Promotion Delays and Revocations

Start Here If You Are New to Promotion Delays and Revocations

When a Commanding Officer determines that a Marine selected for promotion is UNQUALIFIED for promotion, the CO must submit an advance notification to MMPB-11 requesting delay or revocation of the certificate of appointment. Within 30 days of the advance notification, the CO submits a FULL report of circumstances with command endorsement, the Marine's acknowledgment and statement, and supporting documents. The Marine has the RIGHT to review the CO's recommendation and provide a statement. The Marine MUST submit a signed copy at minimum. Per MCO P1400.32DMCO P1400.32D paragraphs 1200.4 (Commander Responsibilities), 1204.3 (Promotion Restrictions), and 5200.5 (Endorsement Chain Process). Different processes apply to junior enlisted (delay typical) and SNCO (delay or revocation possible).

This page walks you through the delay and revocation framework from your seat as a Marine selectee or commander. By the end you will know.

• The commander's responsibility per paragraph 1200.4
• Promotion restrictions per paragraph 1204.3
• The advance notification framework
• The 30-day full report of circumstances
• The Marine's right to review and statement
• The endorsement chain process per paragraph 5200.5
• The difference between delay and revocation
• SNCO Undelivered Appointments framework
• TAD and parent command coordination

Every fact on this page comes from MCO P1400.32DMCO P1400.32D paragraphs 1200.4, 1204.3, and 5200.5, and MMPB-11 published guidance.

Commander Responsibility (Paragraph 1200.4)

Per MCO P1400.32DMCO P1400.32D paragraph 1200.4, commanders ensure.

Strict Compliance

Strict compliance with the policies and regulations contained in the Enlisted Promotion Manual.

Marine Corps Standards

That all enlisted Marines who are to be promoted to the next higher grade meet the Marine Corps standards of professionalism, personal performance, and leadership.

Capability for Higher Grade

That a Marine is NOT promoted unless the individual can be expected to assume the responsibilities and perform the duties of that grade in a CREDITABLE and SATISFACTORY manner.

Expeditious Promotion

That fully qualified and deserving Marines are EXPEDITIOUSLY promoted on the date directed by the CMC.

Implication

The commander has both an affirmative duty to promote qualified Marines AND a duty to delay or revoke promotion of unqualified Marines.

Promotion Restrictions (Paragraph 1204.3)

Per MCO P1400.32DMCO P1400.32D paragraph 1204.3, Marines will NOT be promoted while in any of the categories listed in this paragraph.

Common Restriction Categories

Specific restrictions are detailed in MCO P1400.32DMCO P1400.32D paragraph 1204.3. Common categories include.

• Pending court-martial.
• Under investigation for major misconduct.
• Pending administrative separation processing.
• Body Composition Program (BCP).
• Pending PEB.
• Various other conditions.

Why Restrictions Apply

The Marine Corps does not promote Marines who are in disciplinary processes, administrative separation processes, or other categories that call into question their qualification for the higher grade.

SNCO Undelivered Appointments

When the Commanding Officer determines that a Marine who has been selected for promotion by a HQMC SNCO Selection Board is unqualified for promotion.

What CMC (MMPB-11) Must Be Notified

CMC (MMPB-11) MUST IMMEDIATELY be notified by standard naval letter that the command requests the delay or revocation of the Marine's certificate of appointment to the next higher grade.

Why "Immediately"

Time is critical. The Marine should not be promoted while the CO's request for delay or revocation is processing. Immediate notification protects the integrity of the selection list.

The Advance Notification

The first step in delaying or revoking a promotion is the advance notification.

What the Advance Notification Contains

A standard naval letter from the Commanding Officer to MMPB-11 stating.

• The Marine's identification.
• The selection (board, IMOS, date).
• The reason for the recommendation (delay or revocation).
• The CO's specific recommendation.

MMPB-11 Response

Once the advance notification is received, MMPB-11 sends a message to the command with detailed instructions for submission of the report of circumstances.

