The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) sent a memo to chief human capital officers reminding agencies of available leave flexibility options in advance of the U.S. Army’s upcoming 250th birthday celebration taking place in Washington, DC next week.
The memo states:
To help alleviate traffic congestion, prevent disruptions to preparation activities, and minimize any distractions to law enforcement and security officials, the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is reminding agencies of their authority to approve situational/unscheduled telework and other workforce flexibilities for impacted employees at their sole discretion. Agencies may also approve employee requests to use their alternative work schedule day off, annual leave, or other authorized time off.
The celebration is not until Saturday, June 14, 2025, but OPM said in the memo that it anticipates traffic problems stemming from the event to begin on Wednesday, June 11.
It goes on to remind federal employees that they need to allow more time than usual when commuting next week. The memo states:
Beginning on June 11, 2025, employees reporting to a worksite in Washington, DC, should allow extra time for travel to and from work whether by private vehicle or public transportation. Employees should monitor local news media for any announcements on street closures for vehicular and pedestrian traffic and/or disruptions to public transportation. Agencies should use all communications tools they have in place to inform employees of any relevant, agency-specific issues.
About the Army’s 250th Birthday Celebration
The event is being held to commemorate the date of the founding of the United States Army on June 14, 1775. It is free and open to the public on the National Mall in Washington, DC.
The theme is “This We’ll Defend,” the Army’s motto since the Revolutionary War. It is intended to be a reminder that the Army’s purpose is timeless and clear: to fight and win our nation’s wars.
Among the scheduled events are opportunities to interact with soldiers, watch military demonstrations, explore equipment displays, live music, a parade, and a fireworks show.
