Possible reimbursement from airline?

Question

Im am in the military stationed in Okinawa Japan. I was scheduled to go home on leave on June 2nd 2008 but I was deprived of the opportunity due to a mandatory event I had to attend in my Command. I had purchased and paid for my ticket in full prior to that date. I found out a week before that I could no go on leave and I called my travel agent and they told me that I MUST pay $500 to change my travel date. I paid the money and I am scheduled to fly out on the 17th of June. I am flying with China Airlines. Is their any way to get reimbursed that $500 that I paid? Being that there was no way that I could have gotten out of my military duties without being charged?

I appreciate any help that you might have to offer.

Answer 1

I would imagine if you contacted the airline directly, they might be willing to waive the rebooking fee due to your military service.