The 30-Day Full Report of Circumstances

Within 30 days of submitting the advance notification, the CO must forward a full detailed report of circumstances.

Routing

The full report is forwarded by the commanding officer via the chain of command to CMC (MMPB-11).

Required Contents

CO's Recommendation

The commanding officer's specific recommendation for delivering, delaying, or revoking the appointment.

Commanding General's Endorsement

The endorsement of the Commanding General in the chain of command.

Marine's Acknowledgment and Statement

The Marine's acknowledgment that he or she has reviewed the CO's recommendation and any supporting documents. The Marine must, at a minimum, submit a SIGNED COPY (whichever statement option fits the circumstances).

The Marine may provide additional comments in subsequent paragraphs OR have someone prepare a statement on his or her behalf. Any third-party statements must be endorsed by the Marine, acknowledging that the statement is submitted with his or her knowledge.

Supporting Documents

Any supporting documents requested by CMC (MMPB-11).

The Marine's Right to Review

The Marine has the RIGHT to review the CO's recommendation and supporting documents.

What the Marine Reviews

• The CO's recommendation.
• All information used by the commander to substantiate the recommendation.

Why This Matters

Due process. The Marine cannot defend against a recommendation he or she has not seen. The right to review is procedural protection.

The Marine's Right to Statement

The Marine MUST submit a signed copy at minimum. The Marine MAY also provide.

• Additional comments in subsequent paragraphs.
• A statement prepared by someone else on the Marine's behalf (with the Marine's endorsement).

Why the Marine's Statement Matters

The statement is the Marine's opportunity to.

• Explain context not captured in the CO's recommendation.
• Identify factual disputes.
• Argue against the recommendation.
• Provide mitigation information.
• Support a more favorable outcome (delay vs revocation, or no action).

Format Best Practice

• Stay factual.
• Address each adverse fact.
• Provide specific examples.
• Reference supporting evidence.
• Stay concise.

Endorsement Chain Process (Paragraph 5200.5)

Per MCO P1400.32DMCO P1400.32D paragraph 5200.5, specific protections apply when the endorsement chain takes adverse action.

Less Favorable Endorsement

If a commander in the endorsing chain of command forwards a recommendation that is LESS FAVORABLE (e.g., revoke instead of delay) OR includes ADDITIONAL ADVERSE INFORMATION not previously cited, the Marine MUST be afforded an opportunity to review the endorsement.

Marine's Additional Statement

In such cases, the Marine must be provided an opportunity to provide an ADDITIONAL STATEMENT attesting that he or she has reviewed the endorsement and additional adverse information and been provided an opportunity to make additional comments.

More Favorable Endorsement

If subsequent commanders in the chain of command forward a recommendation that is MORE FAVORABLE to the Marine, then there is NO requirement to return the package to the Marine for another statement.

Why This Matters

The Marine has procedural rights only when the situation worsens during the endorsement process, not when it improves.

Delay vs Revocation

Delay

Temporarily prevents promotion. The Marine remains on the selection list. After the issue is resolved, the Marine may proceed to promotion.

Revocation

Permanently removes the Marine's selection. The Marine incurs a failure of selection. Future eligibility depends on the specific circumstances and other factors.

CO's Choice

The CO recommends one or the other based on the specific circumstances. CMC reviews and makes the final determination.

TAD and Parent Command Coordination

Per MCO P1400.32DMCO P1400.32D, commands with Marines attached in a temporary additional duty (TAD) status must seek concurrence from the Marine's PARENT command prior to effecting the promotion.

Why Parent Command Concurrence

The TAD command may not have full visibility of the Marine's overall record and recent events. The parent command provides the final concurrence ensuring no disqualifying issues exist.

