10 USC Ch. 61: RETIREMENT OR SEPARATION FOR PHYSICAL DISABILITY
Result 1 of 1
   
 
10 USC Ch. 61: RETIREMENT OR SEPARATION FOR PHYSICAL DISABILITY
From Title 10—ARMED FORCESSubtitle A—General Military LawPART II—PERSONNEL

CHAPTER 61—RETIREMENT OR SEPARATION FOR PHYSICAL DISABILITY

Sec.
1201.
Regulars and members on active duty for more than 30 days: retirement.
1202.
Regulars and members on active duty for more than 30 days: temporary disability retired list.
1203.
Regulars and members on active duty for more than 30 days: separation.
1204.
Members on active duty for 30 days or less or on inactive-duty training: retirement.
1205.
Members on active duty for 30 days or less: temporary disability retired list.
1206.
Members on active duty for 30 days or less or on inactive-duty training: separation.
1206a.
Reserve component members unable to perform duties when ordered to active duty: disability system processing.
1207.
Disability from intentional misconduct or willful neglect: separation.
1207a.
Members with over eight years of active service: eligibility for disability retirement for pre-existing conditions.
1208.
Computation of service.
1209.
Transfer to inactive status list instead of separation.
1210.
Members on temporary disability retired list: periodic physical examination; final determination of status.
1211.
Members on temporary disability retired list: return to active duty; promotion.
1212.
Disability severance pay.
1213.
Effect of separation on benefits and claims.
1214.
Right to full and fair hearing.
1214a.
Members determined fit for duty in Physical Evaluation Board: prohibition on involuntary administrative separation or denial of reenlistment due to unsuitability based on medical conditions considered in evaluation.
1215.
Members other than Regulars: applicability of laws.
1216.
Secretaries: powers, functions, and duties.
1216a.
Determinations of disability: requirements and limitations on determinations.
1217.
Academy cadets and midshipmen: applicability of chapter.
1218.
Discharge or release from active duty: claims for compensation, pension, or hospitalization.
1218a.
Discharge or release from active duty: transition assistance for reserve component members injured while on active duty.
1219.
Statement of origin of disease or injury: limitations.
[1220.
Repealed.]
1221.
Effective date of retirement or placement of name on temporary disability retired list.
1222.
Physical evaluation boards.

        

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2011Pub. L. 112–81, div. A, title V, §527(c)(2), Dec. 31, 2011, 125 Stat. 1402, substituted "Members determined fit for duty in Physical Evaluation Board: prohibition on involuntary administrative separation or denial of reenlistment due to unsuitability based on medical conditions considered in evaluation" for "Members determined fit for duty in Physical Evaluation Board evaluation: prohibition on involuntary administrative separation due to unsuitability based on medical conditions considered in evaluation" in item 1214a.

Pub. L. 111–383, div. A, title V, §534(a)(2), Jan. 7, 2011, 124 Stat. 4217, added item 1214a.

2009Pub. L. 111–84, div. A, title VI, §641(b), Oct. 28, 2009, 123 Stat. 2365, added item 1218a.

2008Pub. L. 110–181, div. A, title XVI, §1642(b), Jan. 28, 2008, 122 Stat. 465, added item 1216a.

2006Pub. L. 109–364, div. A, title V, §597(a)(2), Oct. 17, 2006, 120 Stat. 2237, added item 1222.

2004Pub. L. 108–375, div. A, title V, §§521(b), 555(b)(2), Oct. 28, 2004, 118 Stat. 1888, 1914, added item 1206a and substituted "Academy cadets and midshipmen: applicability of chapter" for "Cadets, midshipmen, and aviation cadets: chapter does not apply to" in item 1217.

1999Pub. L. 106–65, div. A, title VI, §653(a)(2), Oct. 5, 1999, 113 Stat. 666, added item 1207a.

1997Pub. L. 105–85, div. A, title V, §513(d)(3), Nov. 18, 1997, 111 Stat. 1731, inserted "or on inactive-duty training" after "Members on active duty for 30 days or less" in items 1204 and 1206.

1986Pub. L. 99–661, div. A, title VI, §604(d)(4), Nov. 14, 1986, 100 Stat. 3876, struck out "; disability from injury" after "30 days or less" in items 1204, 1205, 1206.

1962Pub. L. 87–651, title I, §107(e), Sept. 7, 1962, 76 Stat. 509, substituted "Discharge or release from active duty: claims for compensation, pension, or hospitalization" for "Explanation of rights before discharge" in item 1218, and "Statement of origin of disease or injury: limitations" for "Statement against interest void" in item 1219, and struck out item 1220 "Location of accredited representatives at military installations".

1958Pub. L. 85–861, §1(28)(C), Sept. 2, 1958, 72 Stat. 1451, added item 1221.

1957Pub. L. 85–56, title XXII, §2201(31)(B), June 17, 1957, 71 Stat. 161, eff. Jan. 1, 1958, added items 1218 to 1220.


Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Continuing Military Service for Certain Members Eligible for Chapter 61 Retirement

Pub. L. 118–31, div. A, title V, §529, Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 256, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 22, 2023], the Secretary of Defense shall prescribe regulations that authorize the Secretary of the military department concerned to authorize a covered member to continue to serve in the Armed Forces—

"(1) in the current military occupational specialty of such covered member, for which the covered member may not be deployable; or

"(2) in a military occupational specialty for which the covered member is deployable.

"(b) Rule of Construction.—A covered member who completes 20 years of service computed under section 1208 of title 10, United States Code shall not be denied any benefit—

"(1) for which the covered member is eligible under laws administered by the Secretary of Defense or the Secretary of Veterans Affairs; and

"(2) solely on the basis that the covered member elected to continue to serve in the Armed Forces instead of taking retirement under chapter 61 of title 10, United States Code.

"(c) Covered Member Defined.—In this section, the term 'covered member' means a member of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Space Force—

"(1) whom the Secretary of the military department concerned determines possesses skill or experience vital to the Armed Force concerned;

"(2) who incurs a disability—

"(A) while eligible for special pay under section 310 of title 37, United States Code; and

"(B) that renders the member eligible for retirement under chapter 61 of title 10, United States Code; and

"(3) who seeks to continue to serve in the Armed Forces instead of taking such retirement."

§1201. Regulars and members on active duty for more than 30 days: retirement

(a) Retirement.—Upon a determination by the Secretary concerned that a member described in subsection (c) is unfit to perform the duties of the member's office, grade, rank, or rating because of physical disability incurred while entitled to basic pay or while absent as described in subsection (c)(3), the Secretary may retire the member, with retired pay computed under section 1401 of this title, if the Secretary also makes the determinations with respect to the member and that disability specified in subsection (b).

(b) Required Determinations of Disability.—Determinations referred to in subsection (a) are determinations by the Secretary that—

(1) based upon accepted medical principles, the disability is of a permanent nature and stable;

(2) the disability is not the result of the member's intentional misconduct or willful neglect, and was not incurred during a period of unauthorized absence; and

(3) either—

(A) the member has at least 20 years of service computed under section 1208 of this title; or

(B) the disability is at least 30 percent under the standard schedule of rating disabilities in use by the Department of Veterans Affairs at the time of the determination; and either—

(i) the disability was not noted at the time of the member's entrance on active duty (unless clear and unmistakable evidence demonstrates that the disability existed before the member's entrance on active duty and was not aggravated by active military service);

(ii) the disability is the proximate result of performing active duty;

(iii) the disability was incurred in line of duty in time of war or national emergency; or

(iv) the disability was incurred in line of duty after September 14, 1978.


(c) Eligible Members.—This section and sections 1202 and 1203 of this title apply to the following members:

(1) A member of a regular component of the armed forces entitled to basic pay.

(2) Any other member of the armed forces entitled to basic pay who has been called or ordered to active duty (other than for training under section 10148(a) of this title) for a period of more than 30 days.

(3) Any other member of the armed forces who is on active duty but is not entitled to basic pay by reason of section 502(b) of title 37 due to authorized absence (A) to participate in an educational program, or (B) for an emergency purpose, as determined by the Secretary concerned.

(Aug. 10, 1956, ch. 1041, 70A Stat. 91; Pub. L. 85–861, §1(28)(A), Sept. 2, 1958, 72 Stat. 1451; Pub. L. 87–651, title I, §107(a), Sept. 7, 1962, 76 Stat. 508; Pub. L. 95–377, §3(1), Sept. 19, 1978, 92 Stat. 719; Pub. L. 96–343, §10(c)(1), Sept. 8, 1980, 94 Stat. 1129; Pub. L. 96–513, title I, §117, Dec. 12, 1980, 94 Stat. 2878; Pub. L. 99–145, title V, §513(a)(1)(A), Nov. 8, 1985, 99 Stat. 627; Pub. L. 101–189, div. A, title XVI, §1621(a)(1), Nov. 29, 1989, 103 Stat. 1602; Pub. L. 103–337, div. A, title XVI, §1671(c)(6), Oct. 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 3014; Pub. L. 104–201, div. A, title V, §572(a), Sept. 23, 1996, 110 Stat. 2533; Pub. L. 110–181, div. A, title XVI, §1641(a), Jan. 28, 2008, 122 Stat. 464; Pub. L. 110–417, [div. A], title VII, §727(a), Oct. 14, 2008, 122 Stat. 4510.)

Historical and Revision Notes
1956 Act
Revised sectionSource (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)
1201 37:272(a) (less clause (5), and less 2d proviso).

37:272(b) (less clause (5), and less 2d and last provisos).

37:272(f) (less applicability to 37:272(c) and (e)).

Oct. 12, 1949, ch. 681, §402(a) (less clause (5), and less 2d proviso), (b) (less clause (5), and less 2d and last provisos), (f) (less applicability to §402(c) and (e)), 63 Stat. 816, 817, 820.

The words "any other member" are substituted for the words "a member of a Reserve component", in 37:272(a) and (b), since the words "Reserve component" are defined by section 102(k) of the Career Compensation Act of 1949, 63 Stat. 805 (37 U.S.C. 231(k)), to include members appointed, enlisted, or inducted without component. The words "active duty (other than for training)" are substituted for the words "extended active duty" for clarity and to reflect the opinion of the Comptroller General in 31 Comp. Gen. 95, 99. The words "if the Secretary also determines that" are substituted for the words "That if condition (5) above is met by a finding that", in 37:272(a) and (b). The words "of such member", "upon retirement", and "to receive", in 37:272(a), are omitted as surplusage.

In clause (1), the words "based upon accepted medical principles" are inserted as a necessary implication of the rule stated in 37:272(a)(5) and (b)(5).

Clause (3)(A) is substituted for 37:272(f) (less applicability to 37:272(c) and (e)). 37:272(f) is omitted as surplusage.

In clause (3)(B), the words "at the time of the determination" are substituted for the word "current", in 37:272(a) and (b).

Clause (3)(B)(iii) is substituted for 37:272(a) (last proviso).

1958 Act
Revised sectionSource (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)
1201 [No source]. [No source].

The amendment reflects the Act of April 23, 1956, ch. 209 (70 Stat 115). (See opinion of Comp. Gen., B–130269, March 18, 1957.)

1962 Act

The changes correct typographical errors.


Editorial Notes

Amendments

2008—Subsec. (b)(3)(B)(i). Pub. L. 110–417 struck out "the member has six months or more of active military service and" before "the disability was not noted" and substituted "(unless clear and unmistakable evidence demonstrates that the disability existed before the member's entrance on active duty and was not aggravated by active military service)" for "(unless compelling evidence or medical judgment is such to warrant a finding that the disability existed before the member's entrance on active duty)".

Pub. L. 110–181 amended cl. (i) generally. Prior to amendment, cl. (i) read as follows: "the member has at least eight years of service computed under section 1208 of this title;".

1996Pub. L. 104–201 added subsecs. (a) and (c), designated existing provisions as subsec. (b), and substituted introductory provisions of subsec. (b) for "Upon a determination by the Secretary concerned that a member of a regular component of the armed forces entitled to basic pay, or any other member of the armed forces entitled to basic pay who has been called or ordered to active duty (other than for training under section 10148(a) of this title) for a period of more than 30 days, is unfit to perform the duties of his office, grade, rank, or rating because of physical disability incurred while entitled to basic pay, the Secretary may retire the member, with retired pay computed under section 1401 of this title, if the Secretary also determines that—".

1994Pub. L. 103–337 substituted "10148(a)" for "270(b)" in introductory provisions.

1989—Par. (3)(B). Pub. L. 101–189 substituted "Department of Veterans Affairs" for "Veterans' Administration".

1985—Par. (1). Pub. L. 99–145 inserted "and stable" after "permanent nature".

1980—Par. (3)(B)(iv). Pub. L. 96–513 substituted "after September 14, 1978" for "during the period beginning on September 15, 1978, and ending on September 30, 1982, except that the condition provided for in this item shall not be effective during such period unless the President determines that such condition should be effective during such period and issues an Executive order to that effect".

Pub. L. 96–343 added cl. (iv).

1978—Par. (3)(B)(iv). Pub. L. 95–377 added cl. (iv) which provided additional condition, effective on Presidential determination, that the disability was incurred in the line of duty during Sept. 15, 1978, through Sept. 30, 1979, and which terminated on Sept. 30, 1979. See Effective and Termination Dates of 1978 Amendment note set out under this section.

1962Pub. L. 87–651 substituted "training under section 270(b) of this title)" for "training) under section 270(b) of this title".

1958Pub. L. 85–861 inserted "under section 270(b) of this title" after "(other than for training)".


Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1996 Amendment

Pub. L. 104–201, div. A, title V, §572(d), Sept. 23, 1996, 110 Stat. 2533, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section and sections 1202 and 1203 of this title] shall take effect on the date of the enactment of this Act [Sept. 23, 1996] and shall apply with respect to physical disabilities incurred on or after such date."

Effective Date of 1994 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 103–337 effective Dec. 1, 1994, except as otherwise provided, see section 1691 of Pub. L. 103–337, set out as an Effective Date note under section 10001 of this title.

Effective Date of 1980 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 96–513 effective Sept. 15, 1981, but the authority to prescribe regulations under the amendment by Pub. L. 96–513 effective on Dec. 12, 1980, see section 701 of Pub. L. 96–513, set out as a note under section 101 of this title.

