[Reduced-Rate Per Diem for Temporary Duty in Saudi Arabia: Availability of Meals]

The Army requested a decision regarding whether it should: (1) require civilian employees to take government meals while on temporary duty in Saudi Arabia; and (2) increase per diem for employees who did not eat at the provided mess facilities. The Army advised that it had authorized per diem in excess of the authorized amount to pay for meals and food purchased elsewhere, based on the employees' amended travel orders. GAO held that the employees were not entitled to excess per diem since: (1) they requested the amended travel orders for their own convenience; and (2) none of the employees submitted a valid statement of nonavailability of meals from the commanding officer at their temporary duty station. Accordingly, the per diem paid in excess of the authorized rates should be recouped.