Junior Enlisted vs SNCO Differences

Junior Enlisted (PFC, LCpl, Cpl, Sgt)

Promotion delays for junior enlisted are more common than revocations. The promotion is delayed until the issue is resolved (e.g., until BCP is completed, until pending action is resolved). When the issue is resolved, the Marine receives a date of rank for the 1st of the following month after compliance.

SNCO (SSgt and Above)

Both delay and revocation are possible. The SNCO Undelivered Appointment framework applies. CMC (MMPB-11) reviews the CO's recommendation and the Marine's statement.

PMOS Change at Promotion

Per MCO P1400.32DMCO P1400.32D, when a Marine is promoted ABOVE the grade ceiling for their current PMOS and they complete the requisite MOS generating school, the commander must change the Marine's PMOS to the next career progression MOS.

Why This Matters

Career progression often requires PMOS changes at certain grades. Failing to change the PMOS at the appropriate time can affect future career trajectory.

Common Delay and Revocation Scenarios

Scenario 1. Marine Selected for SSgt But Pending NJP

Marine selected for SSgt but has pending NJP for an alleged offense.

• Step 1. CO submits advance notification to MMPB-11.
• Step 2. MMPB-11 responds with instructions.
• Step 3. Within 30 days, CO submits full report of circumstances with the Marine's acknowledgment.
• Step 4. Marine reviews the recommendation, submits a signed statement.
• Step 5. The endorsement chain reviews. CMC determines delay or revocation.
• Possible Outcome. Delay until NJP resolves. If acquitted, Marine proceeds to promotion. If found guilty of significant misconduct, may result in revocation.

Scenario 2. Marine Selected for GySgt But Assigned to BCP

Marine selected for GySgt but assigned to BCP after the board.

• Step 1. CO submits advance notification.
• Step 2. CO submits full report.
• Step 3. Likely outcome. Delay until BCP is completed.

Scenario 3. Marine Refuses Promotion

Marine selected refuses to accept the appointment.

• Result. Removal from population. Failure of selection. Ineligible for future PSBs in the same component.

The Failure of Selection and Non-Selection leaf covers this framework.

Scenario 4. Marine on TAD When Promotion Is Effected

Marine on TAD at another command when promotion would be effected.

• Step 1. TAD command coordinates with parent command.
• Step 2. Parent command concurs.
• Step 3. TAD command effects the promotion.

Scenario 5. Junior Enlisted PME Late Entry

Junior enlisted Marine completed PME but the entry is late.

• Path. Junior remedial promotion per MARADMIN 559/23MARADMIN 559/23.
• Result. MCTFS automatically recomputes JEPES score and effects auto-remedial promotion in the next promotion cycle.

The Junior Enlisted Promotions leaf covers junior remedial.

Common Mistakes

Mistake 1. Effecting Promotion Despite Disqualifying Issue

The commander has an affirmative duty to delay or revoke promotion when the Marine is unqualified per paragraph 1204.3. Effecting promotion despite a disqualifying issue is a violation.

Mistake 2. Late Advance Notification

The advance notification must be IMMEDIATELY upon determination of unqualification. Delay can result in the Marine being promoted while the issue is being processed.

Mistake 3. Skipping the Marine's Right to Review

The Marine has the right to review the CO's recommendation. Failing to provide this opportunity is a procedural violation.

Mistake 4. Not Endorsing the Marine's Statement

If a third party prepares a statement on the Marine's behalf, the Marine must endorse it. Without endorsement, the statement is invalid.

Mistake 5. Ignoring Less Favorable Endorsement Notification

When an endorsement is less favorable or adds adverse information, the Marine MUST be given an opportunity to review and provide additional statement. Skipping this is a procedural violation.

Mistake 6. Not Coordinating With Parent Command for TAD Marines

Promoting a TAD Marine without parent command concurrence is a procedural violation.

Common Questions Marines Ask

What is a promotion delay?

A temporary prevention of promotion. The Marine remains on the selection list. After the issue is resolved, the Marine may proceed.

What is promotion revocation?

Permanent removal of the Marine's selection. Failure of selection is incurred.

