I joined the Navy 1 Sep 66 on the Minority Cruise program. On my DD214N (Dated 1 Jul 64) 17b (TERM OF SERVICE (years)) it says Min. I had always thought that it meant that I had 4 years of active duty toward retirement. I now have a different federal job and bought back my military time but am being told that it's only worth the active duty time towards FERS. Where would I get the information outling what this type of enlistment means for retirement?
You need expert information and you're not likely to get it here or from any other message board or online forum. I would be very cautious about any such advice you get, however well-intentioned.
The ultimate source of information on federal retirement, including crediting military service time, is the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM). But you should start with the personnel management staff in your current federal agency or department. You might also contact the Navy Personnel Command (familiarly known as BUPERS) for information. See http://www.public.navy.mil/bupers-npc/Pages/default.aspx.
If you feel you're not getting straight answers, you can always turn to your U.S. Representative or your U.S. Senators to ask them to intervene on your behalf.
Good luck.
Ron Carlson, Webmaster Armed Guard / Merchant Marine website www.armed-guard.com
As one who served a minority enlistment, although long ago, I suspect you may be confusing terms of service with net service for pay purposes. A minority enlistment is entered into at any time prior to a boy's 18th birthday and expires when he reaches age 21 and is no longer a minor. So, while net service could total four full years, service toward a federal pension could be little as three years and a day. Data on the reverse of one's discharge certificate should specify net (or in some cases total) service for pay purposes. -- Fran
Do you know where I can find the actual definition of a Minority Cruse? I can remember my father explaining to me (30 years navy, deceased) that I was to get credit for 4 years of active duty for this type of enlistment. I can't find anything on line about it. Thanks, Larry