performance objectives and evaluations for the individual assigned to them on a Joint Duty rotational assignment. The evaluations will be reviewed and approved by a management official in the gaining element. The reviewing official will consult with a designated point of contact from the individual’s employing element and provide that official with an opportunity to review and provide additional written comments on the employee’s performance, which will be included in the evaluation form before a final performance evaluation is provided to the employee.

Will my previous military experience and/or work experience gained from outside the Intelligence Community (Federal and non-Federal) count as Joint Duty?

Each IC element adjudicates such claims on a case-by-case basis. In general, the nature of your previous military or work experience must meet the criteria established in ICD 660 to count for Joint Duty Credit. Contact your element’s Joint Duty Program Manager for more details.

If a person was grandfathered into a senior position without Joint Duty credit and then desires to make a lateral move, are they still required to attain the Joint Duty credit first?

No. Lateral moves do not require additional Joint Duty Credit. However, moving up to a higher Senior Tier does require the individual to have earned Joint Duty Credit while serving in their current Tier level. Additionally, movement from a Defense Intelligence Senior Leader (DISL) position to a Defense Intelligence Senior Executive Services (DISES) position, or vice versa, even if it is of the same Tier level, also requires the individual to have earned Joint Duty Credit while serving in their current position. Grandfathered credit does not apply in these instances.

As a non-Intelligence Community civilian U.S. government employee, can I apply to a Joint Duty vacancy?

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Synonyms of assignment

• as in lesson
• as in appointment
• More from M-W
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Thesaurus Definition of assignment

Synonyms & Similar Words

• responsibility
• undertaking
• requirement
• designation
• appointment
• authorization
• installment
• installation
• destination
• emplacement
• investiture
• singling (out)

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• dethronement

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun assignment contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of assignment are chore , duty , job , stint , and task . While all these words mean "a piece of work to be done," assignment implies a definite limited task assigned by one in authority.

When is it sensible to use chore instead of assignment ?

While the synonyms chore and assignment are close in meaning, chore implies a minor routine activity necessary for maintaining a household or farm.

When is duty a more appropriate choice than assignment ?

Although the words duty and assignment have much in common, duty implies an obligation to perform or responsibility for performance.

When might job be a better fit than assignment ?

The synonyms job and assignment are sometimes interchangeable, but job applies to a piece of work voluntarily performed; it may sometimes suggest difficulty or importance.

When could stint be used to replace assignment ?

In some situations, the words stint and assignment are roughly equivalent. However, stint implies a carefully allotted or measured quantity of assigned work or service.

When can task be used instead of assignment ?

The meanings of task and assignment largely overlap; however, task implies work imposed by a person in authority or an employer or by circumstance.

Thesaurus Entries Near assignment

assignments

Cite this Entry

“Assignment.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/assignment. Accessed 22 Apr. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on assignment

Nglish: Translation of assignment for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of assignment for Arabic Speakers

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For Patriots long snapper, victory on the battlefield means something very different

It’s NFL Draft week, so I’m going to bookend the event with two columns about football and the military . Here's the first.

West Point grad Douglas MacArthur once said, “On the fields of friendly strife are sown the seeds that on other days, on other fields will bear the fruits of victory.”

New cadets memorize those words during the first few weeks of Cadet Basic Training. In layman’s terms, the lessons learned in athletic competition will likely lead to winning more battles in real wars.

This week’s column is about Patriots long snapper Joe Cardona . Even though he played for Navy , Joe is an excellent example of MacArthur’s quote playing out in real life. But victory does not come without a price. Since 1942, 26 men who played in the NFL have died in the service of our country.

Blue-collar beginnings

“I grew up in East County, a blue-collar suburb of San Diego,” Joe Cardona told me.

“My dad joined the Navy out of high school,” Cardona told U.S. Navy Reserve magazine in May 2022. “He was an aviation electronics technician who did seven years active duty and spent 17 years in the Reserve.”

When his father left the Navy, he continued training sailors and Marines on avionics platforms for various aircraft. “I grew up around the Navy and Marine Corps,” Cardona said.