Effective and Termination Dates of 1978 Amendment

Pub. L. 95–377, §3, Sept. 19, 1978, 92 Stat. 719, provided that the amendment made by that section is effective only for the period beginning Sept. 15, 1978, and ending Sept. 30, 1979.

Public Health Service

Authority vested by this chapter in "military departments", "the Secretary concerned", or "the Secretary of Defense" to be exercised, with respect to commissioned officers of Public Health Service, by Secretary of Health and Human Services or his designee, see section 213a(b) of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Authority vested by this chapter in "military departments", "the Secretary concerned", or "the Secretary of Defense" to be exercised, with respect to commissioned officer corps of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, by Secretary of Commerce or Secretary's designee, see section 3071 of Title 33, Navigation and Navigable Waters.


Executive Documents

Executive Order No. 12239

Ex. Ord. No. 12239, Sept. 21, 1980, 45 F.R. 62967, which related to suspension of certain promotion and disability separation limitations, was revoked by Ex. Ord. No. 12396, Dec. 9, 1982, 47 F.R. 55897, set out as a note under section 301 of Title 3, The President.

§1202. Regulars and members on active duty for more than 30 days: temporary disability retired list

Upon a determination by the Secretary concerned that a member described in section 1201(c) of this title would be qualified for retirement under section 1201 of this title but for the fact that his disability is not determined to be of a permanent nature and stable, the Secretary shall, if he also determines that accepted medical principles indicate that the disability may be of a permanent nature, place the member's name on the temporary disability retired list, with retired pay computed under section 1401 of this title.

(Aug. 10, 1956, ch. 1041, 70A Stat. 92; Pub. L. 85–861, §1(28)(A), Sept. 2, 1958, 72 Stat. 1451; Pub. L. 87–651, title I, §107(a), Sept. 7, 1962, 76 Stat. 508; Pub. L. 99–145, title V, §513(a)(1)(B), Nov. 8, 1985, 99 Stat. 627; Pub. L. 103–337, div. A, title XVI, §1671(c)(6), Oct. 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 3014; Pub. L. 104–201, div. A, title V, §572(b), Sept. 23, 1996, 110 Stat. 2533.)

Historical and Revision Notes
1956 Act
Revised sectionSource (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)
1202 37:272(a) (clause (5)).

37:272(b) (clause (5)).

Oct. 12, 1949, ch. 681, §402(a) (clause (5)), (b) (clause (5)), 63 Stat. 816, 817.

The first 82 words are inserted for clarity and are based on the rule stated in section 1201 of this title, which restates that part of 37:272(a), (b), and (f) relating to retirement for physical disability. The revised section incorporates by reference those provisions which are identical for retirement and for placement on the temporary disability retired list. This is possible, since 37:272(f) applies to placement on the temporary disability retired list as well as to retirement (see opinion of the Judge Advocate General of the Army (JAGA 1953/1900, 9 Mar. 1953)).

1958 Act
Revised sectionSource (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)
1202 [No source]. [No source].

The amendment reflects the Act of April 23, 1956, ch. 209 (70 Stat 115). (See opinion of Comp. Gen., B–130269, March 18, 1957.)

1962 Act

The changes correct typographical errors.


Editorial Notes

Amendments

1996Pub. L. 104–201 substituted "a member described in section 1201(c) of this title" for "a member of a regular component of the armed forces entitled to basic pay, or any other member of the armed forces entitled to basic pay who has been called or ordered to active duty (other than for training under section 10148(a) of this title) for a period of more than 30 days,".

1994Pub. L. 103–337 substituted "10148(a)" for "270(b)".

1985Pub. L. 99–145 inserted "and stable" after "determined to be of a permanent nature".

1962Pub. L. 87–651 substituted "training under section 270(b) of this title)" for "training) under section 270(b) of this title".

1958Pub. L. 85–861 inserted "under section 270(b) of this title" after "(other than for training)".


Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1996 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 104–201 effective Sept. 23, 1996, and applicable with respect to physical disabilities incurred on or after such date, see section 572(d) of Pub. L. 104–201, set out as a note under section 1201 of this title.

Effective Date of 1994 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 103–337 effective Dec. 1, 1994, except as otherwise provided, see section 1691 of Pub. L. 103–337, set out as an Effective Date note under section 10001 of this title.

§1203. Regulars and members on active duty for more than 30 days: separation

(a) Separation.—Upon a determination by the Secretary concerned that a member described in section 1201(c) of this title is unfit to perform the duties of the member's office, grade, rank, or rating because of physical disability incurred while entitled to basic pay or while absent as described in section 1201(c)(3) of this title, the member may be separated from the member's armed force, with severance pay computed under section 1212 of this title, if the Secretary also makes the determinations with respect to the member and that disability specified in subsection (b).

(b) Required Determinations of Disability.—Determinations referred to in subsection (a) are determinations by the Secretary that—

(1) the member has less than 20 years of service computed under section 1208 of this title;

(2) the disability is not the result of the member's intentional misconduct or willful neglect, and was not incurred during a period of unauthorized absence;

(3) based upon accepted medical principles, the disability is or may be of a permanent nature; and

(4) either—

(A) the disability is less than 30 percent under the standard schedule of rating disabilities in use by the Department of Veterans Affairs at the time of the determination, and the disability was (i) the proximate result of performing active duty, (ii) incurred in line of duty in time of war or national emergency, or (iii) incurred in line of duty after September 14, 1978;

(B) the disability is less than 30 percent under the standard schedule of rating disabilities in use by the Department of Veterans Affairs at the time of the determination, the disability was not noted at the time of the member's entrance on active duty (unless clear and unmistakable evidence demonstrates that the disability existed before the member's entrance on active duty and was not aggravated by active military service), or

(C) the disability is at least 30 percent under the standard schedule of rating disabilities in use by the Department of Veterans Affairs at the time of the determination, the disability was neither (i) the proximate result of performing active duty, (ii) incurred in line of duty in time of war or national emergency, nor (iii) incurred in line of duty after September 14, 1978, and the member has less than eight years of service computed under section 1208 of this title on the date when he would otherwise be retired under section 1201 of this title or placed on the temporary disability retired list under section 1202 of this title.


However, if the member is eligible for transfer to the inactive status list under section 1209 of this title, and so elects, he shall be transferred to that list instead of being separated.

(Aug. 10, 1956, ch. 1041, 70A Stat. 92; Pub. L. 85–861, §1(28)(A), Sept. 2, 1958, 72 Stat. 1451; Pub. L. 87–651, title I, §107(a), Sept. 7, 1962, 76 Stat. 508; Pub. L. 95–377, §3(2), (3), Sept. 19, 1978, 92 Stat. 719, 720; Pub. L. 96–343, §10(c)(2), (3), Sept. 8, 1980, 94 Stat. 1129; Pub. L. 96–513, title I, §117, Dec. 12, 1980, 94 Stat. 2878; Pub. L. 101–189, div. A, title XVI, §1621(a)(1), Nov. 29, 1989, 103 Stat. 1602; Pub. L. 103–337, div. A, title XVI, §1671(c)(6), Oct. 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 3014; Pub. L. 104–201, div. A, title V, §572(c), Sept. 23, 1996, 110 Stat. 2533; Pub. L. 110–181, div. A, title XVI, §1641(b), Jan. 28, 2008, 122 Stat. 465; Pub. L. 110–417, [div. A], title VII, §727(b), Oct. 14, 2008, 122 Stat. 4510; Pub. L. 111–383, div. A, title X, §1075(b)(19), (e)(12), Jan. 7, 2011, 124 Stat. 4370, 4375.)

Historical and Revision Notes
1956 Act
Revised sectionSource (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)
1203 37:272(a) (2d proviso).

37:272(b) (2d and last provisos).

Oct. 12, 1949, ch. 681, §402(a) (2d proviso), (b) (2d and last provisos), 63 Stat. 816, 817.

To state fully in the revised section the rule contained in 37:272(a) (2d proviso) and 272(b) (2d and last provisos), the provisions of 37:272(a) (less clause (5), and less 1st proviso), 272(b) (less clause (5), and less 1st proviso) and 272(f) (less applicability to 37:272(c) and (e)), also contained in section 1201 of this title, are repeated. The words "the member may be separated" are substituted for the words "the member concerned shall not be eligible for any disability retirement provided in this section, but may be separated for physical disability," in 37:272(a) (2d proviso) and 37:272(b) (2d proviso).

Clause (1) is inserted for clarity, since a member who had over 20 years of service would qualify under section 1201 or 1202 of this title.

Clause (4)(A) is substituted for 37:272(a) (1st 20 words of 2d proviso).

Clause (4)(B) is substituted for 37:272(b) (lst 20 words of 2d proviso).

Clause (4)(C) is substituted for 37:272(b) (last proviso).

The last sentence of the revised section, relating to transfer to the inactive status list, is inserted for clarity because of section 1209 of this title.

1958 Act
Revised sectionSource (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)
1203 [No source]. [No source].

The amendment reflects the Act of April 23, 1956, ch. 209 (70 Stat 115). (See opinion of Comp. Gen., B–130269, March 18, 1957.)

1962 Act

The changes correct typographical errors.


Editorial Notes

Amendments

2011—Subsec. (b)(4)(B). Pub. L. 111–383, §1075(e)(12), made technical amendment to directory language of Pub. L. 110–417, §727(b)(2). See 2008 Amendment note below.

Pub. L. 111–383, §1075(b)(19), substituted "determination," for "determination,,".

2008—Subsec. (b)(4)(B). Pub. L. 110–417, §727(b)(2), as amended by Pub. L. 111–383, §1075(e)(12), substituted "(unless clear and unmistakable evidence demonstrates that the disability existed before the member's entrance on active duty and was not aggravated by active military service)" for "(unless evidence or medical judgment is such to warrant a finding that the disability existed before the member's entrance on active duty)".

Pub. L. 110–417, §727(b)(1), struck out "the member has six months or more of active military service, and" before "the disability was not noted".

Pub. L. 110–181 substituted ", the member has six months or more of active military service, and the disability was not noted at the time of the member's entrance on active duty (unless evidence or medical judgment is such to warrant a finding that the disability existed before the member's entrance on active duty)" for "and the member has at least eight years of service computed under section 1208 of this title".

1996Pub. L. 104–201 added subsec. (a), designated existing provisions as subsec. (b), and substituted introductory provisions of subsec. (b) for "Upon a determination by the Secretary concerned that a member of a regular component of the armed forces entitled to basic pay, or any other member of the armed forces entitled to basic pay who has been called or ordered to active duty (other than for training under section 10148(a) of this title) for a period of more than 30 days, is unfit to perform the duties of his office, grade, rank, or rating because of physical disability incurred while entitled to basic pay, the member may be separated from his armed force, with severance pay computed under section 1212 of this title, if the Secretary also determines that—".

1994Pub. L. 103–337 substituted "10148(a)" for "270(b)" in introductory provisions.

1989—Par. (4)(A) to (C). Pub. L. 101–189 substituted "Department of Veterans Affairs" for "Veterans' Administration" wherever appearing.

1980—Par. (4)(A)(iii). Pub. L. 96–513 substituted "after September 14, 1978" for "during the period beginning on September 15, 1978, and ending on September 30, 1982, except that the condition provided for in this item shall not be effective during such period unless the President determines that such condition should be effective during such period and issues an Executive order to that effect".

Pub. L. 96–343, §10(c)(2), added cl. (iii).

Par. (4)(C). Pub. L. 96–513 substituted "after September 14, 1978" for "during the period beginning on September 15, 1978, and ending on September 30, 1982, except that the condition provided for in this item shall not be effective during such period unless the President determines that such condition should be effective during such period and issues an Executive order to that effect" in cl. (iii).

Pub. L. 96–343, §10(c)(3), substituted "(i) the proximate result of performing active duty, (ii) incurred in line of duty in time of war or national emergency, nor (iii) incurred in line of duty during the period beginning on September 15, 1978, and ending on September 30, 1982, except that the condition provided for in this item shall not be effective during such period unless the President determines that such condition should be effective during such period and issues an Executive order to that effect" for "the proximate result of performing active duty nor incurred in line of duty in time of war or national emergency".

1978—Par. (4)(A)(iii). Pub. L. 95–377, §3(2), added cl. (iii) which provided additional conditions, effective on Presidential determination, that the disability was incurred in the line of duty during Sept. 15, 1978, through Sept. 30, 1979, and which terminated on Sept. 30, 1979. See Effective and Termination Dates of 1978 Amendment note set out under this section.

Par. (4)(C). Pub. L. 95–377, §3(3), designated existing conditions of performing active duty and incurred in line of duty in time of war or national emergency as cls. (i) and (ii) and added cl. (iii) providing additional condition, effective on Presidential determination, that the disability was incurred in line of duty during Sept. 15, 1978, through Sept. 30, 1979, and terminated on Sept. 30, 1979. See Effective and Termination Dates of 1978 Amendment note set out under this section.

1962Pub. L. 87–651 substituted "training under section 270(b) of this title)" for "training) under section 270(b) of this title."

1958Pub. L. 85–861 inserted "under section 270(b) of this title" after "(other than for training)".


Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2011 Amendment

Pub. L. 111–383, div. A, title X, §1075(e)(12), Jan. 7, 2011, 124 Stat. 4375, provided that the amendment by section 1075(e)(12) is effective as of Oct. 14, 2008, and as if included in Pub. L. 110–417 as enacted.

Effective Date of 1996 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 104–201 effective Sept. 23, 1996, and applicable with respect to physical disabilities incurred on or after such date, see section 572(d) of Pub. L. 104–201, set out as a note under section 1201 of this title.

Effective Date of 1994 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 103–337 effective Dec. 1, 1994, except as otherwise provided, see section 1691 of Pub. L. 103–337, set out as an Effective Date note under section 10001 of this title.

Effective Date of 1980 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 96–513 effective Sept. 15, 1981, but the authority to prescribe regulations under the amendment by Pub. L. 96–513 effective on Dec. 12, 1980, see section 701 of Pub. L. 96–513, set out as a note under section 101 of this title.

