I have a feeling im gonna get my balls busted over this but here we go. I have a question that i hope i can get answered here from someone with experience. If i join the army is the pay worth it? do you make good money while overseas in combat? family have good benefits (wife,son)? If something were to happen to me are they taking care of? does army pay for your college if you have already graduated? dont want it to seem like the only reason i wanna join is for the money and all other good stuff like benefits but thats a big part of it.
ARMY?
- Thread starter john4jackson
- Start date
Re: ARMY?
pay is nothin special but in this day and age its a steady pay check with no chance of them saying we are gonna have to let you go. Benefits are good, wife and son will have Tricare so they will be taken care of medically and dentally. the dental sucks though, if something were to happen to you, they would be taken care of via the SGLI which i believe is 70K within 72 hours of something happening to you, and 300K after that. Im almost postive the #s are wrong but yes they will be taken care of
pay is nothin special but in this day and age its a steady pay check with no chance of them saying we are gonna have to let you go. Benefits are good, wife and son will have Tricare so they will be taken care of medically and dentally. the dental sucks though, if something were to happen to you, they would be taken care of via the SGLI which i believe is 70K within 72 hours of something happening to you, and 300K after that. Im almost postive the #s are wrong but yes they will be taken care of
Re: ARMY?
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I have a feeling im gonna get my balls busted over this but here we go.</div></div> Of course you are.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> I have a question that i hope i can get answered here from someone with experience. If i join the army is the pay worth it? do you make good money while overseas in combat? </div></div>
The pay is fair -- perhaps not what you're worth, but it is Uncle's promise you're going to get paid for the service and time you serve. If you are already a college graduate you may come in as a Private First Class or possibly a Specialist -- you may also be eligible for Officer Candidate's School. If you are an enlisted man then your pay while in the combat zone is tax-free. You get family separation allowance for any deployments/separations from your family exceeding 30 days. You'll get a housing allowance or on-post quarters for your family, and a small allowance for meals/groceries (nowhere near what it costs to feed a family, but better than nothing).
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">family have good benefits (wife,son)? If something were to happen to me are they taking care of? </div></div> Your wife may attend certain college or training classes free. Your family will be covered under Tricare health insurance and Delta dental plan. Not great but not bad. Should you die they would be paid an immediate death payment, and as Army finance settles your accounts they'll get your accrued pays, allowances, and leave. Serviceman's Group Life Insurance is now up to $400,000. They would also qualify for VA and Social Security Survivor benefits. Your 9-11 GI Bill may transfer to pay for college for either your wife or children.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">does army pay for your college if you have already graduated?</div></div> It depends if you're enlisting under the Army college pay-off enlistment option. I had a kid in Okinawa who the Army paid off his law school loans. Tuition assistance would pay for any off-duty schooling you choose, while after you get out VA Post 9-11 GI Bill could pay for another degree if you choose not to pass it to your wife or kid(s) (Masters, Professional Planner, Ph.D, JD, MD, DDS, etc.).
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">dont want it to seem like the only reason i wanna join is for the money and all other good stuff like benefits but thats a big part of it.</div></div> It's your life decision -- big boy rules apply.
I am retiring this summer after 31+ years in the Army. I'd do it again.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I have a feeling im gonna get my balls busted over this but here we go.</div></div> Of course you are.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> I have a question that i hope i can get answered here from someone with experience. If i join the army is the pay worth it? do you make good money while overseas in combat? </div></div>
The pay is fair -- perhaps not what you're worth, but it is Uncle's promise you're going to get paid for the service and time you serve. If you are already a college graduate you may come in as a Private First Class or possibly a Specialist -- you may also be eligible for Officer Candidate's School. If you are an enlisted man then your pay while in the combat zone is tax-free. You get family separation allowance for any deployments/separations from your family exceeding 30 days. You'll get a housing allowance or on-post quarters for your family, and a small allowance for meals/groceries (nowhere near what it costs to feed a family, but better than nothing).
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">family have good benefits (wife,son)? If something were to happen to me are they taking care of? </div></div> Your wife may attend certain college or training classes free. Your family will be covered under Tricare health insurance and Delta dental plan. Not great but not bad. Should you die they would be paid an immediate death payment, and as Army finance settles your accounts they'll get your accrued pays, allowances, and leave. Serviceman's Group Life Insurance is now up to $400,000. They would also qualify for VA and Social Security Survivor benefits. Your 9-11 GI Bill may transfer to pay for college for either your wife or children.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">does army pay for your college if you have already graduated?</div></div> It depends if you're enlisting under the Army college pay-off enlistment option. I had a kid in Okinawa who the Army paid off his law school loans. Tuition assistance would pay for any off-duty schooling you choose, while after you get out VA Post 9-11 GI Bill could pay for another degree if you choose not to pass it to your wife or kid(s) (Masters, Professional Planner, Ph.D, JD, MD, DDS, etc.).