Cardona told U.S. Navy Reserve magazine, “When I was offered an opportunity to attend the Naval Academy, I jumped at it.”

On to Newport and Annapolis

Cardona’s introduction to Rhode Island came when he attended the  Naval Academy Preparatory School in Newport .

At Annapolis, Cardona became only the second freshman in Navy history to start at long snapper. He lettered four times, and the Midshipmen played in three bowl games and defeated arch-rival Army all four years. According to the [Annapolis] Capital Gazette in 2015 , he was not charged with a single bad snap his entire career.

I asked when he'd started seriously thinking he had a shot at the NFL.

“Seeing the jets fly over every day as a kid … that's all I ever wanted to do. But I was disqualified from flying jets.”

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Unfortunately, his sitting height measurement exceeded Navy limits. If he ever had to eject from a damaged plane, he would not survive the explosive charge. His upper body was too tall.

“They made it very clear. Not all of me was making it out. And the cut-off was my head.”

If you've ever wondered why you don’t see many big, tall Navy fighter pilots, there’s your answer.

Pivoting to a new dream

His lifelong dream quashed, Joe weighed other options. “If I can't fly jets, I need to find something else I love.”

He decided to become the best football player he could – to give himself a shot at playing in the NFL.

“Not that I wasn't already working at that. But I looked at other long snappers, and even though they played for big-time schools, I realized, ‘I’m better than them.'

“You never go to a service academy thinking you're going to play in the NFL. … But, hey, if I'm in really good shape, and I'm big and strong, the Navy will be able to benefit.”

Word got around, and NFL scouts took an interest.

One team in particular had its eye on Cardona. Former Patriots head coach Bill Belichick had a lifelong affinity for Navy. His father, Steve, had coached there for 34 years. In 2015 the Patriots used the 166th pick to draft Cardona in the fifth round. He was only the fourth long snapper ever drafted.

What was draft day like?

“It was surreal, that's for sure,” Cardona said. ”I expected to be picked in the seventh round. So I was very surprised at how early I got the call.”

When asked how much Belichick’s connections to Navy had to do with that decision, Cardona replied, “Well, it was ultimately Bill's choice. Having been in the building with him for the past nine years, I know it wasn't just because I played for Navy. But perhaps I was a little higher on his radar because of it.”

Cardona was the first Annapolis grad to be drafted since 1993.

He's also the second Navy player to win more than one Super Bowl, joining Roger Staubach in that exclusive club. The Patriots won Super Bowls in 2015, 2017 and 2019 with Cardona as long snapper.

NFL and the Navy – similar cultures

From his first day with the team, Cardona stepped into an organizational culture very similar to the Navy’s.

In February 2022 Cardona told Capital Gazette that a successful mission depends on getting many different parts to work together. “Preparing for a football game from a strategical, operational and tactical level mirrors that of preparing for a mission in the military.”

Cardona points to sports in early civilizations, saying they were “meant to train young men for combat.”

At the same time, he believes the phrase “going to battle” is overused by football players and coaches alike. In the NFL, the stakes aren’t life or death.

Reactions from fellow players

To many people in his football life, the military is the furthest thing from their mind. “They must think you're on another planet,” I said.

“Teammates ask me about the military all the time – especially when I’m in uniform. They'll ask what I do, and what military life is like.

“I say, 'This is what we do, this is our job. It's what we pour our passion into.' They can understand that, because football is what they do – it’s their job and their passion. And the military is one of the few other career paths where young people go out and perform dangerous tasks. When they look at soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines, a lot of football players see similarities between the two careers.

Balancing football requirements and Navy duty

During his rookie season, Cardona spent his off days working a 24-hour shift as Command Duty Officer (CDO) at the Naval Academy Preparatory School in Newport, according to vice.com .

In the Navy, CDOs are given a lighter load the day after their duty. Not so for Cardona, who made the trek back to Gillette Stadium for practice.

A few years later, Cardona was promoted to lieutenant in front of his teammates at Gillette Stadium. WEEI reported that June 6, 2019, was a day Joe Cardona would never forget: that night he also received his Super Bowl LIII ring. 

