Did you know that service members are claiming false travel expenses on their travel claims? Senior Enlisted Leaders should understand the importance of implementing basic training and education in the preparation and review of travel claims because it will prevent fraud. This paper will cover the background, implementation of training, and impact of filing a false travel claim.
Background
Service members are required to complete a travel claim for reimbursement upon completion of official travel. Additionally, the service member must be honest about claiming the expenses incurred on the DD 1351-2 travel voucher. The DoD Financial Management Regulation Volume 9 gives clear cut guidance on how to file a travel claim and explains “Even when someone else prepares the claim, the traveler remains responsible for the truth and accuracy of the information. When the traveler or a legally appointed designee signs the form, the traveler attests that the statements are true and complete and that the traveler is aware of the liability for filing a false claim”. (p. 8-7). PCS travel authorized by POV is most advantageous to the government and offers the highest amount for reimbursement. …show more content…
She received pay for 10 days of per diem. The inquiry found that the service member received a ride to Illinois from a friend – and then flew from Illinois to California. She was made to repay the difference in reimbursements and received a letter of reprimand (p. 170). As Senior Enlisted Leaders, the challenge of correcting this type of behavior may seem like an uphill battle at times, a few recommendations may help to make a
Background
Service members are required to complete a travel claim for reimbursement upon completion of official travel. Additionally, the service member must be honest about claiming the expenses incurred on the DD 1351-2 travel voucher. The DoD Financial Management Regulation Volume 9 gives clear cut guidance on how to file a travel claim and explains “Even when someone else prepares the claim, the traveler remains responsible for the truth and accuracy of the information. When the traveler or a legally appointed designee signs the form, the traveler attests that the statements are true and complete and that the traveler is aware of the liability for filing a false claim”. (p. 8-7). PCS travel authorized by POV is most advantageous to the government and offers the highest amount for reimbursement. …show more content…
She received pay for 10 days of per diem. The inquiry found that the service member received a ride to Illinois from a friend – and then flew from Illinois to California. She was made to repay the difference in reimbursements and received a letter of reprimand (p. 170). As Senior Enlisted Leaders, the challenge of correcting this type of behavior may seem like an uphill battle at times, a few recommendations may help to make a