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">dont want it to seem like the only reason i wanna join is for the money and all other good stuff like benefits but thats a big part of it.</div></div> It's your life decision -- big boy rules apply.
I am retiring this summer after 31+ years in the Army. I'd do it again.
Re: ARMY?
I was in the Army a while back and recently just re-enlisted. They are reducing me back to an E3 so here is the breakdown for me.
Pay for married E3 with 6 years TIS
Base pay - $1923
Housing Allowance - $1893 (varies by location)
Subsistence Allowance - $324 (also called "Separate Rations", it's for food)
Total is $4140 per month before taxes. This is for a married E3 living in San Diego.
Keep in mind if, when I get to my duty station, I live in base houseing, I will not get the "housing allowance".
Here is a good website: http://www.military.com/benefits/military-pay/calculator?ESRC=dod.nl
I was in the Army a while back and recently just re-enlisted. They are reducing me back to an E3 so here is the breakdown for me.
Pay for married E3 with 6 years TIS
Base pay - $1923
Housing Allowance - $1893 (varies by location)
Subsistence Allowance - $324 (also called "Separate Rations", it's for food)
Total is $4140 per month before taxes. This is for a married E3 living in San Diego.
Keep in mind if, when I get to my duty station, I live in base houseing, I will not get the "housing allowance".
Here is a good website: http://www.military.com/benefits/military-pay/calculator?ESRC=dod.nl
Re: ARMY?
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: JACKSON.260</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I have a feeling im gonna get my balls busted over this but here we go. I have a question that i hope i can get answered here from someone with experience. If i join the army is the pay worth it? do you make good money while overseas in combat? family have good benefits (wife,son)? If something were to happen to me are they taking care of? does army pay for your college if you have already graduated? dont want it to seem like the only reason i wanna join is for the money and all other good stuff like benefits but thats a big part of it.
</div></div>
Pay- sometimes yes, sometimes no. Depends on your style of living and what you need to be happy and comfortable. Here is a link to monthly pay (this does not count the living stipend aka BAH nor the food stipend aka BAS) http://usmilitary.about.com/od/fy2010paycharts/a/basicpayenl.htm
BAS is umm 273? a month. I cant remember what it was. BAH is zip code dependent. Let me stress this: you do NOT get more money per kid. You can have one wife and no kids or 9 kids and 3 wives and you get paid the same amount. Only single guys with no dependents make less. BAH does and will cover housing, if you live in military housing its going to all be taken away and you are left with base pay and BAS only. If you live off post- you can still have a little left over if you are frugal. When you first come in, wife will most definitely want to be working if you wish to have any extra cash flow.
The Army does have the College Loan Repayment Program but there are stipulations for it. I've been away from the Recruiting days for a while now and can't remember the specifics (Hemet,CA didnt see too many degree holders anyway). Do you have a Bachelors? If so, you will come in at paygrade E4. Associates- generally E3, and various other certs/degrees vary.
As far as something happening: $100k within 72 hours, and $400,000 either lump sum or spread out for a period of time. Pretty sure it's taxed too but don't quote me on that.
Benefits for family- "tax free"shopping at the px (though they manage to raise the price to be the same as if it was taxed- walmart has better deals), dental/medical, and all the speaker projected bugle calls they can handle if you live on post.
If you have any specific questions, I am more than willing to answer but as I don't know your situation, I suggest seeing a current recruiter and making sure you are qualified first. I would prefer to confirm/deny what the recruiter says than answer all your questions- it is his job after all.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: JACKSON.260</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I have a feeling im gonna get my balls busted over this but here we go. I have a question that i hope i can get answered here from someone with experience. If i join the army is the pay worth it? do you make good money while overseas in combat? family have good benefits (wife,son)? If something were to happen to me are they taking care of? does army pay for your college if you have already graduated? dont want it to seem like the only reason i wanna join is for the money and all other good stuff like benefits but thats a big part of it.
</div></div>
Pay- sometimes yes, sometimes no. Depends on your style of living and what you need to be happy and comfortable. Here is a link to monthly pay (this does not count the living stipend aka BAH nor the food stipend aka BAS) http://usmilitary.about.com/od/fy2010paycharts/a/basicpayenl.htm
BAS is umm 273? a month. I cant remember what it was. BAH is zip code dependent. Let me stress this: you do NOT get more money per kid. You can have one wife and no kids or 9 kids and 3 wives and you get paid the same amount. Only single guys with no dependents make less. BAH does and will cover housing, if you live in military housing its going to all be taken away and you are left with base pay and BAS only. If you live off post- you can still have a little left over if you are frugal. When you first come in, wife will most definitely want to be working if you wish to have any extra cash flow.