Effective and Termination Dates of 1978 Amendment

Pub. L. 95–377, §3, Sept. 19, 1978, 92 Stat. 719, provided that the amendment made by that section is effective only for the period beginning Sept. 15, 1978, and ending Sept. 30, 1979.


Executive Documents

Suspension of Certain Promotion and Disability Separation Limitations

For provisions relating to the suspension of certain promotion and disability separation limitations, see Ex. Ord. No. 12239, Sept. 21, 1980, 45 F.R. 62967, set out as a note under section 1201 of this title.

§1204. Members on active duty for 30 days or less or on inactive-duty training: retirement

Upon a determination by the Secretary concerned that a member of the armed forces not covered by section 1201, 1202, or 1203 of this title is unfit to perform the duties of his office, grade, rank, or rating because of physical disability, the Secretary may retire the member with retired pay computed under section 1401 of this title, if the Secretary also determines that—

(1) based upon accepted medical principles, the disability is of a permanent nature and stable;

(2) the disability—

(A) was incurred before September 24, 1996, as the proximate result of—

(i) performing active duty or inactive-duty training;

(ii) traveling directly to or from the place at which such duty is performed; or

(iii) an injury, illness, or disease incurred or aggravated while remaining overnight, immediately before the commencement of inactive-duty training, or while remaining overnight between successive periods of inactive-duty training, at or in the vicinity of the site of the inactive-duty training, if the site of the inactive-duty training is outside reasonable commuting distance of the member's residence;


(B) is a result of an injury, illness, or disease incurred or aggravated in line of duty after September 23, 1996—

(i) while performing active duty or inactive-duty training;

(ii) while traveling directly to or from the place at which such duty is performed; or

(iii) while remaining overnight, immediately before the commencement of inactive-duty training, or while remaining overnight between successive periods of inactive-duty training, at or in the vicinity of the site of the inactive-duty training; or


(C) is a result of an injury, illness, or disease incurred or aggravated in line of duty—

(i) while the member was serving on funeral honors duty under section 12503 of this title or section 115 of title 32;

(ii) while the member was traveling to or from the place at which the member was to so serve; or

(iii) while the member remained overnight at or in the vicinity of that place immediately before so serving, if the place is outside reasonable commuting distance from the member's residence;


(3) the disability is not the result of the member's intentional misconduct or willful neglect, and was not incurred during a period of unauthorized absence; and

(4) either—

(A) the member has at least 20 years of service computed under section 1208 of this title; or

(B) the disability is at least 30 percent under the standard schedule of rating disabilities in use by the Department of Veterans Affairs at the time of the determination.

(Aug. 10, 1956, ch. 1041, 70A Stat. 93; Pub. L. 99–145, title V, §513(a)(1)(A), Nov. 8, 1985, 99 Stat. 627; Pub. L. 99–661, div. A, title VI, §604(d)(1), (2)(A), Nov. 14, 1986, 100 Stat. 3876; Pub. L. 101–189, div. A, title XVI, §1621(a)(1), Nov. 29, 1989, 103 Stat. 1602; Pub. L. 102–484, div. A, title V, §516(a), Oct. 23, 1992, 106 Stat. 2407; Pub. L. 104–201, div. A, title V, §534, Sept. 23, 1996, 110 Stat. 2521; Pub. L. 105–85, div. A, title V, §513(c)(1), (d)(1), Nov. 18, 1997, 111 Stat. 1730, 1731; Pub. L. 106–65, div. A, title V, §578(i)(3), Oct. 5, 1999, 113 Stat. 629; Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title V, §513(b), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1093.)

Historical and Revision Notes
Revised sectionSource (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)
1204 37:271(a).

37:272(c) (less clause (5), and less last proviso).

37:272(f) (as applicable to 37:272(c)).

Oct. 12, 1949, ch. 681, §§401(a), 402(c) (less clause (5), and less last proviso), 402(f) (as applicable to §402(c)), 63 Stat. 816, 817, 820.

37:271(a) is omitted as surplusage. As it relates to retirement it is only a statement of the general coverage of the retirement sections of this chapter. As it relates to separation it is only a statement of the general coverage of the separation sections of this chapter. The words "a member * * * not covered by section 1201, 1202, or 1203 of this title" are substituted for the words "a member * * * other than those members covered in subsections (a) and (b) of this section". The words "if the Secretary also determines that" are substituted for the words "That if condition (5) above is met by a finding that", in 37:272(c). The words "of such member", "upon retirement", and "to receive", in 37:272(c), are omitted as surplusage.

In clause (1), the words "based upon accepted medical principles" are inserted as a necessary implication of the rule stated in 37:272(c)(5).

In clause (2), the word "disability" is substituted for the word "injury" to make clear, in view of 37:278, that members on active duty for 30 days or less are on the same footing as those on active duty for a longer period, with respect to the effect of misconduct or neglect.

In clause (3), the words "and was not incurred during a period of unauthorized absence" are inserted to conform to other revised sections of this chapter and because of section 1207 of this title. The words "full-time training duty, other full-time duty" are omitted as covered by the words "active duty".

Clause (4)(A) is substituted for 37:272(f) (as applicable to 37:272(c)). 37:272(f) (proviso) is omitted as surplusage.

In clause (4)(B), the words "at the time of the determination" are substituted for the word "current", in 37:272(c).


Editorial Notes

Amendments

2001—Par. (2)(B)(iii). Pub. L. 107–107, struck out ", if the site of the inactive-duty training is outside reasonable commuting distance of the member's residence" before semicolon.

1999—Par. (2)(C). Pub. L. 106–65 added subpar. (C).

1997Pub. L. 105–85, §513(d)(1), amended section catchline generally, inserting "or on inactive-duty training" after "30 days or less".

Par. (2). Pub. L. 105–85, §513(c)(1), amended par. (2) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (2) read as follows: "the disability is the proximate result of, or was incurred in line of duty after the date of the enactment of this Act as a result of—

"(A) performing active duty or inactive-duty training;

"(B) traveling directly to or from the place at which such duty is performed; or

"(C) an injury, illness, or disease incurred or aggravated while remaining overnight, between successive periods of inactive-duty training, at or in the vicinity of the site of the inactive duty training, if the site is outside reasonable commuting distance of the member's residence;".

1996—Par. (2). Pub. L. 104–201 amended par. (2) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (2) read as follows: "the disability is the proximate result of performing active duty or inactive-duty training or of traveling directly to or from the place at which such duty is performed;".

1992—Par. (2). Pub. L. 102–484 inserted before semicolon at end "or of traveling directly to or from the place at which such duty is performed".

1989—Par. (4)(B). Pub. L. 101–189 substituted "Department of Veterans Affairs" for "Veterans' Administration".

1986Pub. L. 99–661 struck out "; disability from injury" after "30 days or less" in section catchline and "resulting from an injury" after "because of physical disability" in provisions preceding par. (1).

1985—Par. (1). Pub. L. 99–145 inserted "and stable" after "permanent nature".


Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1992 Amendment

Pub. L. 102–484, div. A, title V, §516(b), Oct. 23, 1992, 106 Stat. 2407, provided that: "The amendments made by subsection (a) [amending this section and section 1206 of this title] shall take effect with respect to disabilities incurred on or after November 14, 1986, but any benefits or services payable by reason of the applicability of those amendments during the period beginning on November 14, 1986, and ending on the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 23, 1992] shall be subject to the availability of appropriations."

Effective Date of 1986 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 99–661 applicable with respect to persons who, after Nov. 14, 1986, incur or aggravate an injury, illness, or disease or die, see section 604(g) of Pub. L. 99–661, set out as a note under section 1074a of this title.

§1205. Members on active duty for 30 days or less: temporary disability retired list

Upon a determination by the Secretary concerned that a member of the armed forces not covered by section 1201, 1202, or 1203 of this title would be qualified for retirement under section 1204 of this title but for the fact that his disability is not determined to be of a permanent nature and stable, the Secretary shall, if he also determines that accepted medical principles indicate that the disability may be of a permanent nature, place the member's name on the temporary disability retired list, with retired pay computed under section 1401 of this title.

(Aug. 10, 1956, ch. 1041, 70A Stat. 94; Pub. L. 99–145, title V, §513(a)(1)(B), Nov. 8, 1985, 99 Stat. 627; Pub. L. 99–661, div. A, title VI, §604(d)(2)[(B)], Nov. 14, 1986, 100 Stat. 3876.)

Historical and Revision Notes
Revised sectionSource (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)
1205 37:272(c) (clause (5)). Oct. 12, 1949, ch. 681, §402(c) (clause (5)), 63 Stat. 818.

The first 52 words are inserted for clarity and are based on the rule stated in section 1204 of this title, which restates that part of 37:272(c) relating to retirement for physical disability. The revised section incorporates by reference those provisions which are identical for retirement and for placement on the temporary disability retired list. This is possible, since 37:272(f) applies to placement on the temporary disability retired list as well as to retirement (see opinion of the Judge Advocate General of the Army (JAGA 1953/1900, 9 Mar. 1953)).


Editorial Notes

Amendments

1986Pub. L. 99–661 struck out "; disability from injury" after "30 days or less" in section catchline.

1985Pub. L. 99–145 inserted "and stable" after "determined to be of a permanent nature".


Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1986 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 99–661 applicable with respect to persons who, after Nov. 14, 1986, incur or aggravate an injury, illness, or disease or die, see section 604(g) of Pub. L. 99–661, set out as a note under section 1074a of this title.

§1206. Members on active duty for 30 days or less or on inactive-duty training: separation

Upon a determination by the Secretary concerned that a member of the armed forces not covered by section 1201, 1202, or 1203 of this title is unfit to perform the duties of his office, grade, rank, or rating because of physical disability, the member may be separated from his armed force, with severance pay computed under section 1212 of this title, if the Secretary also determines that—

(1) the member has less than 20 years of service computed under section 1208 of this title;

(2) the disability is a result of an injury, illness, or disease incurred or aggravated in line of duty—

(A) while—

(i) performing active duty or inactive-duty training;

(ii) traveling directly to or from the place at which such duty is performed; or

(iii) remaining overnight immediately before the commencement of inactive-duty training, or while remaining overnight between successive periods of inactive-duty training, at or in the vicinity of the site of the inactive-duty training, if the site is outside reasonable commuting distance of the member's residence; or


(B) while the member—

(i) was serving on funeral honors duty under section 12503 of this title or section 115 of title 32;

(ii) was traveling to or from the place at which the member was to so serve; or

(iii) remained overnight at or in the vicinity of that place immediately before so serving;


(3) the disability is not the result of the member's intentional misconduct or willful neglect, and was not incurred during a period of unauthorized absence;

(4) based upon accepted medical principles, the disability is or may be of a permanent nature; and

(5) the disability is less than 30 percent under the standard schedule of rating disabilities in use by the Department of Veterans Affairs at the time of the determination, and, in the case of a disability incurred before October 5, 1999, was the proximate result of performing active duty or inactive-duty training or of traveling directly to or from the place at which such duty is performed.


However, if the member is eligible for transfer to the inactive status list under section 1209 of this title, and so elects, he shall be transferred to that list instead of being separated.

(Aug. 10, 1956, ch. 1041, 70A Stat. 94; Pub. L. 99–661, div. A, title VI, §604(d)(1), (3), Nov. 14, 1986, 100 Stat. 3876; Pub. L. 101–189, div. A, title XVI, §1621(a)(1), Nov. 29, 1989, 103 Stat. 1602; Pub. L. 102–484, div. A, title V, §516(a), Oct. 23, 1992, 106 Stat. 2407; Pub. L. 105–85, div. A, title V, §513(c)(2), (d)(2), Nov. 18, 1997, 111 Stat. 1731; Pub. L. 106–65, div. A, title V, §578(i)(4), title VI, §653(c), Oct. 5, 1999, 113 Stat. 629, 667; Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title V, §513(b), title X, §1048(c)(6), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1093, 1226.)

Historical and Revision Notes
Revised sectionSource (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)
1206 37:272(c) (last proviso). Oct. 12, 1949, ch. 681, §402(c) (last proviso), 63 Stat. 818.

To state fully in the revised section the rule contained in 37:272(c) (last proviso), the provisions of 37:272(c) (less clause (5), and less 1st proviso), and 272(f) (as applicable to 272(c)), also contained in section 1204 of this title, are repeated. The words "the member may be separated" are substituted for the words "the member concerned shall not be eligible for any disability retirement provided in this section, but may be separated for physical disability".

Clause (1) is inserted for clarity, since a member who had over 20 years of service would qualify under section 1204 or 1205 of this title.

The last sentence of the revised section, relating to transfer to the inactive status list, is inserted for clarity because of section 1209 of this title.


Editorial Notes

Amendments

2001—Par. (2)(B)(iii). Pub. L. 107–107, §513(b), struck out ", if the place is outside reasonable commuting distance from the member's residence" before semicolon at end.

Par. (5). Pub. L. 107–107, §1048(c)(6), substituted "October 5, 1999," for "the date of the enactment of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000,".

1999—Par. (2). Pub. L. 106–65, §578(i)(4), amended par. (2) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (2) read as follows: "the disability is a result of an injury, illness, or disease incurred or aggravated in line of duty while—

"(A) performing active duty or inactive-duty training;

"(B) traveling directly to or from the place at which such duty is performed; or

"(C) while remaining overnight immediately before the commencement of inactive-duty training, or while remaining overnight between successive periods of inactive-duty training, at or in the vicinity of the site of the inactive-duty training, if the site is outside reasonable commuting distance of the member's residence;".

Par. (5). Pub. L. 106–65, §653(c), inserted ", in the case of a disability incurred before the date of the enactment of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000," after "determination, and".

1997Pub. L. 105–85, §513(d)(2), amended section catchline generally, inserting "or on inactive-duty training" after "30 days or less".

Pars. (2) to (5). Pub. L. 105–85, §513(c)(2), added par. (2) and redesignated former pars. (2) to (4) as (3) to (5), respectively.

1992—Par. (4). Pub. L. 102–484 inserted before period at end "or of traveling directly to or from the place at which such duty is performed".

1989—Par. (4). Pub. L. 101–189 substituted "Department of Veterans Affairs" for "Veterans' Administration".

