U.S. Army reducing ranks by 740 captains as part of downsizing mandate

The U.S. Army said recently that 740 captains are being notified that they have been chosen for separation or early retirement as the branch's mandated downsizing efforts continue.

The Officer Separations Board (OSB) and the Enhanced Selective Early Retirement Board (ESERB) recently met to assist with the reductions, reviewing 4,000 captains' records and paring the list to 740, then ordering that they be notified through their proper chain-of-command of their separation or early retirement.

"We must implement drawdown levers to reach the approved end strength. Many of our officers selected for separation have selflessly served with courage and honor throughout their careers and displayed the values, character and competence that make our Army second to none."Lt. Gen. James McConville, deputy chief of staff, Army G1, said in a statement.

Those selected will be notified by Feb. 25 and will have until Dec. 1 to decide whether to separate or take early retirement. Officers who are deployed or in combat zones will redeploy to prepare for transition, and those assigned outside the continental U.S. will get the chance to return to a state-side post.

"The Army remains committed to support these transitioning officers as they prepare themselves and their families for the next chapter of their lives," McConville said. "Because each officer has a unique individual service history, separation benefits will vary for each officer. Transitioning officers are encouraged to have their installation transition center produce a service computation report, which will assist each officer in determining which benefits they are eligible to receive."

McConville said officials will ensure these departing captains receive any needed support in finding resources to assist with the transition back to civilian life, including ways in which to participate in the Army National Guard or Army Reserve.

"This not only benefits the Army, but also benefits the transitioning soldier as their hard-earned skills and experience will be used to strengthen the total Army, and their families can continue to take advantage of military benefits," McConville said.