The Coast Guard is adjusting the upcoming Assignment Year 2026 (AY26) Permanent Change of Station (PCS) season, providing commanders with increased flexibility to meet the unique operational demands of next summer's high-profile national events.
This summer, the nation will host numerous "America 250" celebrations alongside the FIFA World Cup, with many activities occurring in the maritime domain. To ensure the Coast Guard can fully support these large-scale events, the service is expanding the PCS transfer window and empowering local commanders to manage personnel report dates more effectively.
“Supporting these historic events requires our full focus and readiness,” said Rear Admiral Zeita Merchant, Assistant Commandant for Workforce Management. “This expanded flexibility is designed to give field commanders the tools they need to ensure mission continuity during a uniquely demanding period.”
ALCOAST 022/26 details three main interventions for the AY26 PCS season:
- Expanded Transfer Window: The AY26 Active-Duty PCS transfer window is now April 1 through Oct. 1.
- Command Authority: Commanding Officers (COs) and Officers in Charge (OICs) will have the authority to approve members' PCS report dates anywhere within this new, expanded window without needing to seek approval from PSC.
- PCS Prioritization: To resolve any conflicting report date requests, priority will be given to units that are directly supporting America 250 or 2026 FIFA World Cup operations.
While commanders will have greater flexibility, they must ensure that any adjusted report dates are fully coordinated between the gaining and losing commands. Changes must also be officially reflected on members' orders in a timely manner.
The Personnel Service Center (PSC) retains the authority to adjust individual PCS timelines if needed to preserve critical mission capabilities. Commands involved in the summer's key events are encouraged to engage with PSC early if they anticipate needing to change orders to facilitate operations.
To help ensure smooth transitions across the service, leaders are also encouraging members to schedule personal leave outside of the peak PCS transfer months of June, July, and August. Commanders are advised to consider using phased turnovers, overlap periods, and advanced arrival or late departure options to maintain operational continuity.
These temporary adjustments are aimed at ensuring the Coast Guard remains "Always Ready" to meet the nation's needs during a busy and historic summer.
For complete policy details, members should refer to ALCOAST 022/26. Questions regarding individual members’ PCS orders should be routed to the order-issuing Personnel and Administration Office or the member’s detailer, as appropriate. Questions on the ALCOAST or Military Assignments policy can be directed to COMDT (CG-WMM-2) at HQSPolicyandStandards@uscg.mil.
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