1986Pub. L. 99–661 struck out "; disability from injury" after "30 days or less" in section catchline and "resulting from an injury" after "because of physical disability" in provisions preceding par. (1).


Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1992 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 102–484 effective with respect to disabilities incurred on or after Nov. 14, 1986, with any benefits or services payable by reason of applicability of that amendment during period beginning Nov. 14, 1986, and ending Oct. 23, 1992, subject to availability of appropriations, see section 516(b) of Pub. L. 102–484, set out as a note under section 1204 of this title.

Effective Date of 1986 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 99–661 applicable with respect to persons who, after Nov. 14, 1986, incur or aggravate an injury, illness, or disease or die, see section 604(g) of Pub. L. 99–661, set out as a note under section 1074a of this title.

§1206a. Reserve component members unable to perform duties when ordered to active duty: disability system processing

(a) Members Released From Active Duty Within 30 Days.—A member of a reserve component who is ordered to active duty for a period of more than 30 days and is released from active duty within 30 days of commencing such period of active duty for a reason stated in subsection (b) shall be considered for all purposes under this chapter to have been serving under an order to active duty for a period of 30 days or less.

(b) Applicable Reasons for Release.—Subsection (a) applies in the case of a member released from active duty because of a failure to meet—

(1) physical standards for retention due to a preexisting condition not aggravated during the period of active duty; or

(2) medical or dental standards for deployment due to a preexisting condition not aggravated during the period of active duty.


(c) Savings Provision for Medical Care Provided While on Active Duty.—Notwithstanding subsection (a), any benefit under chapter 55 of this title received by a member described in subsection (a) or a dependent of such member before or during the period of active duty shall not be subject to recoupment or otherwise affected.

(Added Pub. L. 108–375, div. A, title V, §521(a), Oct. 28, 2004, 118 Stat. 1887.)

§1207. Disability from intentional misconduct or willful neglect: separation

Each member of the armed forces who incurs a physical disability that, in the determination of the Secretary concerned, makes him unfit to perform the duties of his office, grade, rank, or rating, and that resulted from his intentional misconduct or willful neglect or was incurred during a period of unauthorized absence, shall be separated from his armed force without entitlement to any benefits under this chapter.

(Aug. 10, 1956, ch. 1041, 70A Stat. 94.)

Historical and Revision Notes
Revised sectionSource (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)
1207 37:278. Oct. 12, 1949, ch. 681, §408, 63 Stat. 823.

The words "Each member * * * who" are substituted for the words "When a member * * * such member". The words "is determined to have" are omitted as surplusage.

§1207a. Members with over eight years of active service: eligibility for disability retirement for pre-existing conditions

(a) In the case of a member described in subsection (b) who would be covered by section 1201, 1202, or 1203 of this title but for the fact that the member's disability is determined to have been incurred before the member became entitled to basic pay in the member's current period of active duty, the disability shall be deemed to have been incurred while the member was entitled to basic pay and shall be so considered for purposes of determining whether the disability was incurred in the line of duty.

(b) A member described in subsection (a) is a member with at least eight years of active service.

(Added Pub. L. 106–65, div. A, title VI, §653(a)(1), Oct. 5, 1999, 113 Stat. 666.)

§1208. Computation of service

(a) For the purposes of this chapter, a member of a regular component shall be credited with the service described in paragraph (1) or that described in paragraph (2), whichever is greater:

(1) The service that he is considered to have for the purpose of separation, discharge, or retirement for length of service.

(2) The sum of—

(A) his active service as a member of the armed forces, a nurse, a reserve nurse, a contract surgeon, a contract dental surgeon, or an acting dental surgeon;

(B) his active service as a member of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration or the Public Health Service; and

(C) his service while participating in exercises or performing duties under sections 502, 503, 504, and 505 of title 32.


For the purpose of paragraph (2), active service as a member of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration includes active service as a member of the Environmental Science Services Administration and of the Coast and Geodetic Survey.

(b) A member of the armed forces who is not a member of a regular component shall be credited, for the purposes of this chapter, with the number of years of service that he would count if he were computing his years of service under section 12733 of this title.

(Aug. 10, 1956, ch. 1041, 70A Stat. 94; Pub. L. 89–718, §8, Nov. 2, 1966, 80 Stat. 1117; Pub. L. 96–513, title V, §§501(16), 511(42), Dec. 12, 1980, 94 Stat. 2908, 2923; Pub. L. 99–661, div. A, title XIII, §1343(a)(6), Nov. 14, 1986, 100 Stat. 3992; Pub. L. 100–26, §7(j)(3), Apr. 21, 1987, 101 Stat. 283; Pub. L. 104–106, div. A, title XV, §1501(c)(13), Feb. 10, 1996, 110 Stat. 499.)

Historical and Revision Notes
Revised sectionSource (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)
1208(a) 37:282 (less clauses (2) and (3), less applicability to persons referred to in 37:281, and less applicability to service as a cadet before August 24, 1912, as a midshipman before March 4, 1913, as an Army field clerk, or as a field clerk, Army Quartermaster Corps). Oct. 12, 1949, ch. 681, §412 (less clause (3), less applicability to persons referred to in §411, and less applicability to service as a cadet before August 24, 1912, as a midshipman before March 4, 1913, as an Army field clerk, or as a field clerk, Army Quartermaster Corps), 63 Stat. 824.
1208(b) 37:282 (clause (2), less applicability to persons referred to in 37:281, and less applicability to service as a cadet before August 24, 1912, as a midshipman before March 4, 1913, as an Army field clerk, or as a field clerk, Army Quartermaster Corps).

In subsection (a), the words "shall be credited with the service described in clause (1) or that described in clause (2), whichever is greater" are substituted for the words "shall be interpreted to mean".

In subsection (a)(1), the words "he is considered to have" are substituted for the words "such member, former member, or person has or is deemed to have pursuant to law".

In subsection (a)(2)(A), the words "his active service" are substituted for the words "while on the active list or on active duty or while participating in full-time training or other full-time duty provided for or authorized in the National Defense Act, as amended, the Naval Reserve Act of 1938, as amended, or in—other provisions of law" because of the definitions of "active service" and "active duty" in sections 101(24) and 101(22) of this title.

In subsection (a)(2)(C), the references to 10:22–23, 24–26, and 30–36 are omitted as repealed by section 401 of the Army Organization Act of 1950, 64 Stat. 271. The reference to 32:70 is omitted as repealed by section 16 of the act of June 15, 1933, ch. 87, 48 Stat. 159. The reference to 10:23a is omitted as executed. The references to 10:38 and 32:66 and 172–175 are omitted as covered by the words "active service". The references to 32:144–147, 171, and 176 are omitted, since they deal with pay and do not authorize duty or training. The reference to section 502 of title 32, not contained in 37:282, is inserted, since section 92 of the National Defense Act, as amended (32:62) is referred to in section 412 of the Career Compensation Act of 1949 (37:282).

In subsection (b), the words "any other member" are substituted for the words "members of the reserve components", since the words "reserve components" are defined by section 102(k) of the Career Compensation Act of 1949, 63 Stat. 805 (37 U.S.C. 231(k)) to include members appointed, enlisted, or inducted without component.


Editorial Notes

Amendments

1996—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 104–106 substituted "section 12733" for "section 1333".

1987—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 100–26 substituted "paragraph (1)" and "paragraph (2)" for "clause (1)" and "clause (2)", respectively, in introductory provisions, and "paragraph (2)" for "clause 2(B) of this subsection" in second sentence.

1986—Subsec. (a)(2)(A). Pub. L. 99–661 struck out "after February 2, 1901" after "a reserve nurse".

1980—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 96–513 substituted "separation, discharge, or retirement for length of service" for "separation or mandatory elimination from the active list" in par. (1), substituted "National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration" for "Environmental Science Services Administration" in par. (2)(B), and, in provisions following par. (2)(C), substituted "as a member of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration includes active service as a member of the Environmental Science Services Administration and" for "as a member of the Environmental Science Services Administration includes service as a member".

1966—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 89–718 substituted "Environmental Science Services Administration" for "Coast and Geodetic Survey" in clause (2)(B) and inserted provision that, for purposes of clause (2)(B) of subsec. (a), active service as a member of the Environmental Science Services Administration includes active service as a member of the Coast and Geodetic Survey.


Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1996 Amendment

Pub. L. 104–106, div. A, title XV, §1501(c), Feb. 10, 1996, 110 Stat. 498, provided that the amendment made by that section is effective as of Dec. 1, 1994, and as if included as an amendment made by the Reserve Officer Personnel Management Act, title XVI of Pub. L. 103–337, as originally enacted.

Effective Date of 1980 Amendment

Amendment by section 501(16) of Pub. L. 96–513 effective Sept. 15, 1981, and amendment by section 511(42) of Pub. L. 96–513 effective Dec. 12, 1980, see section 701 of Pub. L. 96–513, set out as a note under section 101 of this title.

Repeals

The directory language of, but not the amendment made by, Pub. L. 89–718, §8(a), Nov. 2, 1966, 80 Stat. 1117, cited as a credit to this section, was repealed by Pub. L. 97–295, §6(b), Oct. 12, 1982, 96 Stat. 1314.

Additional Service Creditable to Certain Regulars

Act Aug. 10, 1956, ch. 1041, §39, 70A Stat. 635, provided that: "In addition to service with which he may be credited under section 1208(a)(2) of title 10, United States Code [subsec. (a)(2) of this section], a member of a regular component of the armed forces shall be credited, for the purposes of chapter 61 of title 10, United States Code [this chapter], with all service as—

"(1) a cadet at the United States Military Academy, if appointed before August 24, 1912;

"(2) a midshipman at the United States Naval Academy, if appointed before March 4, 1913;

"(3) an Army field clerk; and

"(4) a field clerk, Army Quartermaster Corps."

Officers of the Public Health Service

Applicability of subsec. (a)(2) of this section to officers of the Reserve Corps and to officers of the Regular Corps of the Public Health Service, see section 212 of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare.


Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions

For transfer of functions of Public Health Service, see note set out under section 802 of this title.

§1209. Transfer to inactive status list instead of separation

Any member of the armed forces who has at least 20 years of service computed under section 12732 of this title, and who would be qualified for retirement under this chapter but for the fact that his disability is less than 30 percent under the standard schedule of rating disabilities in use by the Department of Veterans Affairs at the time of the determination, may elect, instead of being separated under this chapter, to be transferred to the inactive status list under section 12735 of this title and, if otherwise eligible, to receive retired pay under section 12739 of this title upon becoming 60 years of age.

(Aug. 10, 1956, ch. 1041, 70A Stat. 95; Pub. L. 101–189, div. A, title XVI, §1621(a)(1), Nov. 29, 1989, 103 Stat. 1602; Pub. L. 104–106, div. A, title XV, §1501(c)(14), Feb. 10, 1996, 110 Stat. 499.)

Historical and Revision Notes
Revised sectionSource (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)
1209 37:272(g). Oct. 12, 1949, ch. 681, §402(g), 63 Stat. 820.

The words "Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this section", "satisfactory Federal", and "and receiving disability severance pay" are omitted as surplusage. The words "at the time of the determination" are substituted for the word "current". The word "otherwise" is substituted for the words "in all other respects".


Editorial Notes

Amendments

1996Pub. L. 104–106 substituted "section 12732" for "section 1332", "section 12735" for "section 1335", and "section 12739" for "chapter 71".

1989Pub. L. 101–189 substituted "Department of Veterans Affairs" for "Veterans' Administration".


Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1996 Amendment

Pub. L. 104–106, div. A, title XV, §1501(c), Feb. 10, 1996, 110 Stat. 498, provided that the amendment made by that section is effective as of Dec. 1, 1994, and as if included as an amendment made by the Reserve Officer Personnel Management Act, title XVI of Pub. L. 103–337, as originally enacted.

§1210. Members on temporary disability retired list: periodic physical examination; final determination of status

(a) A physical examination shall be given at least once every 18 months to each member of the armed forces whose name is on the temporary disability retired list to determine whether there has been a change in the disability for which he was temporarily retired. He may be required to submit to those examinations while his name is carried on that list. If a member fails to report for an examination under this subsection, after receipt of proper notification, his disability retired pay may be terminated. However, payments to him shall be resumed if there was just cause for his failure to report. If payments are so resumed, they may be made retroactive for not more than one year.

(b) The Secretary concerned shall make a final determination of the case of each member whose name is on the temporary disability retired list upon the expiration of three years after the date when the member's name was placed on that list. If, at the time of that determination, the physical disability for which the member's name was carried on the temporary disability retired list still exists, it shall be considered to be of a permanent nature and stable.

(c) If, as a result of a periodic examination under subsection (a), or upon a final determination under subsection (b), it is determined that the member's physical disability is of a permanent nature and stable and is at least 30 percent under the standard schedule of rating disabilities in use by the Department of Veterans Affairs at the time of the determination, his name shall be removed from the temporary disability retired list and he shall be retired under section 1201 or 1204 of this title, whichever applies.

(d) If, as a result of a periodic examination under subsection (a), or upon a final determination under subsection (b), it is determined that the member's physical disability is of a permanent nature and stable and is less than 30 percent under the standard schedule of rating disabilities in use by the Department of Veterans Affairs at the time of the determination, and if he has at least 20 years of service computed under section 1208 of this title, his name shall be removed from the temporary disability retired list and he shall be retired under section 1201 or 1204 of this title, whichever applies, with retired pay computed under section 1401 of this title.

(e) If, as a result of a periodic examination under subsection (a), or upon a final determination under subsection (b), it is determined that the member's physical disability is less than 30 percent under the standard schedule of rating disabilities in use by the Department of Veterans Affairs at the time of the determination, and if he has less than 20 years of service computed under section 1208 of this title, his name shall be removed from the temporary disability retired list and he may be separated under section 1203 or 1206 of this title, whichever applies.

(f)(1) If, as a result of a periodic examination under subsection (a), or upon a final determination under subsection (b), it is determined that the member is physically fit to perform the duties of his office, grade, rank, or rating, the Secretary shall—

(A) treat the member as provided in section 1211 of this title; or

(B) discharge the member, retire the member, or transfer the member to the Fleet Reserve, Fleet Marine Corps Reserve, or inactive Reserve under any other law if, under that law, the member—

(i) applies for and qualifies for that retirement or transfer; or

(ii) is required to be discharged, retired, or eliminated from an active status.


