[Claim for Reimbursement of Travel Expenses]

A Customs Service employee appealed a Claims Group denial of his claim for travel expenses incurred upon return to his permanent duty station from a temporary assignment. The employee was obliged to return to his permanent station before the temporary assignment had been completed because a family illness required his presence. GAO noted that when an employee abandons a temporary assignment for personal reasons, the travel expenses usually will not be paid by the Government, unless the employee substantially completes the required duties at the temporary assignment. Customs determined that the employee did not complete his assignment, and GAO would not disturb the determination because it was not shown to be improper or unjustified. Accordingly, the Claims Group's denial of the claim was sustained.