Leave requests in Navy units: how processed?

• A. Submit directly to the human resources department.
• B. Leave requests are approved by the department head only.
• C. Leave requests are handled through a third-party contractor.
• D. Personnel submit through the chain of command; approvals flow from the division officer to the department head and up to the XO/CO as required.

Answer: (D)

Leave requests are managed through the chain of command to keep manpower properly scheduled and to maintain accountability. Start by submitting the request through your immediate supervisor in your division (the division officer). That officer reviews it and forwards it to the department head for action. If the leave is of a duration or type requiring higher authority, the approval then moves up to the executive officer and, when appropriate, the commanding officer. This flow ensures the unit can cover duties, assess any impact on missions, and keep official records accurate. Submitting directly to HR or a third party skips the command structure, and having only the department head approve would bypass necessary checks. The XO/CO involvement is reserved for higher-level approvals as required by policy and leave type.