(2)(A) For the purpose of paragraph (1)(B), a member shall be considered qualified for retirement or transfer to the Fleet Reserve or Fleet Marine Corps Reserve or is required to be discharged, retired, or eliminated from an active status if, were the member reappointed or reenlisted under section 1211 of this title, the member would in all other respects be qualified for or would be required to be retired, transferred to the Fleet Reserve or Fleet Marine Corps Reserve, discharged, or eliminated from an active status under any other provision of law.

(B) The grade of a member retired, transferred, discharged, or eliminated from an active status pursuant to paragraph (1)(B) shall be determined under the provisions of law under which the member is retired, transferred, discharged, or eliminated. The member's retired, retainer, severance, readjustment, or separation pay shall be computed as if the member had been reappointed or reenlisted upon removal from the temporary disability retired list and before the retirement, transfer, discharge, or elimination. Notwithstanding section 8301 of title 5, a member who is retired shall be entitled to retired pay effective on the day after the last day on which the member is entitled to disability retired pay.

(g) Any member of the armed forces whose name is on the temporary disability retired list, and who is required to travel to submit to a physical examination under subsection (a), is entitled to the travel and transportation allowances authorized for members in his retired grade traveling in connection with temporary duty while on active duty.

(h) If his name is not sooner removed, the disability retired pay of a member whose name is on the temporary disability retired list terminates upon the expiration of three years after the date when his name was placed on that list.

(Aug. 10, 1956, ch. 1041, 70A Stat. 95; Pub. L. 99–145, title V, §513(a)(2), Nov. 8, 1985, 99 Stat. 627; Pub. L. 101–189, div. A, title XVI, §1621(a)(1), Nov. 29, 1989, 103 Stat. 1602; Pub. L. 114–328, div. A, title V, §525(a), Dec. 23, 2016, 130 Stat. 2117.)

Historical and Revision Notes
Revised sectionSource (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)
1210(a) 37:272(e) (less last sentence).

37:274(a).

37:274(b) (less 1st sentence).

Oct. 12, 1949, ch. 681, §§402(d) (30th through 55th words), (e) (less 1st proviso of last sentence), (f) (as applicable to §402(e)), 404, 63 Stat. 818–821.
1210(b) 37:272(e) (1st 37 words of last proviso of last sentence).
1210(c) 37:272(e) (last sentence, less provisos and less clause (2)).
  37:272(e) (38th through 45th words of last proviso of last sentence).
1210(d) 37:272(f) (as applicable to 37:272(e)).
1210(e) 37:272(e) (clause (2) of last sentence).
  37:272(e) (46th word of last proviso of last sentence).
1210(f) 37:272(e) (47th through 56th words of last proviso of last sentence).
1210(g) 37:274(b) (1st sentence).
1210(h) 37:272(d) (30th through 55th words).

In subsection (a), the second sentence is substituted for 37:274(a). The word "resumed" is substituted for the words "reinstated at a later date", in 37:274(b).

In subsection (b), the last sentence is inserted for clarity to conform to an opinion of the Judge Advocate General of the Army (JAGA 1953/8438, 30 Dec. 1953) and an opinion of the Judge Advocate General of the Navy (JAG: III: 7: WBM: bg. 7 Jan. 1954).

In subsection (c), the words "or upon a final determination under subsection (b)" are substituted for the words "or upon the determination of a period of five years from the date of temporary disability retirement", in 37:272(e). The words "at the time of the determination" are substituted for the word "current", in 37:272(e). The words "and he shall be entitled to receive disability retirement pay as prescribed in subsection (d) of this section" are omitted as covered by sections 1201 and 1204 of this title. Reference to specific sections on permanent retirement are substituted for the word "permanently", before the word "retired", in 37:272(e).

In subsection (d), 37:272(f) (proviso) is omitted as surplusage.

In subsection (e), the words "and if he has less than 20 years of service computed under section 1208 of this title" are inserted to distinguish the separation requirement under this section from retirement requirements under subsection (d). 37:272(e) (last 19 words of clause (2) of last sentence) is omitted as covered by sections 1203 and 1206 of this title. The words "at the time of determination" are substituted for the word "current".

In subsection (f), the first 39 words are inserted for clarity.

In subsection (g), the words "members in his retired grade traveling in connection with temporary duty" are substituted for the words "the rank, grade, or rating in which retired for temporary duty travel performed". The words "for travel performed" are omitted as surplusage.


Editorial Notes

Amendments

2016—Subsecs. (b), (h). Pub. L. 114–328 substituted "three years" for "five years".

1989—Subsecs. (c) to (e). Pub. L. 101–189 substituted "Department of Veterans Affairs" for "Veterans' Administration" wherever appearing.

1985—Subsecs. (b) to (d). Pub. L. 99–145, §513(a)(2)(A), inserted "and stable" after "permanent nature".

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 99–145, §513(a)(2)(B), designated existing provisions as par. (1), substituted "or rating, the Secretary shall—" for "and rating, the Secretary shall treat him as provided in section 1211 of this title", added subpars. (A) and (B), and added par. (2).


Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2016 Amendment

Pub. L. 114–328, div. A, title V, §525(b), Dec. 23, 2016, 130 Stat. 2117, provided that: "The amendments made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall take effect on January 1, 2017, and shall apply to members of the Armed Forces whose names are placed on the temporary disability retired list on or after that date."

§1211. Members on temporary disability retired list: return to active duty; promotion

(a) With his consent, any member of the Army, the Air Force, or the Space Force whose name is on the temporary disability retired list, and who is found to be physically fit to perform the duties of his office, grade, or rank under section 1210(f) of this title, shall—

(1) if a commissioned officer of a regular component, be recalled to active duty and, as soon as practicable, may be reappointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, to the active-duty list in the regular grade held by him when his name was placed on the temporary disability retired list, or in the next higher regular grade;

(2) if a warrant officer of a regular component, be recalled to active duty and, as soon as practicable, be reappointed by the Secretary concerned in the regular grade held by him when his name was placed on the temporary disability retired list, or in the next higher regular warrant grade;

(3) if an enlisted member of a regular component, be reenlisted in the regular grade held by him when his name was placed on the temporary disability retired list or in the next higher regular enlisted grade;

(4) if a commissioned, warrant, or enlisted Reserve, be reappointed or reenlisted as a Reserve for service in his reserve component in the reserve grade held by him when his name was placed on the temporary disability retired list, or appointed or enlisted in the next higher reserve commissioned, warrant, or enlisted grade, as the case may be;

(5) if a commissioned, warrant, or enlisted member of the Army National Guard of the United States or the Air National Guard of the United States when the disability was incurred, and if he cannot be reappointed or reenlisted as a Reserve for service therein, be appointed or enlisted as a Reserve for service in the Army Reserve or the Air Force Reserve, as the case may be, in a grade corresponding to the reserve grade held by him when his name was placed on the temporary disability retired list, or in the next higher reserve commissioned, warrant, or enlisted grade, as the case may be; and

(6) if a member of the Army, the Air Force, or the Space Force who has no regular or reserve grade, be reappointed or reenlisted in the Army, the Air Force, or the Space Force, as the case may be, in the temporary grade held by him when his name was placed on the temporary disability retired list, or appointed or enlisted in the next higher temporary grade.


(b) With his consent, any member of the naval service or of the Coast Guard whose name is on the temporary disability retired list, and who is found to be physically fit to perform the duties of his office, grade, rank, or rating under section 1210(f) of this title, shall—

(1) if he held an appointment in a commissioned grade in a regular component when his name was placed on the temporary disability retired list, be recalled to active duty and, as soon as practicable, may be reappointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, to his regular component in the grade permanently held by him when his name was placed on the temporary disability retired list, or in the next higher grade;

(2) if he held an appointment in the grade of warrant officer, W–1, in a regular component when his name was placed on the temporary disability retired list, be recalled to active duty and, as soon as practicable, be reappointed by the Secretary concerned in his regular component in the grade permanently held by him when his name was placed on the temporary disability retired list, or may be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, to the grade of chief warrant officer, W–2;

(3) if he held a permanent enlisted grade in a regular component when his name was placed on the temporary disability retired list, be reenlisted in his regular component in the grade permanently held by him when his name was placed on the temporary disability retired list, or in the next higher enlisted grade;

(4) if he was a member of the Fleet Reserve or the Fleet Marine Corps Reserve when his name was placed on the temporary disability retired list, resume his status in the Fleet Reserve or the Fleet Marine Corps Reserve in the grade held by him when his name was placed on the temporary disability retired list, or in the next higher enlisted grade; and

(5) if a member of a reserve component be reappointed or reenlisted in his reserve component in the grade permanently held by him when his name was placed on the temporary disability retired list or, if that permanent grade is not chief petty officer or master sergeant, in the next higher grade in that reserve component.


(c) If a member is appointed, reappointed, enlisted, or reenlisted, or resumes his status in the Fleet Reserve or the Fleet Marine Corps Reserve, under subsection (a) or (b), his status on the temporary disability retired list terminates on the date of his appointment, reappointment, enlistment, reenlistment, or resumption, as the case may be. However, if such a member does not consent to the action proposed under subsection (a) or (b), and if the member is not discharged, retired, or transferred to the Fleet Reserve or Fleet Marine Corps Reserve or inactive Reserve under section 1210 of this title, his status on the temporary disability retired list and his disability retired pay shall be terminated as soon as practicable and the member shall be discharged.

(d) Disability retired pay of a member covered by this section terminates—

(1) on the date when he is recalled to active duty under subsection (a)(1) or (2) or subsection (b)(1) or (2), for an officer of a regular component;

(2) on the date when he resumes his status in the Fleet Reserve or the Fleet Marine Corps Reserve under subsection (b)(4), for a member of the Fleet Reserve or the Fleet Marine Corps Reserve; and

(3) on the date when he is appointed, reappointed, enlisted, or reenlisted, for any other member of the armed forces.


(e) Whenever seniority in grade or years of service is a factor in determining the qualifications of a member of the armed forces for promotion, each member who has been appointed, reappointed, enlisted, or reenlisted, under subsection (a) or (b), shall, when his name is placed on a lineal list, a promotion list, an approved all-fully-qualified-officers list, or any similar list, have the seniority in grade and be credited with the years of service authorized by the Secretary concerned. The authorized strength in any regular grade is automatically increased to the minimum extent necessary to give effect to each appointment made in that grade under this section. An authorized strength so increased is increased for no other purpose, and while he holds that grade the officer whose appointment caused the increase is counted for the purpose of determining when other appointments, not under this section, may be made in that grade.

(f) Action under this section shall be taken on a fair and equitable basis, with regard being given to the probable opportunities for advancement and promotion that the member might reasonably have had if his name had not been placed on the temporary disability retired list.

(Aug. 10, 1956, ch. 1041, 70A Stat. 96; Pub. L. 87–651, title I, §107(b), Sept. 7, 1962, 76 Stat. 508; Pub. L. 96–513, title V, §501(17), Dec. 12, 1980, 94 Stat. 2908; Pub. L. 99–145, title V, §513(a)(3), Nov. 8, 1985, 99 Stat. 627; Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title V, §505(c)(4), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1088; Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title IX, §924(b)(24), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 3824.)

Historical and Revision Notes
1956 Act
Revised sectionSource (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)
1211(a) 37:275(a).

37:275(b).

37:275(c) (1st sentence).

Oct. 12, 1949, ch. 681, §§405, 406, 407, 63 Stat. 821.
  37:276(a) (less clauses (1)–(3)).
  37:276(a)(1) (1st 7 words).
  37:276(a)(2) (1st 10 words).
  37:276(a)(3) (1st 8 words).
  37:277(a).
1211(b) 37:275(a).
  37:275(b).
  37:275(c) (1st sentence).
  37:276(a) (less clauses (1)–(3)).
  37:276(a)(1) (1st 7 words).
  37:276(a)(2) (1st 10 words).
  37:276(a)(3) (1st 8 words).
  37:277(a).
1211(c) 37:276(a)(1) (less 1st 22 words).
  37:276(a)(2) (11th through 18th words).
  37:276(a)(3) (9th and 10th words).
  37:276(b).
1211(d) 37:276(a)(1) (8th through 22d words).
  37:276(a)(2) (less 1st 18 words).
  37:276(a)(3) (less 1st 10 words).
1211(e) 37:275(c) (2d sentence).
  37:277 (less (a)).
1211(f) 37:275(c) (last sentence).

In subsections (a) and (b), the words "under section 1210(f) of this title" are substituted for the words "If, as a result of a periodic physical examination", in 37:275(a) and (b), and 276(a), and the words "and who are subsequently found to be physically fit", in 37:277(a). The words "subject to the provisions of section 277 of this title", in 37:275(a), are omitted as surplusage.

In subsections (a)(2)–(6) and (b)(2)–(6), the appointment or enlistment is restricted to those already in an enlisted, warrant, or commissioned status, as the case may be, held by the member before placement of his name on the temporary disability retired list, since 37:277 (last sentence) indicates that appointment in the next higher grade for regular warrant officer is restricted to those warrant grades to which the President alone may appoint him. Similarly 37:275 (last 10 words) indicates that an enlisted member may only be reenlisted.

In subsection (a)(2) reference to the President, in 37:277(a), is omitted as inapplicable to the appointment of warrant officers of the Army and the Air Force.

Subsection (a)(5) is substituted for 37:275(b) (proviso) (as applicable to Army and Air Force).

Subsection (a)(6) is inserted, since the words "reserve component" are defined by section 102(k) of the source statute to include members of the Army and the Air Force who have no component status.

In subsection (b)(2), the words "by and with the advice and consent of the Senate" are added to make it clear that all appointments to the grade of commissioned warrant officer in the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard require Senate confirmation. Although these words do not appear in section 405 of the Career Compensation Act of 1949, there is no indication that an exception to the basic law relating to appointments in commissioned grades was intended.

Subsection (d)(3) is made applicable to members without component status, since the words "reserve component" are defined in section 102(k) of the source statute to include members of the Army and the Air Force who have no component status.

