DoDI 1332.45 - Retention Determinations for Non-Deployable Service Members

Scope

DoDI 1332.45 establishes DoD policy for retention determinations for non-deployable Service members. The instruction sets the 12-consecutive-month non-deployable threshold as the trigger for a mandatory retention determination. At the threshold, commanders initiate a retention determination that results in one of four outcomes: retention on active duty, separation for cause, referral to the Disability Evaluation System, or retirement eligibility review. The instruction is the DoD authority for Extended and Permanent Limited Duty (EPLD) processing and for cases where LIMDU status reaches the retention decision point.

Audience

Commanders initiating retention determinations when a Marine reaches the 12-month non-deployable threshold. Medical Treatment Facility (MTF) personnel coordinating DES referrals. S-1 admin specialists tracking LIMDU timelines and identifying cases approaching the threshold. MMSR-4 (Physical Disability Branch) at HQMC reviewing cases for disposition. Marines in Extended or Permanent LIMDU status approaching the retention determination point.

Non-Deployable Threshold and Retention Determination

A Service member who is non-deployable for 12 consecutive months triggers a mandatory retention determination. The 12-month clock runs from the first day of non-deployable status. LIMDU periods, medical hold, and any other duty-limiting condition count toward the clock.

Retention Determination Outcomes

• Retained on active duty. The commander determines the Service member is fit for retention with restrictions. Permanent Limited Duty (PLD) or Expanded Permanent Limited Duty (EPLD) accommodates the condition.
• Separation for cause. The condition does not meet the standard for retention, but does not warrant a disability finding. The Service member is separated under the applicable separation authority.
• Referral to the Disability Evaluation System. The condition warrants MEB review under DoDI 1332.18. The case transfers to the DES track.
• Retirement eligibility review. The Service member meets retirement eligibility thresholds. The retention determination includes retirement coordination.

Connection to LIMDU Framework

Within the Marine Corps LIMDU framework, DoDI 1332.45 is the authority at the back end of the LIMDU cycle. MCO 6320.3B Marine Corps Limited Duty Program governs the LIMDU process. When the LIMDU period and any authorized extensions expire without a return to full duty, the case proceeds to the retention determination under DoDI 1332.45.

Connection to Marine Corps Policy

• DoDI 1332.18 Disability Evaluation System. Governs the DES referral track when the retention determination triggers DES review.
• MCO 1900.16 Separation and Retirement Manual (MARCORSEPMAN). Chapter 2 physical disability separation and retirement. MCO 6320.3B Marine Corps Limited Duty Program. LIMDU process leading to the retention threshold.
• NAVMED P-117 Manual of the Medical Department. Medical fitness standards supporting the retention determination.
• 10 USC 1201-1221. Statutory authority for disability retirement and separation.

Status

Active. Effective 6 June 2018. Reissues and cancels DoD Instruction 1332.38. The Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness sponsors. Distribution Statement A.