If two enlisted members are dating, what must one do if they start a program to become an officer?

When one member of a couple has aspirations to become an officer, the dynamics of their relationship change significantly due to the military's policies on fraternization and the expectations surrounding officer conduct. When one enlisted member begins a program to become an officer, there is a potential conflict of interest that could arise from their dating relationship.

The requirement for the couple to either terminate the relationship or marry stems from the military's efforts to maintain professionalism and prevent any appearance of favoritism or impropriety that could arise in a command structure where one person is in a leadership role while the other is not. This guideline ensures that all personnel uphold the integrity of the unit and maintain the standards expected of commissioned officers.

Thus, the correct course of action under these circumstances is for the couple to reevaluate their relationship status in light of the new professional responsibilities and expectations that come with the transition to an officer role.