What is the primary focus of the Voluntary Sea Duty Program?

The primary focus of the Voluntary Sea Duty Program is to provide service members the opportunity to select their own sea duty assignments through choice orders. This program is designed to enhance the experience of personnel by allowing them to have a voice in their assignments, which can lead to higher job satisfaction and morale. Giving service members the chance to choose their orders supports retention by making sea duty assignments more appealing and aligned with individual career plans and aspirations.

While career progression, increased pay, and reduced deployments may be factors influencing a service member's decision to participate in the program, the essential feature that defines the Voluntary Sea Duty Program is the availability of choice orders. This aspect empowers sailors to actively participate in decisions regarding their careers while fulfilling the needs of the Navy.