Effect of Special Duty Assignments on Enlisted Marines' Performance and Retention

Abstract

There has been limited research on the impact of special duty assignment (SDA) on enlisted Marine performance, promotion, and retention. As the Marine Corps increases its focus on talent management and improving the education and training of its force, it is important to understand how the current SDA policy affects its enlisted force. This study analyzed personnel records and performance data from 2009–2021, using econometric methods to match SDA Marines to non-SDA Marines who share similar characteristics. Event study and multiple fixed-effect regression analyses determined the effect that being assigned an SDA has on the job performance and human capital attainment of enlisted Marines within the study. The results indicate SDA Marines are retained and promoted at a higher rate than non-SDA Marines, while also receiving significantly lower job performance markings. During their assignment, SDA Marines received fitness reports averaging 1.3 relative value points lower than their non-SDA peers, with this gap continuing until two years post-SDA. Additionally, SDA Marines’ personal education attainment grew at a slower rate in comparison to non-SDA Marines. Based on these findings, it is recommended the Marine Corps continue to seek highly qualified Marines to pursue SDA billets, while prioritizing the retention and promotion of its highest performing Marines regardless of their SDA status.