Constellation Sailors Stay Navy for Mere Than $1 Million - selective reenlistment bonuses - Brief Article

All Hands, Sept, 2001

Kevin Cullen

Scores of Sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS Constellation (CV 64) have been deciding to Stay Navy. As a result, the ship has disbursed more than $1 million in selective reenlistment bonuses (SRBs) since getting underway for their six-month deployment.

"The Navy has raised its bonus caps to encourage its Sailors to stick around," said Navy Counselor 1st Class (AW) Steven Cullen, from Galt, Calif., of the career information office. This office provides Sailors information about the benefits of reenlisting.

A major incentive for reenlistment, the SRB has become even more enticing when "Connie" entered the Persian Gulf.

"In reality, the money has always been there," said Cullen. "Until recently, no one has paid much attention to it. The fact that we're in 5th Fleet's area of operation sweetens the pot because the money is non-taxable."

At the end of a Sailor's enlistment, the Navy can sometimes provide incentives to stay on board by rewarding them financially. Sailors choosing to reenlist may be entitled to SRBs up to $45,000.

Fire Controlman 1st Class (SW) Todd Holier, who works in combat systems, has been in the Navy for 10 years. After signing on for another six, he received a whopping SRB of $45,000, more than double the one he received for his last reenlistment.

"The money was really the icing on the cake," said Hollier, a native of Eunice, La. "I was going to reenlist anyway. I already have everything I need." Holier placed every nickel of his latest SRB into a retirement fund.

Cullen assures Connie Sailors that once they reenlist, they should not have to wait a long time to collect their SRBs. The turnaround time is normally eight to 12 days.

In addition to handing out some hefty checks, the career information office also provides a wealth of services to Connie Sailors who are rotating to different duty stations, getting out of the Navy, staying in the Navy, changing rates or going to schools.

"Basically, we are here for awareness - our job is to give our Sailors options," said Cullen.

"I love the Navy and I love what I'm doing," Cullen continued. "I believe wholeheartedly that there's something for everyone here. We hope that we can make it worth everyone's while to stay in.

For more information about Navy retention initiatives, go to www. staynavy.navy.mil.