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What
are the applicable statutes/regulations?
The right of all Navy and Marine Corps members to directly communicate
grievances to, or seek assistance from, their Commanding Officers is
established in U.S. Navy Regulations (Articles 0820c and 1151.1) and the
Marine Corps Manual (par 805). This right is exercised through the
formal process of Request Mast.
OPNAVINST 3120.32C, Standard Organization and Regulations of the U.S.
Navy
What is Request Mast?
Request Mast includes both the right of the member to personally talk to the
commander, normally in person, and the requirement that the commander
consider the matter and personally respond to the member requesting mast.
Request Mast provides a member the opportunity to communicate not only with
his or her immediate commanding officer, but also with any superior
commander in the chain of command up to and including the member's immediate
commanding officer. Request Mast also provides commanders with
firsthand knowledge of the morale and general welfare of the command.
Who can request mast?
All Navy and Marine Corps
members should first make every effort to address the offending behavior
directly with the party responsible, verbally or in writing. You can
also discuss the matter with your immediate supervisor and request
assistance. If you
are unable to resolve the issue informally, you have the right to Request
Mast.
Can a commanding officer deny a Request Mast application?
A commanding officer may deny
a Request Mast application if there is another specific avenue of redress
available to the member. The commanding officer should explain to the
member why he/she denied the Request Mast application and, if appropriate,
explain the procedure the member should follow to resolve the issue.
The commanding officer may also require the member to go through the Chain
of Command prior to approving Mast.
What are some issues that are not appropriate for Request Mast?
Generally, a military member can speak to the Commanding
Officer about any subject; however, the member can not use request mast for
the following reasons:
- Request Mast should not be
used as a means of attacking the proceedings, punishment, or
findings and sentence resulting from a disciplinary action brought under
the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).
- Request Mast may not be
used to harass, avoid duty, or intentionally interfere with the
commander's ability to carry out the functions and mission of the command.
- Request Mast cannot be
used if the member is being processed for involuntary separation or if the
subject of the complaint is an ongoing Article 138, UCMJ, or Article 1150,
Navy Regulations.
How do I submit a
Request Mast application?
Complete the Request Mast
Application form (NAVMC 11296) and submit it through the chain of command to the Commanding Officer.
Ask your legal office for assistance in obtaining a copy of the form
Who should I contact to obtain more information about Request Mast procedures?
Your legal officer or command
Staff Judge Advocate.
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