The Army does have the College Loan Repayment Program but there are stipulations for it. I've been away from the Recruiting days for a while now and can't remember the specifics (Hemet,CA didnt see too many degree holders anyway). Do you have a Bachelors? If so, you will come in at paygrade E4. Associates- generally E3, and various other certs/degrees vary.
As far as something happening: $100k within 72 hours, and $400,000 either lump sum or spread out for a period of time. Pretty sure it's taxed too but don't quote me on that.
Benefits for family- "tax free"shopping at the px (though they manage to raise the price to be the same as if it was taxed- walmart has better deals), dental/medical, and all the speaker projected bugle calls they can handle if you live on post.
If you have any specific questions, I am more than willing to answer but as I don't know your situation, I suggest seeing a current recruiter and making sure you are qualified first. I would prefer to confirm/deny what the recruiter says than answer all your questions- it is his job after all.
Re: ARMY?
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Onemoretime</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
Keep in mind if, when I get to my duty station, I live in base houseing, I will not get the "housing allowance".
</div></div>
Not sure when you were last in but now they "give" you BAH and then take it right back for on post housing.
I think .Mil housing is generally a bad idea.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Onemoretime</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
Keep in mind if, when I get to my duty station, I live in base houseing, I will not get the "housing allowance".
</div></div>
Not sure when you were last in but now they "give" you BAH and then take it right back for on post housing.
I think .Mil housing is generally a bad idea.
Re: ARMY?
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Cavscout1983</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Onemoretime</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
Keep in mind if, when I get to my duty station, I live in base houseing, I will not get the "housing allowance".
</div></div>
Not sure when you were last in but now they "give" you BAH and then take it right back for on post housing.
I think .Mil housing is generally a bad idea. </div></div>
So, they show it on your LES but in a "nutshell" you don't get it... right?
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Cavscout1983</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Onemoretime</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
Keep in mind if, when I get to my duty station, I live in base houseing, I will not get the "housing allowance".
</div></div>
Not sure when you were last in but now they "give" you BAH and then take it right back for on post housing.
I think .Mil housing is generally a bad idea. </div></div>
So, they show it on your LES but in a "nutshell" you don't get it... right?
Re: ARMY?
Correct. On the other hand, many posts and bases now have privatized and new housing -- house or duplex units built within the last 5 years that rival anything you would find or buy off-base.
If you were to buy a house off-post you could apply your Basic Allowance for Housing to your mortgage (in other words use your allowance to literally help pay for your house, while getting home owner tax benefits).
Correct. On the other hand, many posts and bases now have privatized and new housing -- house or duplex units built within the last 5 years that rival anything you would find or buy off-base.
If you were to buy a house off-post you could apply your Basic Allowance for Housing to your mortgage (in other words use your allowance to literally help pay for your house, while getting home owner tax benefits).
Re: ARMY?
Everything said already looks good to me. Although Deadly's post on SGLI makes me wonder if the USMC has a lower limit than the Army.
The way I see it, the Army will not make you rich, but military service comes with benefits that are hard to find anywhere else and I'm not talking about healthcare or anything in your LES.
If you do your part you can have a exciting, rewarding, unique experience while in the service and be financially comfortable doing it.
Everything said already looks good to me. Although Deadly's post on SGLI makes me wonder if the USMC has a lower limit than the Army.
The way I see it, the Army will not make you rich, but military service comes with benefits that are hard to find anywhere else and I'm not talking about healthcare or anything in your LES.
If you do your part you can have a exciting, rewarding, unique experience while in the service and be financially comfortable doing it.
Re: ARMY?
February 16, 2010, 2:44 pm
It’s the Economy, Soldier
By TIM HSIA
Brendan McDermid/Reuters The United States Armed Forces Recruiting Station in New York’s Times Square.
The recession has greatly altered the American political and social landscape, but one of the few segments in society that has not been affected is the military.
In fact, the bad economy has aided recruiting and retention for the military. This comes as no surprise, given that service members are keenly aware of the uncertain economic environment outside the military.
With unemployment affecting one in five men in the United States between the ages of 25 to 54, staying in the military and dealing with the risk of another deployment becomes all the more palatable in comparison to being unemployed.
Today this seems to no longer be the case, and the dark economic times have changed many civilians’ attitudes.
