CENTCOM NEWS RELEASE

September 25, 2003
Release Number: 03-09-22

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

U.S. Central Command Unveils R & R Leave Program

In a continuing effort to improve the quality of life and readiness of U.S. service members currently supporting operations in Iraq, the United States Central Command has established a Rest and Recuperation Leave program beginning September 25, 2003. Those service members serving in the Iraqi theater of operations with 12-month orders will be eligible for this program.

Service members will have the opportunity to be flown at government expense either to a designated location in Europe or the United States where they can then link up with follow-on commercial transportation and take up to 15 days of annual leave. This annual leave will enable service members the opportunity for rest and recuperation and to focus on family and friends during their leave. The program is seen as a quality of life investment in the U.S. forces serving in the Iraqi theater which actually will improve readiness.