What date is used as the basis for determining creditable service for medical or dental officer special pays?

The basis for determining creditable service for medical or dental officer special pays is the officer's commissioning date. This date is significant because it marks the official start of an officer's service in the military, establishing the timeline for eligibility and calculations related to various benefits, including special pays. Medical and dental officers typically receive special pay based on the length of their service, and the commissioning date serves as the anchor point for that duration. Other factors such as active duty assignments, promotions, or current roles may influence other aspects of an officer's career, but the commissioning date specifically is what counts for special pay calculations in this context.