An analysis of enlisted early separations under the Air Force's and Navy's VSI/SSB programs: a comparative study

Abstract

This thesis investigates the behavior of Air Force enlisted personnel who were eligible for early voluntary separation under one of two monetary incentive programs during FY92. The two programs were the VSI (Voluntary Separation Incentive) and the SSB (Special Separation Bonus). The thesis uses data provided by the Defense Manpower Data Center on eligible enlisted Air Force personnel for FY92. The objectives of the thesis are: (1) to identify the factors that influence the voluntary separation decision; (2) to identify the factors that influence the choice decision between the two programs; and (3) to compare FY92 Air Force results in this thesis with FY92 Navy results to determine if the same factors are consistent for both branches. Multivariate logit models were estimated to explain the decision to accept a voluntary separation incentive and the decision, among acceptors, of which program to accept. Recommendations regarding future implementation of the separation programs and for. future research are provided.