My previous unit’s re-enlistment non-commissioned officer told me that he noticed there had been a jump in re-enlistments after we returned from a deployment. He found this surprising because re-enlistments in a combat zone are often given additional cash bonuses and are tax-free, so it would make more sense for a soldier to re-enlist while deployed. What was even more surprising to him was that the soldiers who were re-enlisting were often those who, while deployed, would insist to him that they were set on leaving the military.
He told me that the deciding factor was the influence of spouses, and financial concerns that were not fully considered during the deployment itself. “The same soldiers who swore that they would never set foot in my office are suddenly in my office once we are back from the deployment, and when they come, they are often accompanied with their wives. These wives realize that the economy is rough and that finding a job will be difficult, and so they push their husbands to reconsider leaving the military,” he said.
The relative prestige associated with serving in the military, and the high costs of college tuition which can be offset by the new G.I. Bill are added reasons for society’s shifting view on military service.
When I graduated high school in 2000, I could count on one hand the number of classmates who had decided to join the military. The economy was on autopilot and the American dream of owning a house and finding a good career was something every classmate believed was attainable.
Read Forbes: America’s Best College
Recently a fellow high school classmate with a college degree spoke with me about the military. Since graduating college, he had struggled to find a job and I could tell that he was really drawn to the idea of a steady paycheck and the possibility of learning a trade.
Perhaps the most telling evidence that the economy has changed people’s attitudes toward the military is when Forbes considers West Point to be its top university, partly because its graduates have no student loans hanging over them.
After this conversation with my high school classmate — and after also contemplating whether to stay in the military — I gradually came to the realization that among my peers I am fortunate.
Read: It’s the Economy, Undergraduate by Wes Morgan
While I was deployed I felt, and wrote, sentiments similar to those voiced by some in a recent post by Wes Morgan concerning disenchantment toward civilians for their lack of concern over the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Now, after being back in the United States for almost a year, I have come to believe that it’s not for the lack of caring that Americans are not more involved with the war, rather that there are more pressing and immediate concerns like employment prospects, mortgages, and providing for their families.
Moreover, what does that vague term “involvement” mean? Perhaps the most involved one can be is by pasting a yellow ribbon bumper sticker on a car or taking a moment of silence when reading about the death of a soldier. Or is a sense of involvement impossible, and perhaps the only reason I am so absorbed with the military is because of the simple fact that I wear the uniform every day?
Any anger or resentment toward citizens who cannot locate Baghdad or Kabul on a map is unjustified because it is impossible to be more “involved” in the war than being an educated taxpaying citizen. When the government is struggling and debating freezes on spending, it is perhaps unfair to ask Americans to do anymore than simply continue supporting the military with their tax dollars. Moreover, I’m sure that many Americans are ambivalent about how their tax dollars are spent in terms of national defense considering the many blunders related to major weapon projects.
For my parents, siblings, and civilian friends, life’s demands are greater than just reading every factoid concerning the latest suicide bomber attack.
While I still believe that many Americans are completely oblivious to the suffering and pain of people overseas, this does not mean that I should be resentful of this innocence. Rather I should count my blessings and hope that the violence which entraps the people of Afghanistan and Iraq never reaches the shores of this country.
Capt. Tim Hsia is an active duty infantry captain serving in the United States Army. The views expressed in this blog are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Army, Department of Defense, or the United States government. We welcome your comments.
http://atwar.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/02/1...dier&st=cse
February 16, 2010, 2:44 pm
It’s the Economy, Soldier
By TIM HSIA
Brendan McDermid/Reuters The United States Armed Forces Recruiting Station in New York’s Times Square.
The recession has greatly altered the American political and social landscape, but one of the few segments in society that has not been affected is the military.
In fact, the bad economy has aided recruiting and retention for the military. This comes as no surprise, given that service members are keenly aware of the uncertain economic environment outside the military.
With unemployment affecting one in five men in the United States between the ages of 25 to 54, staying in the military and dealing with the risk of another deployment becomes all the more palatable in comparison to being unemployed.
Today this seems to no longer be the case, and the dark economic times have changed many civilians’ attitudes.
My previous unit’s re-enlistment non-commissioned officer told me that he noticed there had been a jump in re-enlistments after we returned from a deployment. He found this surprising because re-enlistments in a combat zone are often given additional cash bonuses and are tax-free, so it would make more sense for a soldier to re-enlist while deployed. What was even more surprising to him was that the soldiers who were re-enlisting were often those who, while deployed, would insist to him that they were set on leaving the military.
