As you know, on June 26, 2013, the Supreme Court held unconstitutional Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), which prohibited federal recognition of same-sex spouses/marriages. The President then directed the Attorney General to establish an Executive Branch-wide process to guide federal agencies as they implement the ruling. The Corps has been working hard to make the same benefits available to all spouses, regardless of whether they are in same-sex or opposite-sex marriages and will recognize all marriages that are valid in the place of celebration. Effective immediately and to the extent possible consistent with DoD, the Corps is extending all spousal benefits to same-sex spouses and these entitlements are retroactive to the date of marriage or the date of the Supreme Court ruling, June 26, 2013, whichever is later. Any claims to entitlements before that date will not be granted. Adding a same-sex spouse follows the same procedures as adding an opposite-sex spouse. Valid documentation, e.g., a legal marriage certificate, is required and must be scanned for proof of eligibility for RAPIDS/DEERS benefits.

Thank you for your patience on this issue.

With Pride,



RADM Scott Giberson
Deputy Surgeon General (Acting)
Chief Professional Officer, Pharmacy
U.S. Public Health Service