Impact of the Housing Crisis on Home-Owning Marines

摘要

Traditionally, mission success has been the sole priority of the Marine Corps. Therefore, Marines are selected for orders based on the needs of the Marine Corps, not the unfortunate paralysis of the economy or private economic endeavors of Marines. However, the uncertain national economy and the precipitous housing crisis are a new dynamic that could limit career opportunities, compound wartime strains, and erode mission readiness. Department of Defense (DoD) directive 4165.63 requires DoD personnel eligible for housing allowance 'to rely on the private sector as the primary source for housing accompanied and unaccompanied.' Because of this mandate, many Marines privately own homes. As such, Marines, like their civilian counterparts, face a real threat of financial ruin which could have second and third order effects on career progression. The housing crisis places Marines in a dilemma: either seek-career enhancing opportunities and face potential financial ruin, or jeopardize career advancement by taking any available local job to prevent a move. The Marine Corps and the DoD at large, must acknowledge this emerging threat. More specifically, when requiring home-owning Marines to move, Headquarters Marine Corps (HQMC) and Marine Corps Manpower Management Division must weigh the negative impact of the housing crisis on Marines' career progression opportunities, its potential to compound wartime strains on Marine families, and its potential to erode mission readiness. Compassion, creative leadership, and a vested interest in the quality of life that Marines and their families enjoy is central to keeping the Marine Corps vibrant, strong, and focused on mission success.