He told me that the deciding factor was the influence of spouses, and financial concerns that were not fully considered during the deployment itself. “The same soldiers who swore that they would never set foot in my office are suddenly in my office once we are back from the deployment, and when they come, they are often accompanied with their wives. These wives realize that the economy is rough and that finding a job will be difficult, and so they push their husbands to reconsider leaving the military,” he said.
The relative prestige associated with serving in the military, and the high costs of college tuition which can be offset by the new G.I. Bill are added reasons for society’s shifting view on military service.
When I graduated high school in 2000, I could count on one hand the number of classmates who had decided to join the military. The economy was on autopilot and the American dream of owning a house and finding a good career was something every classmate believed was attainable.
Read Forbes: America’s Best College
Recently a fellow high school classmate with a college degree spoke with me about the military. Since graduating college, he had struggled to find a job and I could tell that he was really drawn to the idea of a steady paycheck and the possibility of learning a trade.
Perhaps the most telling evidence that the economy has changed people’s attitudes toward the military is when Forbes considers West Point to be its top university, partly because its graduates have no student loans hanging over them.
After this conversation with my high school classmate — and after also contemplating whether to stay in the military — I gradually came to the realization that among my peers I am fortunate.
Read: It’s the Economy, Undergraduate by Wes Morgan
While I was deployed I felt, and wrote, sentiments similar to those voiced by some in a recent post by Wes Morgan concerning disenchantment toward civilians for their lack of concern over the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Now, after being back in the United States for almost a year, I have come to believe that it’s not for the lack of caring that Americans are not more involved with the war, rather that there are more pressing and immediate concerns like employment prospects, mortgages, and providing for their families.
Moreover, what does that vague term “involvement” mean? Perhaps the most involved one can be is by pasting a yellow ribbon bumper sticker on a car or taking a moment of silence when reading about the death of a soldier. Or is a sense of involvement impossible, and perhaps the only reason I am so absorbed with the military is because of the simple fact that I wear the uniform every day?
Any anger or resentment toward citizens who cannot locate Baghdad or Kabul on a map is unjustified because it is impossible to be more “involved” in the war than being an educated taxpaying citizen. When the government is struggling and debating freezes on spending, it is perhaps unfair to ask Americans to do anymore than simply continue supporting the military with their tax dollars. Moreover, I’m sure that many Americans are ambivalent about how their tax dollars are spent in terms of national defense considering the many blunders related to major weapon projects.
For my parents, siblings, and civilian friends, life’s demands are greater than just reading every factoid concerning the latest suicide bomber attack.
While I still believe that many Americans are completely oblivious to the suffering and pain of people overseas, this does not mean that I should be resentful of this innocence. Rather I should count my blessings and hope that the violence which entraps the people of Afghanistan and Iraq never reaches the shores of this country.
Capt. Tim Hsia is an active duty infantry captain serving in the United States Army. The views expressed in this blog are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Army, Department of Defense, or the United States government. We welcome your comments.
http://atwar.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/02/1...dier&st=cse
Re: ARMY?
If you have the ASVAB scores for it and your past is clear enough go talk to the Air Force recruiters about jobs in the aircraft mechanic fields. You'll always be in the rear with the gear fixing jets, if you already have a family its a great way to make sure the world doesnt end up with another fatherless kid. Most bases have a Community College of the Air Force office that you can take classes at. In your case it looks like you mentioned you've already graduated, if thats the case, commission for something like communications or aircraft maintenance squadrons.
Its more like a 9-5 job with some military organization to it. If you're just looking for the job, the security, and the benefits thats the way to go. If you're looking for combat, then by all means try another branch that'll put you in it.
If you have the ASVAB scores for it and your past is clear enough go talk to the Air Force recruiters about jobs in the aircraft mechanic fields. You'll always be in the rear with the gear fixing jets, if you already have a family its a great way to make sure the world doesnt end up with another fatherless kid. Most bases have a Community College of the Air Force office that you can take classes at. In your case it looks like you mentioned you've already graduated, if thats the case, commission for something like communications or aircraft maintenance squadrons.
Its more like a 9-5 job with some military organization to it. If you're just looking for the job, the security, and the benefits thats the way to go. If you're looking for combat, then by all means try another branch that'll put you in it.
Re: ARMY?
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: McCrazy</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Everything said already looks good to me. Although Deadly's post on SGLI makes me wonder if the USMC has a lower limit than the Army.
</div></div>
come on McC you know we dont die
but i looked over my paperwork and SGLI documents and its the same as the Army.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: McCrazy</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Everything said already looks good to me. Although Deadly's post on SGLI makes me wonder if the USMC has a lower limit than the Army.
</div></div>
come on McC you know we dont die
Re: ARMY?
