Deserter status can be assigned if a member is absent for less than 30 days and

• A. Are in civil confinement
• B. Have action pending on a previous unauthorized absence
• C. Are known to have purchased airline tickets
• D. Have received counseling for personal problems

Answer: (B)

Desertion isn’t defined only by how long someone is gone; it hinges on absence without authority and intent to remain away. If a member already has an unauthorized absence case open, any further unauthorized absence is treated as continuing AWOL, which can be reported as deserter status even if the current absence is under 30 days. The prior pending action shows a pattern of leaving without permission and not returning, meeting the situation for desertion. Being in civil confinement means the member is already under confinement, which is a different disciplinary state. Purchasing airline tickets could suggest an attempt to depart, but on its own does not establish desertion without the AWOL and lack of compliance with orders. Counseling for personal problems doesn’t demonstrate desertion.