In subsection (e), the words "rank" and "rating" are omitted as surplusage.

1962 Act

The changes correct typographical errors.


Editorial Notes

Amendments

2021—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 116–283, §924(b)(24)(A), substituted ", the Air Force, or the Space Force" for "or the Air Force" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (a)(6). Pub. L. 116–283, §924(b)(24)(B), substituted "the Air Force, or the Space Force who" for "or the Air Force, who" and "the Air Force, or the Space Force, as" for "or the Air Force, as".

2001—Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 107–107 inserted "an approved all-fully-qualified-officers list," after "a promotion list,".

1985—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 99–145 inserted "and if the member is not discharged, retired, or transferred to the Fleet Reserve or Fleet Marine Corps Reserve or inactive Reserve under section 1210 of this title," after "proposed under subsection (a) or (b)," and inserted "and the member shall be discharged" after "as soon as practicable".

1980—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 96–513 substituted "active-duty list" for "active list of his regular component".

1962—Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 87–651 substituted "subsection (b)(1) or (2)" for "subsection (b)(1), (2), or (3)" in cl. (1), and "subsection (b)(4)" for "subsection (b)(5)" in cl. (2).


Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1980 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 96–513 effective Sept. 15, 1981, see section 701 of Pub. L. 96–513, set out as a note under section 101 of this title.

Transfer of Functions

For transfer of authorities, functions, personnel, and assets of the Coast Guard, including the authorities and functions of the Secretary of Transportation relating thereto, to the Department of Homeland Security, and for treatment of related references, see sections 468(b), 551(d), 552(d), and 557 of Title 6, Domestic Security, and the Department of Homeland Security Reorganization Plan of November 25, 2002, as modified, set out as a note under section 542 of Title 6.

§1212. Disability severance pay

(a) Upon separation from his armed force under section 1203 or 1206 of this title, a member is entitled to disability severance pay computed by multiplying (1) the member's years of service computed under section 1208 of this title (subject to the minimum and maximum years of service provided for in subsection (c)), by (2) the highest of the following amounts:

(A) Twice the amount of monthly basic pay to which he would be entitled if serving (i) on active duty on the date when he is separated and (ii) in the grade and rank in which he was serving on the date when his name was placed on the temporary disability retired list, or if his name was not carried on that list, on the date when he is separated.

(B) Twice the amount of monthly basic pay to which he would be entitled if serving (i) on active duty on the date when his name was placed on the temporary disability retired list or, if his name was not carried on that list, on the date when he is separated, and (ii) in any temporary grade or rank higher than that described in clause (A), in which he served satisfactorily as determined by the Secretary of the military department or the Secretary of Homeland Security, as the case may be, having jurisdiction over the armed force from which he is separated.

(C) Twice the amount of monthly basic pay to which he would be entitled if serving (i) on active duty on the date when his name was placed on the temporary disability retired list or, if his name was not carried on that list, on the date when he is separated, and (ii) in the permanent regular or reserve grade to which he would have been promoted had it not been for the physical disability for which he is separated and which was found to exist as a result of a physical examination.

(D) Twice the amount of monthly basic pay to which he would be entitled if serving (i) on active duty on the date when his name was placed on the temporary disability retired list or, if his name was not carried on that list, on the date when he is separated, and (ii) in the temporary grade or rank to which he would have been promoted had it not been for the physical disability for which he is separated and which was found to exist as a result of a physical examination, if his eligibility for promotion was required to be based on cumulative years of service or years in grade.


(b) For the purposes of subsection (a), a part of a year of active service that is six months or more is counted as a whole year, and a part of a year that is less than six months is disregarded.

(c)(1) The minimum years of service of a member for purposes of subsection (a)(1) shall be as follows:

(A) Six years in the case of a member separated from the armed forces for a disability incurred in line of duty in a combat zone (as designated by the Secretary of Defense for purposes of this subsection) or incurred during the performance of duty in combat-related operations as designated by the Secretary of Defense.

(B) Three years in the case of any other member.


(2) The maximum years of service of a member for purposes of subsection (a)(1) shall be 19 years.

(d)(1) The amount of disability severance pay received under this section shall be deducted from any compensation for the same disability to which the former member of the armed forces or his dependents become entitled under any law administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

(2) No deduction may be made under paragraph (1) in the case of disability severance pay received by a member for a disability incurred in line of duty in a combat zone or incurred during performance of duty in combat-related operations as designated by the Secretary of Defense.

(3) No deduction may be made under paragraph (1) from any death compensation to which a member's dependents become entitled after the member's death.

(Aug. 10, 1956, ch. 1041, 70A Stat. 98; Pub. L. 96–513, title V, §511(43), Dec. 12, 1980, 94 Stat. 2924; Pub. L. 101–189, div. A, title XVI, §1621(a)(1), Nov. 29, 1989, 103 Stat. 1602; Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title V, §593(a), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1126; Pub. L. 107–296, title XVII, §1704(b)(1), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2314; Pub. L. 110–181, div. A, title XVI, §1646(a), (b), Jan. 28, 2008, 122 Stat. 472.)

Historical and Revision Notes
Revised sectionSource (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)
1212(a) 37:273 (less 1st and last provisos). Oct. 12, 1949, ch. 681, §403, 63 Stat. 820.
1212(b) 37:273 (1st proviso).
1212(c) 37:273 (last proviso).

In subsection (a), the words "Upon separation" are inserted for clarity. The words "his years of service * * * computed under section 1208 of this title" are substituted for the words "a number of years equal to the number of years of active service to which such member is entitled under the provisions of section 282 of this title". The words "but not more than 12" are substituted for the words "but not to exceed a total of two years' basic pay", to simplify the necessary calculation. The substituted words produce the same result. The word "rating" is omitted as covered by the words "grade" and "rank".

In clause (2)(A)–(D), the words "Twice the amount of monthly" are substituted for the words "An amount equal to two months' ". The words "if his name was not carried on that list" are substituted for the words "whichever is earlier", since the member might be separated without ever being carried on the list. The word "rating" is omitted as surplusage.

In clause (2)(B), the words "the Secretary of the military department, or the Secretary of the Treasury, as the case may be, having jurisdiction over the armed force from which he is separated" are substituted for the words "the Secretary concerned" for clarity.

In clause (2)(C), the words "regular or reserve" are inserted, since they are the only "permanent" grades.

Clause (2)(D) is based on that part of the third proviso of 37:273 relating to promotions other than regular or reserve.

In subsection (b), the words "and a part of a year that is less than six months is disregarded" are inserted to reflect the legislative history of the rule (see Senate Hearings on H.R. 5007, 81st Cong., page 313). The words "for himself or his dependents" are omitted as surplusage.


Editorial Notes

Amendments

2008—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 110–181, §1646(a)(1), substituted "the member's years of service computed under section 1208 of this title (subject to the minimum and maximum years of service provided for in subsection (c))" for "his years of service, but not more than 12, computed under section 1208 of this title".

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 110–181, §1646(a)(3), added subsec. (c). Former subsec. (c) redesignated (d).

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 110–181, §1646(b), designated existing provisions as par. (1), struck out "However, no deduction may be made from any death compensation to which his dependents become entitled after his death." at end, and added pars. (2) and (3).

Pub. L. 110–181, §1646(a)(2), redesignated subsec. (c) as (d).

2002—Subsec. (a)(2)(B). Pub. L. 107–296 substituted "Secretary of Homeland Security" for "Secretary of Transportation".

2001—Subsec. (a)(2)(C), (D). Pub. L. 107–107 struck out "for promotion" after "physical examination".

1989—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 101–189 substituted "Department of Veterans Affairs" for "Veterans' Administration".

1980—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 96–513 substituted "Secretary of Transportation" for "Secretary of the Treasury".


Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2008 Amendment

Pub. L. 110–181, div. A, title XVI, §1646(d), formerly §1646(c), Jan. 28, 2008, 122 Stat. 472, renumbered §1646(d) by Pub. L. 110–389, title I, §103(a)(1), Oct. 10, 2008, 122 Stat. 4148, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section and section 1161 of Title 38, Veterans' Benefits] shall take effect on the date of the enactment of this Act [Jan. 28, 2008], and shall apply with respect to members of the Armed Forces separated from the Armed Forces under chapter 61 of title 10, United States Code, on or after that date."

[Amendment by Pub. L. 110–389, §103(a)(1), redesignating section 1646(c) as 1646(d) of Pub. L. 110–181, set out above, effective Jan. 28, 2008, as if included in the Wounded Warrior Act, title XVI of Pub. L. 110–181, to which such amendment relates, see section 103(b) of Pub. L. 110–389, set out as an Effective Date of 2008 Amendment note under section 1161 of Title 38, Veterans' Benefits.]

Effective Date of 2002 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 107–296 effective on the date of transfer of the Coast Guard to the Department of Homeland Security, see section 1704(g) of Pub. L. 107–296, set out as a note under section 101 of this title.

Effective Date of 2001 Amendment

Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title V, §593(b), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1126, provided that: "The amendments made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall apply with respect to members separated under section 1203 or 1206 of title 10, United States Code, on or after date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 28, 2001]."

Effective Date of 1980 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 96–513 effective Dec. 12, 1980, see section 701(b)(3) of Pub. L. 96–513, set out as a note under section 101 of this title.

Combat-Injured Veterans Tax Fairness

Pub. L. 114–292, Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1500, provided that:

"SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.

"This Act may be cited as the 'Combat-Injured Veterans Tax Fairness Act of 2016'.

"SEC. 2. FINDINGS.

"Congress makes the following findings:

"(1) Approximately 10,000 to 11,000 individuals are retired from service in the Armed Forces for medical reasons each year.

"(2) Some of such individuals are separated from service in the Armed Forces for combat-related injuries (as defined in section 104(b)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 [26 U.S.C. 104(b)(3)]).

"(3) Congress has recognized the tremendous personal sacrifice of veterans with combat-related injuries by, among other things, specifically excluding from taxable income severance pay received for combat-related injuries.

"(4) Since 1991, the Secretary of Defense has improperly withheld taxes from severance pay for wounded veterans, thus denying them their due compensation and a significant benefit intended by Congress.

"(5) Many veterans owed redress are beyond the statutory period to file an amended tax return because they were not or are not aware that taxes were improperly withheld.

"SEC. 3. RESTORATION OF AMOUNTS IMPROPERLY WITHHELD FOR TAX PURPOSES FROM SEVERANCE PAYMENTS TO VETERANS WITH COMBAT-RELATED INJURIES.

"(a) In General.—Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 16, 2016], the Secretary of Defense shall—

"(1) identify—

"(A) the severance payments—

"(i) that the Secretary paid after January 17, 1991;

"(ii) that the Secretary computed under section 1212 of title 10, United States Code;

"(iii) that were not considered gross income pursuant to section 104(a)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 [26 U.S.C. 104(a)(4)]; and

"(iv) from which the Secretary withheld amounts for tax purposes; and

"(B) the individuals to whom such severance payments were made; and

"(2) with respect to each person identified under paragraph (1)(B), provide—

"(A) notice of—

"(i) the amount of severance payments in paragraph (1)(A) which were improperly withheld for tax purposes; and

"(ii) such other information determined to be necessary by the Secretary of the Treasury to carry out the purposes of this section; and

"(B) instructions for filing amended tax returns to recover the amounts improperly withheld for tax purposes.

"(b) Extension of Limitation on Time for Credit or Refund.—

"(1) Period for filing claim.—If a claim for credit or refund under section 6511(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 [26 U.S.C. 6511(a)] relates to a specified overpayment, the 3-year period of limitation prescribed by such subsection shall not expire before the date which is 1 year after the date the information return described in subsection (a)(2) is provided. The allowable amount of credit or refund of a specified overpayment shall be determined without regard to the amount of tax paid within the period provided in section 6511(b)(2) [26 U.S.C. 6511(b)(2)].

"(2) Specified overpayment.—For purposes of paragraph (1), the term 'specified overpayment' means an overpayment attributable to a severance payment described in subsection (a)(1).

"SEC. 4. REQUIREMENT THAT SECRETARY OF DEFENSE ENSURE AMOUNTS ARE NOT WITHHELD FOR TAX PURPOSES FROM SEVERANCE PAYMENTS NOT CONSIDERED GROSS INCOME.

"The Secretary of Defense shall take such actions as may be necessary to ensure that amounts are not withheld for tax purposes from severance payments made by the Secretary to individuals when such payments are not considered gross income pursuant to section 104(a)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 [26 U.S.C. 104(a)(4)].

"SEC. 5. REPORT TO CONGRESS.

"(a) In General.—After completing the identification required by section 3(a) and not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 16, 2016], the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report on the actions taken by the Secretary to carry out this Act.

"(b) Contents.—The report submitted under subsection (a) shall include the following:

"(1) The number of individuals identified under section 3(a)(1)(B).

"(2) Of all the severance payments described in section 3(a)(1)(A), the aggregate amount that the Secretary withheld for tax purposes from such payments.

"(3) A description of the actions the Secretary plans to take to carry out section 4.

"(c) Appropriate Committees of Congress Defined.—In this section, the term 'appropriate committees of Congress' means—

"(1) the Committee on Armed Services, the Committee on Veterans' Affairs, and the Committee on Finance of the Senate; and

"(2) the Committee on Armed Services, the Committee on Veterans' Affairs, and the Committee on Ways and Means of the House of Representatives."

§1213. Effect of separation on benefits and claims

Unless a person who has received disability severance pay again becomes a member of an armed force, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or the Public Health Service, he is not entitled to any payment from the armed force from which he was separated for, or arising out of, his service before separation, under any law administered by one of those services or for it by another of those services. However, this section does not prohibit the payment of money to a person who has received disability severance pay, if the money was due him on the date of his separation or if a claim by him is allowed under any law.

(Aug. 10, 1956, ch. 1041, 70A Stat. 99; Pub. L. 89–718, §8(a), Nov. 2, 1966, 80 Stat. 1117; Pub. L. 96–513, title V, §511(44), Dec. 12, 1980, 94 Stat. 2924.)

Historical and Revision Notes
Revised sectionSource (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)
1213 37:280. Oct. 12, 1949, ch. 681, §410, 63 Stat. 823.

