US military halting domestic travel amid virus
In this March 27, 2008 file photo, the Pentagon is seen in this aerial view in Washington. [AP/Charles Dharapak, File]
The U.S. Defense Department is planning to halt all domestic travel for military members after President Donald Trump declared the coronavirus pandemic a national emergency.
The Pentagon says Deputy Defense Secretary David Norquist has approved new travel restrictions on service members and Defense Department civilians assigned to military installations and surrounding areas within the United States and its territories.
The new guidance takes effect Monday and last through May 11. The Pentagon says it will "halt all domestic travel, including Permanent Change of Station and Temporary Duty."
Service members will be authorized local leave only, although the Pentagon says exemptions may be granted "for compelling cases."
The Defense Department has also suspended "unofficial visits" to the Pentagon and other facilities in the Washington area.