Is there a way for Service Members to get insurance coverage for the gear (I'm thinking of OCIE) they are issued by their unit?

2023-11-25T22:23:31-05:00

I'm referring to stuff like a rucksack, assault packs, load-bearing vest, combat helmet, etc. You get to your duty station, and as part of your inprocessing you often get various types of equipment issued to you, which is technically property of the US government. Is there any way today to get insurance coverage for damage/loss of that equipment? Hopefully you see what I am trying to ask here. Is this something that you think would be compelling for service members, if for example they could pay a monthly premium of $10-$15 to cover $2,000 worth of equipment that they would be required to return? Thanks in advance!

Response by COL Randall C. made Nov 26 at 2023 7:45 AM

2023-11-26T07:45:51-05:00

Coverage of personal items for theft, destruction, and sometimes loss through negligence is frequently covered by a homeowners or rental policy. What isn't common is coverage of professional equipment and/or equipment that you are responsible for, but don't personally own.

However, the "military oriented" insurance policies frequently have some riders that cover military equipment and uniforms and may (or may not) have limitations on that coverage. One of the best in this regards is USAA.

Their home or renters insurance will cover the military uniforms and equipment in the event of damage, theft, vandalism and non-negligence loss. They even have a war clause that covers it if it was damaged, destroyed, or abandoned due to war (although the military SHOULD hold you not liable in that case). The icing on the cake is if you're on active duty (or reserve drill, AT, etc.) then they wave the deductible.