Last Updated on June 13, 2023
Updated on May 18, 2023
In December 2022, a new policy went into effect that allows 12 weeks of paternity leave to servicemembers who have a baby, adopt a child, or have a child in foster care for at least 24 months.
This leave is non-chargeable and paid. This is amazing progress in allowing soldiers to be with their new babies!
Previous Policies
In the past, it was up to the command to grant leave to a soldier who became a father.
Previously, there was a policy in place that grants the new dad (whether for the first child or subsequent children) ten days of non-chargeable leave. The leave had to be taken all at once and within 45 days of the baby’s birth.
Since this passed, it was no longer up to command whether it should be granted – it is guaranteed leave for a new parent.
Now, the leave can be taken within one year and has to be taken in a minimum of one-week increments.
Also, it’s important to note that this policy applies to the parent of the child who didn’t give birth. Female soldiers who give birth fall under different leave policies and may be granted additional leave if medically necessary.
Kudos to those who pushed for this new policy. It is definitely a step in the right direction and ensures all new fathers will receive the same amount of time with their new family regardless of their unit or command.
I thought I read a new policy where they get 21 days.. I know my husband found it last year when we adopted but have not been able to find it again.. do you know if this is still true and where can I find it for the Soldiers that I work for? Thank you.
As far as I’m aware, it is only 10 days.
does this still apply if they’re in OSUT or AIT??
Good question. The policy only states that they must be on “active duty”.
Since I don’t know what OSUT or AIT stands for, I might be repeating the above question, if so I’m sorry. My husband is set to be in Ranger School when our second is born, would he be able to get this leave or does the policy not apply to the men in various schools? I had no clue they had enstilled something like this, and was thinking the other night how they should. I’m glad they listened to my thoughts before I even had them! ;p
My husband will be at basic training when my little man arrives
Many people are telling him he’ll get sent home, but i just don’t see it happening
Do you know if this is true or not?
Doubtful during basic training. I”m sorry.
Hi as of 2013 do you know if this policy still applies?
I’m not aware of any changes with the policy.
Thank you for the info. My husband was to finish his AIT right before we had our baby, but his class date may not start for 2-6 weeks! 🙁 So if all goes well maybe he can take that leave after. I know this sounds morbid, but my dr keeps reminding me we might not have a live birth. (My condition puts us at risk for losing the baby at any point.) Is the leave the same with a still birth?
Thanks!
Is this the same if you aren’t married ?
No, unfortunately if you’re not married the Army won’t make any exceptions.