J, it is a worthwhile venture. You are not going to get rich in the Army, but you can live comfortably.
Depending on you degree, you may wind up doing fairly well with a comission. The benifits are actually pretty good compared to the private sector. There is a lot of community opportunities around posts (stuff for the fam. to do).
PM me if you have any specific questions for either me or my wife. My wife had the whole experience, so she can answer a lot of questions your wife may have.
I would even be glad to go with you to talk to a recruiter if you want.
All in all, I am glad I did it, I often wish I could go back in.
If it is a calling, you would enjoy a combat arms role, if it is just a job, there are tons of MOSs that may interest you. Nothing wrong with either, it is just good to be honest with yourself as to what you want to do.
Let me know if you have any more questions, I am glad to help any way possible.
J, it is a worthwhile venture. You are not going to get rich in the Army, but you can live comfortably.
Depending on you degree, you may wind up doing fairly well with a comission. The benifits are actually pretty good compared to the private sector. There is a lot of community opportunities around posts (stuff for the fam. to do).
PM me if you have any specific questions for either me or my wife. My wife had the whole experience, so she can answer a lot of questions your wife may have.
I would even be glad to go with you to talk to a recruiter if you want.
All in all, I am glad I did it, I often wish I could go back in.
If it is a calling, you would enjoy a combat arms role, if it is just a job, there are tons of MOSs that may interest you. Nothing wrong with either, it is just good to be honest with yourself as to what you want to do.
Let me know if you have any more questions, I am glad to help any way possible.
Re: ARMY?
Jackson260,
The numbers above should give you a good sense whether financially the military makes sense. I'm active Army and I enlisted after college because I wanted to do my part. There's nothing wrong with weighing the financial side of joining because if you're married, finances always plays a big role in the relationship. While my wife and I don't live like kings, we're comfortable and I think the benefits are excellent, especially in today's economy. The Army's also going to be paying for my master's through the Post 9/11 GI Bill, a great benefit.
The only caveat I'll give you is this: the Army isn't a job in the standard sense of the word. Depending on your MOS and your unit, you're going to work about an eleven hour day, five days a week. Your first line supervisor can call you day or night and bring you back into work. The military is a way of a life, and a noble one, but Uncle Sam might as well put a barcode on you when you sign up. He owns you for the duration of the contract, and while he takes pretty good care of you and your family, you can't let yourself forget who calls the shots. You've got a pretty secure source of income and your family is well taken care of in the military, but professionally you'll have less flexibility because the Army will put you where it needs you. That's the trade-off.
Jackson260,
The numbers above should give you a good sense whether financially the military makes sense. I'm active Army and I enlisted after college because I wanted to do my part. There's nothing wrong with weighing the financial side of joining because if you're married, finances always plays a big role in the relationship. While my wife and I don't live like kings, we're comfortable and I think the benefits are excellent, especially in today's economy. The Army's also going to be paying for my master's through the Post 9/11 GI Bill, a great benefit.
The only caveat I'll give you is this: the Army isn't a job in the standard sense of the word. Depending on your MOS and your unit, you're going to work about an eleven hour day, five days a week. Your first line supervisor can call you day or night and bring you back into work. The military is a way of a life, and a noble one, but Uncle Sam might as well put a barcode on you when you sign up. He owns you for the duration of the contract, and while he takes pretty good care of you and your family, you can't let yourself forget who calls the shots. You've got a pretty secure source of income and your family is well taken care of in the military, but professionally you'll have less flexibility because the Army will put you where it needs you. That's the trade-off.
Re: ARMY?
What I see in the past few years since we kicked off the GWOT:
A Lot more nice vehicles (Tax Free Deployment pay)
A lot more guys(Single, Private through Specialist, or E1 - E4) getting scammed by women who just want a meal ticket then a nasty divorce
A Lot more Soldiers buying houses instead of wasting all that tax free money on SUV's with 24" chromies
The money is pretty good once you get above E4 or if you have zero bills as a E1 - E4. The biggest issue lower ranked single Soldiers have is DEBT, and BAD CREDIT CARDS, and HIGH CELL PHONE BILLS.
If you stay away from that stuff as is recommended by every single Team and Squad Leader you will have you will be OK, but there are a lot of DMF's who think they know better than the ones who have been around and seen all the BS attached to being a Soldier.
