It is DOD policy to minimize the adverse effects on employees caused by actions such as reductions-in-force, base closures, consolidations, contracting out, position classification decisions, rotation from overseas, and transfers of function. The primary means for implementing this policy throughout the DOD is the Priority Placement Program (PPP).

      The PPP consists of several subprograms with the primary purpose of placing DOD employees who have been adversely affected through no fault of their own. Managers can expect that vacancies will only be matched with PPP registrants who are well qualified and that any registrant matched against a vacancy will have satisfactory performance and conduct.

      As the DOD continues transforming the military to meet the challenges of the 21 ^st century, the civilian workforce will experience the evolutionary effect of base realignment and closure, global rebasing, and force modernization. Based on past performance, DOD can expect PPP to play a vital role in minimizing the disruption that inevitably accompanies such significant change.

      I expect that all managers, supervisors and staff officials comply with the policies and procedures of the PPP including the following:

            a.     Registrants placed through the PPP will be treated equitably and fairly.

            b.     Placement assistance efforts must be adequately supported. This includes making available the necessary personnel and funds to support an effective program.
   
            c.     Grade and/or pay retention (if applicable) must be provided to otherwise eligible employees placed through the PPP.

      The success of PPP depends largely on the cooperation of supervisors, managers and affinnative command-level support. Therefore, with this statement, I affirm my personal commitment to support the PPP.
   
      Point of contact is Ms. Karen O'Connor at (619) 437- 342.

B. R. McLANE
                Vice Admiral, U.S. Navy