Deadline Set for AWOL Soldiers to Rejoin via 'Army+' App: How to Submit Your Request.

Returning to Service: A Second Chance for Absent Troops

According to Novyny.live: Service members who left their posts without authorization before June 12, 2023, now have a window to request reinstatement through the 'Army+' mobile application. The deadline to submit such requests is September 20, 2023. This initiative aims to bring these soldiers back to their units and strengthen the staffing of Ukraine's Armed Forces.

Eligible personnel—those who went AWOL before the specified cutoff—can choose from over 50 different units to rejoin, offering flexibility in their next assignment. For the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the review process takes seven days. For the National Guard of Ukraine (NGU), it takes 96 hours, and notification of the commander's order arrives within 72 hours. Once the order is issued, the soldier has 48 hours to travel to their designated unit.

Statistics and Step-by-Step Application Process

Data shows that roughly 10% of soldiers in mechanized brigades have previously gone AWOL, while in high-tech units, that figure drops to just 1.5%. This highlights differences in motivation and service conditions across various branches.

For those looking to return, knowing how to properly file a report in 'Army+' is crucial. The process involves several steps:

• Open the 'Reports' section in the app's menu.
• Specify your branch, as you can only return to the same type of structure you served in before.
• Choose a military unit from the provided list.
• Indicate your preferred service direction.
• Share your civilian experience and previous role in your former unit.
• Explain the reason for your unauthorized absence.
• Attach your military ID and phone number; optionally, include training certificates, a military medical board conclusion, or other medical documents.
• Fill in your military details.

This effort to reintegrate absent soldiers could be a key step toward improving conditions in military units and enhancing overall combat readiness.

The program reflects active efforts by Ukrainian military leadership to improve staffing and boost morale within the armed forces.

Amid the ongoing conflict, bringing these service members back to their units can positively impact the overall effectiveness of Ukraine's Armed Forces, enabling more efficient mission execution and higher preparedness levels. Reengaging those who previously left may also help reduce future AWOL incidents by fostering a sense of support and career choice among troops.