The words "a person who has received disability severance pay" are substituted for the words "Any former member who has been separated for physical disability from any of the uniformed services and paid disability severance pay". The words "any payment * * * for" are substituted for the words "for any monetary obligation provided under any provision * * * on account of". The words "this section does not prohibit" are substituted for the words "shall not operate to bar". The words "the payment of money to * * * if the money was due him" are substituted for the words "from receiving or the service concerned from paying any moneys due and payable". The words "valid", "processed", and "pursuant to any provisions of law" are omitted as surplusage.


Editorial Notes

Amendments

1980Pub. L. 96–513 substituted "National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration" for "Environmental Science Services Administration".

1966Pub. L. 89–718 substituted "Environmental Science Services Administration" for "Coast and Geodetic Survey".


Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1980 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 96–513 effective Dec. 12, 1980, see section 701(b)(3) of Pub. L. 96–513, set out as a note under section 101 of this title.

Repeals

The directory language of, but not the amendment made by, Pub. L. 89–718, §8(a), Nov. 2, 1966, 80 Stat. 1117, cited as a credit to this section, was repealed by Pub. L. 97–295, §6(b), Oct. 12, 1982, 96 Stat. 1314.


Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions

For transfer of functions of Public Health Service, see note set out under section 802 of this title.

§1214. Right to full and fair hearing

No member of the armed forces may be retired or separated for physical disability without a full and fair hearing if he demands it.

(Aug. 10, 1956, ch. 1041, 70A Stat. 100.)

Historical and Revision Notes
Revised sectionSource (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)
1214 37:283 (less 1st 17 words). Oct. 12, 1949, ch. 681, §413 (less 1st 17 words), 63 Stat. 825.

The words "including regulations" are omitted as covered by section 1216(a) of this title.

§1214a. Members determined fit for duty in Physical Evaluation Board: prohibition on involuntary administrative separation or denial of reenlistment due to unsuitability based on medical conditions considered in evaluation

(a) Disposition.—Except as provided in subsection (c), the Secretary of the military department concerned may not authorize the involuntary administrative separation of a member described in subsection (b), or deny reenlistment of the member, based on a determination that the member is unsuitable for deployment or worldwide assignment based on the same medical condition of the member considered by a Physical Evaluation Board during the evaluation of the member.

(b) Covered Members.—A member covered by subsection (a) is any member of the armed forces who has been determined by a Physical Evaluation Board pursuant to a physical evaluation by the board to be fit for duty.

(c) Reevaluation.—(1) The Secretary of the military department concerned may direct the Physical Evaluation Board to reevaluate any member described in subsection (b) if the Secretary has reason to believe that a medical condition of the member considered by the Physical Evaluation Board during the evaluation of the member described in that subsection renders the member unsuitable for continued military service based on the medical condition.

(2) A member determined pursuant to reevaluation under paragraph (1) to be unfit to perform the duties of the member's office, grade, rank, or rating may be retired or separated for physical disability under this chapter.

(3) The Secretary of Defense shall be the final approval authority for any case determined by the Secretary of a military department to warrant administrative separation or denial of reenlistment based on a determination that the member is unsuitable for continued service due to the same medical condition of the member considered by a Physical Evaluation Board that found the member fit for duty.

(Added Pub. L. 111–383, div. A, title V, §534(a)(1), Jan. 7, 2011, 124 Stat. 4216; amended Pub. L. 112–81, div. A, title V, §527(a)–(c)(1), Dec. 31, 2011, 125 Stat. 1401, 1402.)


Editorial Notes

Amendments

2011Pub. L. 112–81, §527(c)(1), substituted "Members determined fit for duty in Physical Evaluation Board: prohibition on involuntary administrative separation or denial of reenlistment due to unsuitability based on medical conditions considered in evaluation" for "Members determined fit for duty in Physical Evaluation Board evaluation: prohibition on involuntary administrative separation due to unsuitability based on medical conditions considered in evaluation" in section catchline.

Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 112–81, §527(a), inserted ", or deny reenlistment of the member," after "a member described in subsection (b)".

Subsec. (c)(3). Pub. L. 112–81, §527(b), inserted "or denial of reenlistment" after "to warrant administrative separation".


Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Pub. L. 111–383, div. A, title V, §534(b), Jan. 7, 2011, 124 Stat. 4217, provided that: "The amendments made by subsection (a) [enacting this section] shall take effect on the date of the enactment of this Act [Jan. 7, 2011], and shall apply with respect to members evaluated for fitness for duty by Physical Evaluation Boards on or after that date."

§1215. Members other than Regulars: applicability of laws

The laws and regulations that entitle any retired member of a regular component of the armed forces to pay, rights, benefits, or privileges extend the same pay, rights, benefits, or privileges to any other member of the armed forces who is not a member of a regular component and who is retired, or to whom retired pay is granted, because of physical disability.

(Aug. 10, 1956, ch. 1041, 70A Stat. 100.)

Historical and Revision Notes
Revised sectionSource (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)
1215 37:272(i). Oct. 12, 1949, ch. 681, §402(i), 63 Stat. 820.

The words "is retired, or to whom retired pay is granted" are substituted for the words "heretofore or hereafter retired or granted retirement pay". The words "any other member of the armed forces" are substituted for the words "all members of the reserve components", since the words "reserve components" are defined by section 102(k) of the Career Compensation Act of 1949, 63 Stat. 805 (37 U.S.C. 231(k)), to include members appointed, enlisted, or inducted without component.

§1216. Secretaries: powers, functions, and duties

(a) The Secretary concerned shall prescribe regulations to carry out this chapter within his department.

(b) Except as provided in subsection (d), the Secretary concerned has all powers, functions, and duties incident to the determination under this chapter of—

(1) the fitness for active duty of any member of an armed force under his jurisdiction;

(2) the percentage of disability of any such member at the time of his separation from active duty;

(3) the suitability of any member for reappointment, reenlistment, or reentry upon active duty in an armed force under his jurisdiction; and

(4) the entitlement to, and payment of, disability severance pay to any member of an armed force under his jurisdiction.


(c) The Secretary concerned or the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, as prescribed by the President, has the powers, functions, and duties under this chapter incident to hospitalization, reexaminations, and the payment of disability retired pay within his department or agency.

(d) The Secretary concerned may not, with respect to any member who is a general officer or flag officer or is a medical officer being processed for retirement under any provisions of this title by reason of age or length of service—

(1) retire such member under section 1201 of this title;

(2) place such member on the temporary disability retired list pursuant to section 1202 of this title; or

(3) separate such member from an armed force pursuant to section 1203 of this title


by reason of unfitness to perform the duties of his office, grade, rank, or rating unless the determination of the Secretary concerned with respect to unfitness is first approved by the Secretary of Defense on the recommendation of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs.

(Aug. 10, 1956, ch. 1041, 70A Stat. 100; Pub. L. 94–225, §2(a), Mar. 4, 1976, 90 Stat. 202; Pub. L. 96–513, title V, §511(45), Dec. 12, 1980, 94 Stat. 2924; Pub. L. 98–525, title XIV, §1405(25), Oct. 19, 1984, 98 Stat. 2623; Pub. L. 99–661, div. A, title XIII, §1343(a)(7), Nov. 14, 1986, 100 Stat. 3992; Pub. L. 101–189, div. A, title XVI, §1621(a)(2), Nov. 29, 1989, 103 Stat. 1603; Pub. L. 104–106, div. A, title IX, §903(f)(2), Feb. 10, 1996, 110 Stat. 402; Pub. L. 104–201, div. A, title IX, §901, Sept. 23, 1996, 110 Stat. 2617.)

Historical and Revision Notes
Revised sectionSource (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)
1216(a)

1216(b)

1216(c)

37:283 (1st 17 words).

37:284(a).

37:284 (less (a)).

Oct. 12, 1949, ch. 681, §§413 (1st 17 words), 414, 63 Stat. 824, 825.

In subsection (b), the words "of any member for reappointment, reenlistment" are inserted for clarity, since they are implied in the words "reentry into active service".

In subsections (b) and (c), the words "under this chapter" are inserted for clarity.

In subsection (c), the words "as prescribed by the President" are substituted for the words "under regulations promulgated by the President".


Editorial Notes

Amendments

1996—Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 104–106, §903(a), (f)(2), which directed amendment of subsec. (d), eff. Jan. 31, 1997, by substituting "official in the Department of Defense with principal responsibility for health affairs" for "Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs", was repealed by Pub. L. 104–201.

1989—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 101–189 substituted "Secretary of Veterans Affairs" for "Administrator of Veterans' Affairs".

1986—Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 99–661 substituted "who is a general officer or flag officer or is a medical officer" for "who is in pay grade O–7 or higher or is a Medical Corps officer or medical officer of the Air Force" in provisions preceding par. (1).

1984—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 98–525 struck out "of this section" after "subsection (d)" in provisions preceding par. (1).

1980—Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 96–513 substituted "Affairs" for "and Environment".

1976—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 94–225, §2(a)(1), substituted "Except as provided in subsection (d) of this section, the Secretary" for "The Secretary".

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 94–225, §2(a)(2), added subsec. (d).


Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1980 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 96–513 effective Dec. 12, 1980, see section 701(b)(3) of Pub. L. 96–513, set out as a note under section 101 of this title.

Effective Date of 1976 Amendment

Pub. L. 94–225, §2(b), Mar. 4, 1976, 90 Stat. 202, provided that: "The amendments made by subsection (a) of this section [amending this section] shall apply with respect to unfitness determinations made on or after the date of the enactment of this Act [Mar. 4, 1976] by the Secretaries of the military departments concerned for purposes of sections 1201, 1202, and 1203 of title 10, United States Code."

Applicability of Subsection (d)

Subsec. (d) of this section inapplicable with respect to flag officers of the Coast Guard during any period in which the Coast Guard is not operating as a service in the Navy, see section 2157 of Title 14, Coast Guard.


Executive Documents

Ex. Ord. No. 10122. Regulations Governing Disability Pay, Hospitalization and Reexamination

Ex. Ord. No. 10122, Apr. 14, 1950, 15 F.R. 2173, as amended by Ex. Ord. 10400, Sept. 27, 1952, 17 F.R. 8648; 1953 Reorg. Plan No. 1, §§5, 8, eff. Apr. 11, 1953, 18 F.R. 2053, 67 Stat. 631; Ex. Ord. No. 11733, July 30, 1973, 38 F.R. 20431 provided:

By virtue of and pursuant to the authority vested in me by section 414(b) of the Career Compensation Act of 1949, approved October 12, 1949 (Public Law 351, 81st Congress [former section 284(b) of Title 37, now covered by subsecs. (b) and (c) of this section], and as President of the United States and Commander in Chief of the armed forces of the United States, I hereby prescribe the following regulations governing payment of disability retirement pay, hospitalization, and re-examination of members and former members of the uniformed services:

Section 1. The terms "uniformed services" and "Secretary" as used in these regulations shall have the meaning prescribed therefor by subsections (a) and (f), respectively, of section 102 of the Career Compensation Act of 1949 [section 101(3) and (5) of Title 37, Pay and Allowances of the Uniformed Services].

Sec. 2. (a) Effective as of October 1, 1949, all duties, powers, and functions incident to the payment of disability retirement pay of members or former members of the uniformed services retired for physical disability or receiving disability retirement pay shall, except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, be vested in the Secretary concerned.

(b) Effective July 1, 1950, all duties, powers, and functions exercised by the Veterans' Administration pursuant to Executive Order No. 8099 of April 28, 1939, as amended by Executive Order No. 8461 of June 28, 1940, relative to the administration of the retirement-pay provisions of section 1 of the act of August 30, 1935, as amended by section 5 of the act of April 3, 1939, 53 Stat. 557 [former section 369a of this title], and amendments thereof, shall, as to cases within their respective jurisdictions, be vested in the Secretary of the Army and the Secretary of the Air Force, and thereafter the Veterans' Administration shall not be charged in any case with any further responsibility in the administration of the said retirement-pay provisions. The said Executive Order No. 8099 as amended by the said Executive Order No. 8461 is hereby amended accordingly.

Sec. 3. All duties, powers, and functions incident to the hospitalization, except as provided in section 5 of this order, and re-examination of members of the uniformed services placed on the temporary disability retired list under the provisions of the Career Compensation Act of 1949 shall be vested in the Secretary concerned.

Sec. 4. Effective May 1, 1950, all duties, powers, and functions incident to the hospitalization of members or former members of the uniformed services permanently retired for physical disability or receiving disability retirement pay shall, except as provided in section 5 of this order, be vested in the Secretary concerned: Provided, that all the duties, powers, and functions incident to hospitalization which such members or former members are entitled to and elect to receive in facilities of the Veterans' Administration, other than hospitals under the jurisdiction of the uniformed services, shall be vested in the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs.

Sec. 5. All duties, powers, and functions incident to the hospitalization of members or former members of the uniformed services placed on the temporary disability retired list or permanently retired for physical disability or receiving disability retirement pay who require hospitalization for chronic diseases shall be vested in the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs: Provided, that all the duties, powers, and functions incident to hospitalization for such members or former members who elect to receive hospitalization in uniformed services facilities shall, subject to the availability of space and facilities and the capabilities of the medical and dental staff, be vested in the Secretary concerned: And provided further, that for the purpose of this order, the term "chronic disease" shall be construed to include arthritis, malignancy, psychiatric or neuropsychiatric disorder, neurological disabilities, poliomyelitis with disability residuals and degenerative diseases of the nervous system, severe injuries to the nervous system including quadriplegics, hemiplegics, and paraplegics, tuberculosis, blindness and deafness requiring definitive rehabilitation, major amputees, and such other diseases as may be so defined jointly by the Secretary of Defense, the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs, and the Federal Security Administrator and so described in appropriate regulations of the respective departments and agencies concerned. Executive Order No. 9703 of March 12, 1946, prescribing regulations relating to the medical care of certain personnel of the Coast Guard, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (formerly Coast and Geodetic Survey), Public Health Service, and the former Lighthouse Service, is hereby amended to the extent necessary to conform to the provisions of this section.

