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> 7-4.
Split training option (STO)
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a. STO is an alternative training program designed to recruit and train students and seasonal employees that do not
have enough time to complete BCT/AIT or OSUT during their initial IET tour. STO allows Soldiers to enter and
complete the first portion of training (STO 1 = BCT portion), return to their civilian education or occupation, and
come back the following year to complete the second portion of training (STO 2 = AIT or MOS portion of OSUT).
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b. Mandatory release dates (MRDs) are management tools to ensure that STO 1 Soldiers are properly processed for
training. MRDs are determined at the Soldier's home station and are published in the additional instruction section of
their active duty orders. It is critical to consider a STO 1 Soldier's MRD when scheduling entry into training.
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> 7-5.
STO early releases
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a. Policies pertaining to MRDs are:
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(1) All STO 1 Soldiers are guaranteed a return to home of record for civilian education or employment
commitments on a predetermined date.
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(2) The STO 2 Soldiers are not guaranteed a MRD for civilian education or employment purposes as part of
the enlistment contract. Individuals returning for STO 2 are expected to remain on active duty until training is
completed and a MOS is awarded.
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b. To preclude STO 1 individuals from being placed in training with insufficient time to complete the course,
accomplish the following steps at the installation:
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(1) Screen all STO 1 Soldiers prior to the start of training to determine if there are conflicts between the length
of training and anticipated release date. Orders must provide at least 75 days to complete training.
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(2) Refer individuals identified as having a conflict to ARNG or USAR liaison personnel for assistance in
conflict resolution. Liaison personnel will contact the appropriate agency to resolve the conflict and obtain an
extension of training time.
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(3) When it is impossible to obtain an extension to complete training and course acceleration is not feasible,
ARNG and USAR liaison personnel will amend or request the order to be amended and return the individual to the
parent RC unit. Do not enter individuals in this category into training.
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(4) Should liaison personnel encounter a refusal to amend the order of an individual with insufficient time to
complete the required training, notify TRADOC IMT- CoE (ATCG-MT), 210 Dillon Circle, Fort Eustis, VA
23604-5701 for assistance in obtaining a release.