When my hubby was in the military and decided to retire, we did not live in the city where we had planned on living. Because he had in excess of 20 years, thankfully, the military paid for our move. However, I agree that Mr. Leslie's move should NEVER have been reimbursed and anyone of a "lower rank" would not have passed the "smell test" I'm sure. This is taking a benefit way too liberally (pardon the pun) and some adjustments need to be made. A move to across town was not the intended purpose of this benefit, I don't care how many years you were in the Service and whomever approved it should be reprimanded. If the rules allowed for it, then they need to be changed. An exception might be someone retiring but living in military accommodations and having to move out into a civilian accommodation in the same place. Other than that, getting payment for a move within the same city just because they can, to me is unconscionable.
JMHO
JMHO