Soldiers with more than 25 years service to retire in July

The Ministry of Defence has authorised the Armed Forces to initiate a process for the retirement of soldiers, who have served the military for 25 years and above following the release of money by the government for the payment of their gratuity. A statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel E. W. K. Nibo, Director of Public Relations, said the process, which would be in phases, would begin on 1 July.

"As a result, all servicemen and women, who have served 29 years and above form the first batch of phase one. These service personnel will commence their terminal leave between 1 July and 29 depending on the length of service of each individual," the statement said.

"It is the aim of the Military Command that the second phase, that is 25 to 28 years, will be initiated as soon as funds are made available." It said the procedure involves notification of release, which is issued to the individual by the Directorate of Military Records. This indicates when the individual should commence terminal leave and the duration.

"The Forces Pay Office then works out the 80 per cent gratuity and the individual's terminal leave pay on receipt of the notification. Formal release authorisation follows two weeks after the notification and the service personnel is issued his/her discharge document."

The statement said at the end of the terminal leave, the individual is paid the remaining 20 per cent less deductions, if any. It said this is the normal administrative procedure, which all other ranks go through when they are due for retirement after 25 years service with the colours.

"The Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces High Command wish to express their appreciation, gratitude and commendation to all retiring service personnel for diligently and honourably serving their nation and wish them a happy, fruitful and successful retirement life."