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                        DESERT SHIELD/STORM LESSONS LEARNED REPORT #N

           POC:                    [(b)(2)]

           TITLE: POV Policy for Push-Pull Mobilization

           OBSERVATION: Policy for use of privately owned vehicles
           (POV) by IRR and retired members during push-pull
           mobilization was changed several times during this
           contingency. Guidance was unclear and not understood by
           members, Lackland AFB, and ARPC. Given the short lead time
           from notification to report date and the allowance of only
           one paid travel day, Reservists faced being without
           personal transportation for an extended period of time.
           When Reservists elect to fly, they should make their own
           travel arrangements through the contract travel agency.

          DISCUSSION: Personnel reporting to Lackland AFB were not
          permitted to drive POVs to Lackland at first. Due to the
          short lead time to report, many were allowed to return home
          after reporting to finalize their affairs and to pick up
          POVs. Later, POVs were authorized. However, because of a
          misinterpretation of communication, ATC believed that ARPC
          was going to allow POV travel in select cases. ARPC
          understood that the option of flying or POV was authorized
          for all. The option of flying or driving a POV was that of
          the member. IMAs, IRRs, and retired regular members often
          sacrificed full travel reimbursement to have their
          automobiles with them. Many Reservists changed their plans
          in the days following notification, opting to drive instead
          of fly so they would have personal transportation.
          Reservists who flew were concerned about travel schedules
          and had to depend on receiving another phone call to tell
          them when to travel.
 
          LESSONS LEARNED: POV policy must be stated clearly at the
          beginning of a contingency. Travel by personal conveyance
          should be allowed and fully reimbursable. Reservists
          should have direct contact with the contract travel agency
          when making air travel arrangements.

          RECOMMENDED ACTIONS: A more exact policy on travel
          requirements and what will be expected of the member is
          needed. This will alleviate any problems due to
          interpretation between agencies. Give the Reservist the
          option of driving or flying to their reporting location.
          Have travel expenses fully reimbursed and allow paid travel
          time if a Reservist chooses to drive. Give the Reservists

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