The Marine Corps published new interim guidance establishing a standardized, three-phase process for commanders to follow when a Marine goes missing from duty. The guidance sets firm timelines, requires risk assessment up front, and creates a clear framework for deciding whether an absence is voluntary (UA) or involuntary (DUSTWUN). It is effective immediately and stays in force until replaced by permanent policy.
Heads up: Commands must presume a missing Marine is in potential danger until facts say otherwise, and the voluntary-versus-involuntary determination must be made within 48 hours.
Who it affects
This guidance covers the total force, but with an important distinction. The three-phase response framework applies to Marines on active-duty orders or otherwise under continuous Title 10 command authority. For reservists in IDT, IRR muster, or other RC duty statuses, commanders are directed to consult RC-specific policy, including MCO 1001R.1L W/CH 2, the Marine Corps Reserve Administrative Management Manual (MCRAMM), to determine the right course of action.
If you are an SMCR or IMA Marine currently on active orders, this process applies to you. If you are in a standard IDT weekend status, your commander's response is governed by reserve-specific guidance, and they should be consulting MCRAMM.
What you need to do
For most part-time reservists in a normal IDT status, there is no personal action required. Be aware this framework exists.
If you are a commander or SNCO with accountability responsibilities, know the three phases:
- Phase I (within 3 hours of discovery): Attempt contact through all available means. Check with local police, hospitals, and behavioral health facilities. Notify the unit chaplain. Report duty status in the Unit Management Status Report (UMSR) module in Marine Online. Notify the installation Provost Marshal Office (PMO).
- Phase II (complete no later than 24 hours after discovery): Appoint a preliminary inquiry officer. Assess safety, mental health, and self-harm risk indicators. Consult the staff judge advocate if questions arise about search authority, privacy, or potential criminal misconduct.
- Phase III (no later than 48 hours after discovery): Make a status determination. Presume involuntary unless a preponderance of evidence supports voluntary. If voluntary, process as UA. If involuntary or evidence is insufficient, report as Duty Status-Whereabouts Unknown (DUSTWUN) and initiate casualty reporting. If self-harm risk is present and the Marine is not found, strongly consider DUSTWUN even if other evidence leans voluntary.
Document everything in the NAVMC 10132, NAVMC 118(11), or as part of the relevant investigation or administrative record.
Key dates
- Effective immediately upon publication (10 April 2026)
- Phase I actions: within 3 hours of discovering the absence
- Phase II complete: no later than 24 hours after discovery
- Phase III determination: no later than 48 hours after discovery
The official version
Full guidance is in MARADMIN 170/26. The reserve-specific overlay lives in MCO 1001R.1L W/CH 2 (MCRAMM). For questions, contact the MRA Secretariat POC at christopher.mertins@usmc.mil or 703-432-9176. Deserter Information Point: deserter_information_point@usmc.mil or 703-604-0395.
This is written by a reservist, for reservists. It is not an official publication of HQMC or MARFORRES. Always verify guidance with your command or unit S-1 before acting on any article or summary.