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                              March 31, 1997
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                             GSBCA 13666-RELO


                       In the Matter of EUGENE LEONG


    Eugene Leong, Waipahu, HI, Claimant.

    Wendy Nakata, Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard, Pearl Harbor, HI,
appearing for Department of Defense.

VERGILIO, Board Judge.

    The claimant, Eugene Leong, a civilian employee of the
Department of Defense who left Government employment during the
relevant period, had been hired under an overseas transportation
agreement which entitled him to separation travel.  On July 2,
1993, he retired or resigned.  He received extensions to delay his
separation travel for a total of two years, the maximum permitted
by regulation.  The agency denied his latest request for a further
extension.  The agency has correctly concluded that the claimant is
not entitled to a further extension.

    With the claimant's resignation/retirement, occurring on July
2, 1993, the agency authorized separation travel (and movement of
household goods and a car) for return from overseas.  The agency
twice provided extensions, with a final not to exceed date for
completion of movement of July 2, 1995.  After July 2, 1995, the
claimant requested a further extension.  The agency denied the
request, because it lacked authority under the applicable Joint
Travel Regulations (JTR), paragraph C4202-2 (May 1, 1989).

    The JTR specifies that commanding officers may authorize a
delay of return travel for a reasonable period, with ninety
calendar days normally considered a reasonable period of time for
the delay.  Unusual extenuating circumstances may warrant a longer
period of delay; however, transportation may be delayed only up to
two years from the date of separation.  JTR C4202.

    The claimant has delayed beyond two years after his
separation.  The claimant has raised medical and other personal
reasons which are not relevant to the determination.  The agency
acted in accordance with regulation in denying the requested
extension.


    
                                    ____________________________
                                         JOSEPH A. VERGILIO
                                         Board Judge