What requirement must be met for changes to a service member's official assignment?

The requirement for changes to a service member's official assignment is the submission of a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) order. This is the formal documentation that authorizes the transfer of a service member from one duty station to another and outlines the specifics of the move, including the location, date, and other essential details regarding the assignment.

PCS orders are crucial in ensuring that the move is officially recognized and that the service member is eligible for any associated benefits or entitlements that come with such a change, such as travel allowances and housing adjustments. Without this official order, any changes to a service member's assignment would not be recognized within the military system, which stresses the importance of proper documentation for maintaining accurate personnel records and ensuring smooth transitions in military assignments.