Early 2020, right before COVID hit (which caused my HHG to get delayed until late Summer). MILPERSMAN 1910-812 is the relevant instruction, specifically paragraphs 4 and 5 (which has the short list of alternate separation locations). I called the PERSO at Pensacola, referenced the instruction and asked nicely if they could support me. I then had to deal with the SWO-minded Sixth Fleet PSD, which may have been an uphill battle but I came armed with the printed out (and highlighted) instruction, along with the PERSO's contact info. I essentially did the legwork for them, which made it a lot harder to give me the brush off. Just because it's not the typical thing they usually do doesn't mean "No" is a valid answer...especially when it's specifically authorized.
*Link provided for the Bubbas who may be in a similar situation soon:
https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Reference/MILPERSMAN/1000/1900Separation/1910-812.pdf?ver=1srkdYWUPjBAUkoV0pwrEg==