You can either work up the chain of command until you reach someone who will study the problem until it takes care of itself, or you can bring a little light from above.
We both know that the congressman probably doesn’t care what the final decision is in most cases, but the congressional will ensure that new sets of eyes look at the problem. The congressman is going to get a response, and someone will have to prepare a report to go to the person who will have to sign off on the response.
You may not end up with the response you want, but the problem will reach a decision maker.
Of course, you have to make the initial decision that you are willing to pay the price that may come with taking a course of action.
This is an EVERYDAY situation to those who deal with such requests. There is a process for emergency leave. The CO, his XO, the CLO, the CMS, and the Command OMBUDSMAN will all know these details inside and out.
The congressman will in most cases get a letter, referencing all of the appropriate rules and regulations, and an assurance that the situation is being handled correctly, appropriately, and within the jurisdiction of the CO.
What I have not seen from MarineMom:
Confirmation that the ill lady idoes in fact meet the definition of 'In Loco Parentis' as defined in the MILPERSMAN,
Confirmation that his presence would materially affect the condition of the ill lady, and
Confirmation that leave has even been rquested by the service member himself, as opposed to a request from MarineMom that he come home.
In the end, if the CO makes a determination that operational readiness and/or ongoing operations supercede the desire of the service member of his family to come home, then it remains his decision to make.
The congressman has no authority to intervene and can only cause unnecessary paperwork and hassle to the Marine Unit in question.
Just because someone told you that calling the Congressman/Senator etc. is a good idea doesn't mean it is true. It's a bad idea that will waste effort, energy, and emotional stress on the part of MarineMom, and it will do nothing to help the situation. I speak from experience and expertise in this area. I tried to help - if people don't want the right answer they can continue to sit in the dark all they wish.