If you are Airborne you get a bit extra, deployed, up to $750+ a month tax free, re-up in a deployment zone, and maybe a nice fat bonus($40k+) Some and a few worthless ones are getting over $40k just to enlist. Don't be a douchbag if you join, there are far too many already straining the system to it's max
What I see in the past few years since we kicked off the GWOT:
A Lot more nice vehicles (Tax Free Deployment pay)
A lot more guys(Single, Private through Specialist, or E1 - E4) getting scammed by women who just want a meal ticket then a nasty divorce
A Lot more Soldiers buying houses instead of wasting all that tax free money on SUV's with 24" chromies
The money is pretty good once you get above E4 or if you have zero bills as a E1 - E4. The biggest issue lower ranked single Soldiers have is DEBT, and BAD CREDIT CARDS, and HIGH CELL PHONE BILLS.
If you stay away from that stuff as is recommended by every single Team and Squad Leader you will have you will be OK, but there are a lot of DMF's who think they know better than the ones who have been around and seen all the BS attached to being a Soldier.
If you are Airborne you get a bit extra, deployed, up to $750+ a month tax free, re-up in a deployment zone, and maybe a nice fat bonus($40k+) Some and a few worthless ones are getting over $40k just to enlist. Don't be a douchbag if you join, there are far too many already straining the system to it's max
Re: ARMY?
Thanks for all of the help fellas. Im gonna talk to a recruiter but im not sure if ill want to believe what they say. Im afraid that those guys are just telling you what you need to hear to get your name on that dotted line i dont think there very trust worthy witch is why im looking to you guys who are currently in or have been enlisted that will give me the low down.
Thanks for all of the help fellas. Im gonna talk to a recruiter but im not sure if ill want to believe what they say. Im afraid that those guys are just telling you what you need to hear to get your name on that dotted line i dont think there very trust worthy witch is why im looking to you guys who are currently in or have been enlisted that will give me the low down.
Re: ARMY?
Jackson- Despite what most people think, Recruiters aren't going to outright lie to you. Most just want to get through their tour until they can go back to the real Army. Do they want you to join? of course. Do some recruiters blatantly lie? unfortunately so. Do some just "omit" things that might negatively effect your decision to join? yes. Are you qualified to join? gotta see the recruiter and head to MEPs to find out otherwise this thread is a waste of time for you.
Jackson- Despite what most people think, Recruiters aren't going to outright lie to you. Most just want to get through their tour until they can go back to the real Army. Do they want you to join? of course. Do some recruiters blatantly lie? unfortunately so. Do some just "omit" things that might negatively effect your decision to join? yes. Are you qualified to join? gotta see the recruiter and head to MEPs to find out otherwise this thread is a waste of time for you.
Re: ARMY?
Having supported Recruiters from Guam to Alaska to Miami to Germany it's not an easy job. On top of that many who come in to sign up may not qualify for whatever reason (health, criminal background, whatever).
See the man, and see if you qualify.
Having supported Recruiters from Guam to Alaska to Miami to Germany it's not an easy job. On top of that many who come in to sign up may not qualify for whatever reason (health, criminal background, whatever).
See the man, and see if you qualify.
Re: ARMY?
The info these guys are giving you is good I think some of the nmber are off on the pay and stuff. I would have to pull up my LES and check it. The base pay for everyone has gone up and so has the BAS and BAH.
Like others have said the BASE PAY only goes up with the more years you put in and when you get promoted. The BAS stays the same, also the BAH goes up like the BASE PAY and depending on where you are at.
I am currently stationed at FT. Bliss, TX and my BAH for a SSG is $1100.00 I know I am off a litte on that I am not looking at my LES. I live in post housing as it is nocer than ,ost of the places off post.
With that they pay you the BAH and then take it back and it shows as a allotment on your LES. This pays your so called rent and all the utilities such as gas, water, and power.
Yes you and your family will have full medical and dental and like what was said the dental sucks as here in CONUS most posts donot see dependents at the troop dental clinics anymore . You have to find one off post for the family. You on the other hand have to use the dental clinc on post unless it is for some specail work that needs to be done then they might send you off post.
The medical is pretty good depending where you are at, you also get to use the commisary, PX, MCSS other types of things on post. Sometimes you can find things cheaper there and sometimes you can it off post cheaper.
Over all you do tend to make out pretty good when you figure in your pay, medical and dental care for you and the family also you get 30 days of paid leave a year.
Yes they do have the student loan repayment program to pay off any student loans you might still have. Also like what was posted you can come in as either a PFC/E-3 or a SPC/E-4, or you might be able to come and go to OCS like someone mentioned.
I can tell you I ove the Amry have been in 16 years now and been on 10 different deployments throught out all my years from natural disaster relif to peace keeping to actual combat. I can tell you I would not change it for the world with all the places I have been and the things I have done all on the .GOVs dime.
Man 4 more years and I can retire.
