Selection to the Seaman to Admiral (STA-21) Program results in the loss of which benefit?

The selection to the Seaman to Admiral (STA-21) Program leads to the loss of special duty assignment pay. This program is designed for enlisted personnel seeking to earn a commission as an officer while pursuing education. Participants transition from their prior enlisted roles and typically lose specific allowances and compensation tied to those roles, including special duty assignment pay, which is often granted for unique responsibilities or assignments in the enlisted ranks.

Remaining benefits such as housing allowance, healthcare benefits, and retention bonuses are generally maintained during the transition to officer status, as the STA-21 program does not fundamentally affect these aspects of compensation. Understanding this distinction is vital for service members considering their financial implications when applying for the STA-21 Program.