What triggers a delay or revocation?

Per MCO P1400.32DMCO P1400.32D paragraph 1204.3. Various categories including pending court-martial, BCP, pending administrative separation, etc.

What does the CO submit?

First, an advance notification (immediate). Within 30 days, a full report of circumstances with the CO's recommendation, Commanding General's endorsement, the Marine's acknowledgment and statement, and supporting documents.

What rights do I have?

Right to review the CO's recommendation. Right to provide a signed statement. Right to additional statement if endorsement chain becomes less favorable. Right to have someone prepare a statement on your behalf (with your endorsement).

Do I have to provide a statement?

You must submit a signed copy at minimum. The signed copy can be a single page acknowledging review.

What if a third party prepares a statement for me?

You must endorse it. Acknowledging that the statement is submitted with your knowledge.

What is the endorsement chain process per paragraph 5200.5?

If a commander in the endorsing chain forwards a recommendation that is less favorable (revoke instead of delay) OR adds adverse information, you must be given an opportunity to review and provide an additional statement.

If a more favorable endorsement is forwarded, no return to me?

Correct. If subsequent commanders forward a more favorable recommendation, there is no requirement to return the package to you.

What if I am on TAD when my promotion would be effected?

The TAD command must seek concurrence from your parent command prior to effecting the promotion.

What is SNCO Undelivered Appointment?

The framework for SNCO Marines whose CO requests delay or revocation of the certificate of appointment after selection.

What is the 30-day window?

The 30 days starts when the CO submits the advance notification. Within those 30 days, the CO submits the full report.

What if I am refused promotion or revoke my selection?

If you refuse to accept the appointment, you are removed from population, incur failure of selection, and are ineligible for future PSBs in the same component.

Does the chain of command always recommend revocation?

No. The chain may recommend delay (typical for resolvable issues) or revocation (typical for serious or unresolvable issues). The chain may also recommend delivery despite the issue (typical for minor or resolved issues).

Where to Go for Help

Routing by Issue

• Advance notification submission. The commanding officer to MMPB-11 (enlistedpromotions@usmc.mil).
• 30-day full report. CO via chain of command to MMPB-11.
• Marine's right to review and statement. Through unit S-1 and chain of command.
• Endorsement chain notification. The commander when forwarding less favorable endorsement or adding adverse information.
• Parent command coordination for TAD Marines. The TAD command through unit S-1 to the parent command.
• General delay or revocation questions. MMPB-11 at enlistedpromotions@usmc.mil.

Where to Go Next on This Site

• Promotions landing page lists all topics.
• Promotions Overview and Authorities covers the framework.
• SNCO Selection Boards (SSgt and Above) covers the selection that creates the appointment.
• Failure of Selection and Non-Selection covers the consequences of revocation.
• Obligated Service (OBS) and Reenlistment for Promotion covers OBS-related delays.
• PME Requirements for Promotion covers PME-related delays.
• Junior Enlisted Promotions (Pvt to Sgt) covers junior remedial promotion.
• NJP (Non-Judicial Punishment) covers UCMJ-related delays.
• Court-Martial Process covers court-martial-related delays.

Related Roles

• Leaders coach Marines on responding to delay or revocation recommendations.
• Admin at S-1 supports advance notification and full report routing.
• Commanders ensure procedural protections are followed and recommendations align with paragraph 1204.3.

When a Marine is unqualified for promotion, the CO submits an advance notification to MMPB-11 immediately, then a 30-day full report of circumstances. The Marine has the right to review the recommendation and provide a signed statement. Endorsement chain process per paragraph 5200.5 protects against worsening recommendations. Delay (temporary) vs Revocation (permanent). SNCO Undelivered Appointments framework. TAD coordination with parent command. PMOS changes at promotion above grade ceiling. Per MCO P1400.32DMCO P1400.32D paragraphs 1200.4, 1204.3, and 5200.5.