Sailors Earn $500,000 to "Stay Navy"

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Navy News | PO2 James Seward | March 13, 2007

USS Boxer, At Sea -- Since the beginning of USS Boxer’s (LHD 4) deployment in mid-September, more than $500,000 in Selective Reenlistment Bonuses (SRBs) have been awarded to Boxer Sailors choosing to “Stay Navy.”

As of March 10, 50 Sailors have taken advantage of the SRB benefit which is used as an incentive to retain Sailors with special skills in critically manned jobs.

“The fact that Boxer Sailors are deciding to reenlist indicates the drive and motivation of our Sailors, especially with the ship’s recent extension in the Persian Gulf,” said Cmdr. Paul J. Shock, Boxer’s executive officer. “The civilian world is always looking for the skill set we are retaining, and the fact that Boxer has awarded $500,000 in SRBs sends the message that the Navy really cares about its people.”

Navy SRBs average from $2,000 to $90,000 depending on an individual’s critical skill. SRBs on Boxer range from $2,000 to $45,000. Four of Boxer’s Sailors have received its highest amount.

“Knowing that I would get $45,000 definitely affected my decision to reenlist,” said Intelligence Specialist 2nd Class Jennifer Ingalls. “This money, plus my steady paycheck allows me to take care of my daughter.”

Prior to Sailors receiving a higher scale SRB, they must meet certain pre-qualifications such as required job certification and certain job-specific training that make them essential to the Navy’s mission.

“It’s satisfying to see a Sailor take advantage of the SRB they deserve,” said Navy Counselor 1st Class (SW) Cedric Hardy. “SRBs are a great incentive to reenlist, but the Navy values every Sailor who considers reenlisting.”

Boxer is currently operating in the Persian Gulf conducting maritime security operations (MSO) in support of U.S. 5th Fleet. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the Persian Gulf and protect Iraq’s sea-based infrastructure to help provide the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination.

Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander U.S. 5th Fleet’s responsibility encompasses about 7.5 million square miles and includes the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, and parts of the Indian Ocean. This expanse comprised of 27 countries, includes three critical choke points at the Strait of Hormuz, the Suez Canal, and the Strait of Bab al Mandeb at the southern tip of Yemen.

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