Sec. 6. Except as provided in section 5 hereof with respect to hospitalization for chronic diseases, nothing in this order shall be construed to affect the duties, powers, and functions of the Public Health Service with respect to hospitalization and medical examination of members and former members of the Coast Guard and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (formerly Coast and Geodetic Survey) under the Public Health Service Act, approved July 1, 1944 (58 Stat. 682), as amended [section 201 et seq. of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare], and the regulations prescribed by the said Executive Order No. 9703 of March 12, 1946.

Sec. 7. Nothing in this order shall be construed to affect the duties, powers, and functions vested in the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs pursuant to the provisions of the act of May 24, 1928, entitled "An Act making eligible for retirement, under certain conditions, officers and former officers of the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps of the United States, other than officers of the Regular Army, Navy, or Marine Corps, who incurred physical disability in line of duty while in the service of the United States during the World War" (45 Stat. 735, as amended) [section 581 of former Title 38], or by or pursuant to the act of September 26, 1941, entitled "An Act to provide retirement pay and hospital benefits to certain Reserve officers, Army of the United States, disabled while on active duty" (55 Stat. 733) [former section 456a of this title].

§1216a. Determinations of disability: requirements and limitations on determinations

(a) Utilization of VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities in Determinations of Disability.—(1) In making a determination of disability of a member of the armed forces for purposes of this chapter, the Secretary concerned—

(A) shall, to the extent feasible, utilize the schedule for rating disabilities in use by the Department of Veterans Affairs, including any applicable interpretation of the schedule by the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims; and

(B) except as provided in paragraph (2), may not deviate from the schedule or any such interpretation of the schedule.


(2) In making a determination described in paragraph (1), the Secretary concerned may utilize in lieu of the schedule described in that paragraph such criteria as the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs may jointly prescribe for purposes of this subsection if the utilization of such criteria will result in a determination of a greater percentage of disability than would be otherwise determined through the utilization of the schedule.

(b) Consideration of All Medical Conditions.—In making a determination of the rating of disability of a member of the armed forces for purposes of this chapter, the Secretary concerned shall take into account all medical conditions, whether individually or collectively, that render the member unfit to perform the duties of the member's office, grade, rank, or rating.

(Added Pub. L. 110–181, div. A, title XVI, §1642(a), Jan. 28, 2008, 122 Stat. 465.)

§1217. Academy cadets and midshipmen: applicability of chapter

(a) This chapter applies to cadets at the United States Military Academy, the United States Air Force Academy, and the United States Coast Guard Academy and midshipmen of the United States Naval Academy, but only with respect to physical disabilities incurred after October 28, 2004.

(b) Monthly cadet pay and monthly midshipman pay under section 203(c) of title 37 shall be considered to be basic pay for purposes of this chapter and the computation of retired pay and severance and separation pay to which entitlement is established under this chapter.

(Aug. 10, 1956, ch. 1041, 70A Stat. 100; Pub. L. 85–861, §33(a)(7), Sept. 2, 1958, 72 Stat. 1564; Pub. L. 108–375, div. A, title V, §555(b)(1), Oct. 28, 2004, 118 Stat. 1914; Pub. L. 109–364, div. A, title X, §1071(a)(6), Oct. 17, 2006, 120 Stat. 2398.)

Historical and Revision Notes
1956 Act
Revised sectionSource (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)
1217 [No source]. [No source].

The revised section is inserted to reflect the limited definition of the word "member" in section 102(b) of the Career Compensation Act of 1949 (37 U.S.C. 231(b)).

1958 Act

Aviation cadets were omitted from chapter 61 because Title IV of the Career Compensation Act of 1949 (formerly 37 U.S.C. 271 et seq.), which was the source law for this chapter, covered only members entitled to basic pay and it was believed that aviation cadets were not so entitled. However, the Comptroller General has ruled that aviation cadets are entitled to basic pay (30 Comp. Gen. 431). Accordingly, aviation cadets were covered by Title IV and should not be excepted from chapter 61.


Editorial Notes

Amendments

2006—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 109–364 substituted "October 28, 2004" for "the date of the enactment of the Ronald W. Reagan National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005".

2004Pub. L. 108–375 amended section catchline and text generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "This chapter does not apply to cadets at the United States Military Academy, the United States Air Force Academy, or the Coast Guard Academy, or to midshipmen of the Navy."

1958Pub. L. 85–861 struck out provisions which made chapter inapplicable to aviation cadets.


Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1958 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 85–861 effective Aug. 10, 1956, see section 33(g) of Pub. L. 85–861, set out as a note under section 101 of this title.

§1218. Discharge or release from active duty: claims for compensation, pension, or hospitalization

(a) A member of an armed force may not be discharged or released from active duty because of physical disability until he—

(1) has made a claim for compensation, pension, or hospitalization, to be filed with the Department of Veterans Affairs, or has refused to make such a claim; or

(2) has signed a statement that his right to make such a claim has been explained to him, or has refused to sign such a statement.


(b) A right that a member may assert after failing or refusing to sign a claim, as provided in subsection (a), is not affected by that failure or refusal.

(c) This section does not prevent the immediate transfer of a member to a facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs for necessary hospital care.

(d)(1) The Secretary of a military department shall ensure that each member of a reserve component under the jurisdiction of the Secretary who is determined, after a mobilization and deployment to an area in which imminent danger pay is authorized under section 310 or 351 of title 37, to require evaluation for a physical or mental disability which could result in separation or retirement for disability under this chapter or placement on the temporary disability retired list or inactive status list under this chapter is retained on active duty during the disability evaluation process until such time as such member is—

(A) cleared by appropriate authorities for continuation on active duty; or

(B) separated, retired, or placed on the temporary disability retired list or inactive status list.


(2)(A) A member described in paragraph (1) may request termination of active duty under such paragraph at any time during the demobilization or disability evaluation process of such member.

(B) Upon a request under subparagraph (A), a member described in paragraph (1) shall only be released from active duty after the member receives counseling about the consequences of termination of active duty.

(C) Each release from active duty under subparagraph (B) shall be thoroughly documented.

(3) The requirements in paragraph (1) shall expire on October 28, 2014.

(Added Pub. L. 85–56, title XXII, §2201(31)(A), June 17, 1957, 71 Stat. 160; amended Pub. L. 87–651, title I, §107(c), Sept. 7, 1962, 76 Stat. 508; Pub. L. 101–189, div. A, title XVI, §1621(a)(1), (4), Nov. 29, 1989, 103 Stat. 1602, 1603; Pub. L. 111–84, div. A, title V, §511, Oct. 28, 2009, 123 Stat. 2280; Pub. L. 113–291, div. A, title X, §1071(e)(1), Dec. 19, 2014, 128 Stat. 3509; Pub. L. 114–328, div. A, title VI, §618(c), Dec. 23, 2016, 130 Stat. 2160.)

Historical and Revision Notes

1962 Act

Sections 1218 and 1219 are restated, without substantive change, to conform to the style adopted for title 10.


Editorial Notes

Amendments

2016—Subsec. (d)(1). Pub. L. 114–328 inserted "or 351" after "section 310" in introductory provisions.

2014—Subsec. (d)(3). Pub. L. 113–291 substituted "on October 28, 2014" for "on the date that is five years after the date of the enactment of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010".

2009—Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 111–84 added subsec. (d).

1989—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 101–189, §1621(a)(1), substituted "Department of Veterans Affairs" for "Veterans' Administration".

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 101–189, §1621(a)(4), substituted "facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs" for "Veterans' Administration facility".

1962Pub. L. 87–651 amended section generally, and among other changes, substituted "Discharge or release from active duty: claims for compensation, pension, or hospitalization" for "Explanation of rights before discharge" in section catchline, and struck out provisions which prohibited a person from being discharged or released from active duty until his certificate of discharge or release from active duty and his final pay (or a substantial portion of his final pay) are ready for delivery to him or to his next of kin or legal representative.


Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Section effective Jan. 1, 1958, see section 2301 of Pub. L. 85–56, 71 Stat. 172.

§1218a. Discharge or release from active duty: transition assistance for reserve component members injured while on active duty

(a) Provision of Certain Information.—Before a member of a reserve component described in subsection (b) is demobilized or separated from the armed forces, the Secretary of the military department concerned shall provide to the member the following information:

(1) Information on the availability of care and administrative processing through community based warrior transition units.

(2) Information on the location of the community based warrior transition unit located nearest to the permanent place of residence of the member.


(b) Covered Members.—Subsection (a) applies to members of a reserve component who are injured while on active duty in the armed forces.

(Added Pub. L. 111–84, div. A, title VI, §641(a), Oct. 28, 2009, 123 Stat. 2364.)

§1219. Statement of origin of disease or injury: limitations

A member of an armed force may not be required to sign a statement relating to the origin, incurrence, or aggravation of a disease or injury that he has. Any such statement against his interests, signed by a member, is invalid.

(Added Pub. L. 85–56, title XXII, §2201(31)(A), June 17, 1957, 71 Stat. 160; amended Pub. L. 87–651, title I, §107(c), Sept. 7, 1962, 76 Stat. 509.)

Historical and Revision Notes

1962 Act

Sections 1218 and 1219 are restated, without substantive change, to conform to the style adopted for title 10.


Editorial Notes

Amendments

1962Pub. L. 87–651 substituted "Statement of origin of disease or injury: limitation" for "Statement against interest void" in section catchline, and "A member of an armed force may not be required to sign a statement relating to the origin, incurrence, or aggravation of a disease or injury that he has. Any such statement against his interests, signed by a member, is invalid" for "No person in the Armed Forces may be required to sign a statement of any nature relating to the origin, incurrence, or aggravation of any disease or injury he may have. Any such statement against his own interest, whenever signed, is of no force and effect."


Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Section effective Jan. 1, 1958, see section 2301 of Pub. L. 85–56, 71 Stat. 172.

[§1220. Repealed. Pub. L. 87–651, title I, §107(d), Sept. 7, 1962, 76 Stat. 509]

Section, added Pub. L. 85–56, title XXII, §2201(31)(A), June 17, 1957, 71 Stat. 161, related to location of accredited representatives at military installations.

§1221. Effective date of retirement or placement of name on temporary disability retired list

Notwithstanding section 8301 of title 5, the Secretary concerned may specify an effective date for the retirement of any member of the armed forces under this chapter, or for the placement of his name on the temporary disability retired list, that is earlier than the date provided for in that section.

(Added Pub. L. 85–861, §1(28)(B), Sept. 2, 1958, 72 Stat. 1451; amended Pub. L. 89–718, §3, Nov. 2, 1966, 80 Stat. 1115.)

Historical and Revision Notes
Revised sectionSource (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)
1221 5:47a(b). Aug. 2, 1956, ch. 876, 70 Stat. 933.

Clause (2)(A) is omitted as unnecessary since the revised section applies to the armed forces, and the revised section is made applicable to the other uniformed services by sections 3 and 4 of the act enacting this revised section. Clause (2)(B) is omitted as covered by section 101(8) of this title and sections 3 and 4 of the act enacting this revised section.


Editorial Notes

Amendments

1966Pub. L. 89–718 substituted "8301" for "47a".

§1222. Physical evaluation boards

(a) Response to Applications and Appeals.—The Secretary of each military department shall ensure, in the case of any member of the armed forces appearing before a physical evaluation board under that Secretary's supervision, that documents announcing a decision of the board in the case convey the findings and conclusions of the board in an orderly and itemized fashion with specific attention to each issue presented by the member in regard to that member's case. The requirement under the preceding sentence applies to a case both during initial consideration and upon subsequent consideration due to appeal by the member or other circumstance.

(b) Liaison Officer (PEBLO) Requirements and Training.—(1) The Secretary of Defense shall prescribe regulations establishing—

(A) a requirement for the Secretary of each military department to make available to members of the armed forces appearing before physical evaluation boards operated by that Secretary employees, designated as physical evaluation board liaison officers, to provide advice, counsel, and general information to such members on the operation of physical evaluation boards operated by that Secretary; and

(B) standards and guidelines concerning the training of such physical evaluation board liaison officers.


(2) The Secretary shall ensure compliance by the Secretary of each military department with physical evaluation board liaison officer requirements and training standards and guidelines at least once every three years.

(c) Standardized Staff Training and Operations.—(1) The Secretary of Defense shall prescribe regulations on standards and guidelines concerning the physical evaluation board operated by each of the Secretaries of the military departments with regard to—

(A) assignment and training of staff;

(B) operating procedures; and

(C) timeliness of board decisions.


(2) The Secretary shall ensure compliance with standards and guidelines prescribed under paragraph (1) by each physical evaluation board at least once every three years.

(Added Pub. L. 109–364, div. A, title V, §597(a)(1), Oct. 17, 2006, 120 Stat. 2236.)


Editorial Notes

Effective Date

Pub. L. 109–364, div. A, title V, §597(b), Oct. 17, 2006, 120 Stat. 2237, provided that: "Section 1222 of title 10, United States Code, as added by subsection (a), shall apply with respect to decisions rendered on cases commenced more than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 17, 2006]."


Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Quality Review of Medical Evaluation Boards, Physical Evaluation Boards, and Physical Evaluation Board Liaison Officers

Pub. L. 112–239, div. A, title V, §524, Jan. 2, 2013, 126 Stat. 1723, as amended by Pub. L. 115–232, div. A, title VIII, §813(f), Aug. 13, 2018, 132 Stat. 1851, provided that:

"(a) In General.—The Secretary of Defense shall standardize, assess, and monitor the quality assurance programs of the military departments to evaluate the following in the performance of their duties (including duties under chapter 61 of title 10, United States Code):

"(1) Medical Evaluation Boards.

"(2) Physical Evaluation Boards.

"(3) Physical Evaluation Board Liaison Officers.

"(b) Objectives.—The objectives of the quality assurance program shall be as follows:

"(1) To ensure accuracy and consistency in the determinations and decisions of Medical Evaluation Boards and Physical Evaluation Boards.

"(2) To otherwise monitor and sustain proper performance of the duties of Medical Evaluation Boards and Physical Evaluation Boards, and of Physical Evaluation Board Liaison Officers.

"(3) Such other objectives as the Secretary shall specify for purposes of the quality assurance program."

[(c) Repealed. Pub. L. 115–232, div. A, title VIII, §813(f), Aug. 13, 2018, 132 Stat. 1851.]