US Army unit offers GTA VI leave to encourage reenlistment

A US Army unit at Fort Stewart, Georgia, is using the upcoming release of the video game Grand Theft Auto VI as a unique incentive for soldiers to reenlist. The 9th Brigade Engineer Battalion, part of the 3rd Infantry Division, is offering a special four-day pass to active-duty soldiers who commit to an additional two to six years of service.

The incentive is designed to coincide with the game’s expected release on November 19, 2026. According to Lieutenant Colonel Angel Tomko, a spokesperson for the 3rd Infantry Division, the program aims to create a creative incentive system that connects with the interests of the troops. The initiative was proposed by a new career counselor within the battalion to help meet reenlistment goals for the 2027 fiscal year.

As of recent reports, 20 out of 130 eligible soldiers have already accepted the offer. To qualify, soldiers must sign their new contracts between August 1 and November 14, 2026. While the program is currently limited to this specific battalion, military leadership has previously used various methods, including financial bonuses and location changes, to encourage long-term service.