Just for the record, State can't stop an American from travelling to a specific country, they only publish recommendations (they can take away a passport but that would prohibit travel to most countries). While there's a ban on official Americans from going to Mindanao (and other restricted areas) except on business, Joe Blow can go if he wishes. Military people come and go from here on vacation all the time. They need to follow regular channels to do so and may not go to Mindanao (or other restricted areas) while on R&R.