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WEEI asked quarterback Tom Brady about it. "It’s a big commitment Joe’s made," Brady said. "Joe does it very proudly, and he does a great job [explaining] what it means to him. We see the work he does for the Patriots, but also the work that he does for our country.”

Coach Belichick added, “Joe represents everything we want to stand for and … his real job, defending our freedom, is at the very top of the list.”

He commented on how challenging Joe’s dual life was: ”He was on active duty in Newport; his day job was the Navy and his second job was pro football. Obviously, that’s a lot different from every other player in the room.”

Cardona’s current Navy assignment

As an active reservist, Cardona is a department head in  Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron Eight , based at Naval Station Newport.

This small boat unit provides security in challenging areas such as the Horn of Africa. For the last two years, Cardona has spent his active-duty time supporting their mission in Djibouti, a country at the confluence of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. It is right across the water from Yemen, where the Houthis have been wreaking havoc on commercial shipping.

“U.S. ships are being threatened by ground-to-surface missiles,” said Cardona. “We provide port security and protection from smaller enemy craft.”

Last year, he was able to join his unit in Djibouti and observe the mission firsthand. “I got to go out on the boats, but what I really enjoyed more was seeing my sailors operating so efficiently without me.”

Life after football

I asked what life might be when he hangs up his spikes. He replied, “I don’t really know. Maybe go to business school or take a nice pivot into that world.

“But I'm still qualified to do this Navy job. I could serve in a more active capacity, but we'll see where I am in life and what steps I have to take. For sure, family will have some role in it as well.”

Cardona continues to serve because he wants to, not because he has to. “I'm already past my minimum obligation; here I am going into year 10.

“I take a lot of pride in what I do. And I'm very lucky to have had meaningful reserve jobs. As long as you're getting fulfilled by the service, and you're finding good opportunity – I can definitely see myself staying in.”

“My service time has been pretty special,” he said. “I’ve been to Africa as well as Asia. Got to see Korea. … that was pretty interesting around 2018 …” when North Korea saber-rattled about its nuclear program.

“I was in a Korea-centric unit," he said. "It was really interesting to see that situation unfold. Being in the conversation in a relevant unit was pretty cool.”

For the most part, people only know Joe as a football player. “While I've been very fortunate to represent the Navy on the field, my real Navy jobs take on a much bigger role than just being a PR ambassador.

“At the end of the day, it's important for me to be doing a real Navy job, as I do now with my reserve unit.”

Cardona also volunteers with veterans organizations and military family groups. “That work is also important to me. Just having the opportunity to represent them – I've always taken that seriously.”

In May 2022, Cmdr. Aleksei Razsadin, commanding officer of Navy Reserve Center Newport, told U.S. Naval Reserve magazine, “Humility best sums up Lt. Cardona, despite his key role on a championship-contending, high-profile football team.

“Even during football season, he’s providing leadership at our Center. No one even suspects he’s a football player. They just see an exceptionally skilled Naval Officer who inspires and leads by example.”

The NFL agrees. Cardona was named the USAA 2023 Salute to Service award winner. He was recognized at NFL Honors night, on Feb. 8, for “exceptional efforts … to honor and support the military community.”

Announcements

South Kingstown’s International Museum of World War II to host three free events 

Museum address is 344 Main St., South Kingstown. Each event is  free , but attendees must register online at Eventbrite. Search for  each session  at  eventbrite.com ,  "Find Events."  and enter the sessions you would like to attend.

Friday, April 26; 6-8 p.m. – Author Howard Mansfield will perform a reading for his newest release,  "I Will Tell No War Stories: What Our Fathers Left Unsaid about WWII."  

Thursday, May 2; 6-8 p.m.  – George Luz Jr. and WWII collector Bill Shea will detail the experiences of soldiers portrayed in the HBO miniseries  "Band of Brothers,"  including Luz's father, George, who was featured prominently in the film .

Tuesday, May 14; 6-8 p.m. – Iraq and Afghanistan veteran Andy Biggio , author of the bestselling World War II book series "The Rifle," will discuss his experiences as a former Marine and Boston police officer.

For further details, contact Thom Brassil at (401) 580-9622 or [email protected] .