The info these guys are giving you is good I think some of the nmber are off on the pay and stuff. I would have to pull up my LES and check it. The base pay for everyone has gone up and so has the BAS and BAH.
Like others have said the BASE PAY only goes up with the more years you put in and when you get promoted. The BAS stays the same, also the BAH goes up like the BASE PAY and depending on where you are at.
I am currently stationed at FT. Bliss, TX and my BAH for a SSG is $1100.00 I know I am off a litte on that I am not looking at my LES. I live in post housing as it is nocer than ,ost of the places off post.
With that they pay you the BAH and then take it back and it shows as a allotment on your LES. This pays your so called rent and all the utilities such as gas, water, and power.
Yes you and your family will have full medical and dental and like what was said the dental sucks as here in CONUS most posts donot see dependents at the troop dental clinics anymore . You have to find one off post for the family. You on the other hand have to use the dental clinc on post unless it is for some specail work that needs to be done then they might send you off post.
The medical is pretty good depending where you are at, you also get to use the commisary, PX, MCSS other types of things on post. Sometimes you can find things cheaper there and sometimes you can it off post cheaper.
Over all you do tend to make out pretty good when you figure in your pay, medical and dental care for you and the family also you get 30 days of paid leave a year.
Yes they do have the student loan repayment program to pay off any student loans you might still have. Also like what was posted you can come in as either a PFC/E-3 or a SPC/E-4, or you might be able to come and go to OCS like someone mentioned.
I can tell you I ove the Amry have been in 16 years now and been on 10 different deployments throught out all my years from natural disaster relif to peace keeping to actual combat. I can tell you I would not change it for the world with all the places I have been and the things I have done all on the .GOVs dime.
Man 4 more years and I can retire.
Re: ARMY?
Ghost-1: links provided re: Pay are current 2010 rates that show paygrade and time in service jumps in pay.
A good friend is stationed at Bliss and currently in Iraq with 4/1AD, his wife hates El Paso...
Good luck with the rest of your deployment.
Ghost-1: links provided re: Pay are current 2010 rates that show paygrade and time in service jumps in pay.
A good friend is stationed at Bliss and currently in Iraq with 4/1AD, his wife hates El Paso...
Good luck with the rest of your deployment.
Re: ARMY?
Ditto just about everything stated above.
I would also really look at the bills you have now and go from there. I have seen some "older" people joining because they have lost a job that they had for a while and were making decent money and move to the bottom of the pay chart and have a really hard time making ends meet!
Also make sure you have a VERY strong relationship with your wife and make sure you keep her in the loop with every decision you make... you do not want to join and expect one thing and then it hits her that she wants nothing to do with the military life and she leaves with the kid... I have also seen that plenty.
I came from living on a dairy farm where as you can guess money was real tight to the military where I know on the 1st and the 15th there will be a paycheck.. no worries.. so for me I get paid a lot!
I am not sure what age you are but you also have to be able to take direction from younger people that may have been in for a while so be careful there. Swallow your pride and work your way up is all I can say. I see a lot of 26+ year old guys just joining and then they cant take direction from this 20 year old "kid"... well thats too bad!
One last thing... the military will own you and use you for everything! Put in 100% everyday and make yourself a better person everyday. Use all of your benifits including the 4500 bux a year in tuition assistance its free! I havent touched my GI bill and I take at least 1 class per semester.. or try to!
Good luck and have fun!
PS: sorry for the piss poor grammar and spelling... I am in a rush!
Ditto just about everything stated above.
I would also really look at the bills you have now and go from there. I have seen some "older" people joining because they have lost a job that they had for a while and were making decent money and move to the bottom of the pay chart and have a really hard time making ends meet!
Also make sure you have a VERY strong relationship with your wife and make sure you keep her in the loop with every decision you make... you do not want to join and expect one thing and then it hits her that she wants nothing to do with the military life and she leaves with the kid... I have also seen that plenty.
I came from living on a dairy farm where as you can guess money was real tight to the military where I know on the 1st and the 15th there will be a paycheck.. no worries.. so for me I get paid a lot!
I am not sure what age you are but you also have to be able to take direction from younger people that may have been in for a while so be careful there. Swallow your pride and work your way up is all I can say. I see a lot of 26+ year old guys just joining and then they cant take direction from this 20 year old "kid"... well thats too bad!
One last thing... the military will own you and use you for everything! Put in 100% everyday and make yourself a better person everyday. Use all of your benifits including the 4500 bux a year in tuition assistance its free! I havent touched my GI bill and I take at least 1 class per semester.. or try to!
Good luck and have fun!
PS: sorry for the piss poor grammar and spelling... I am in a rush!
Re: ARMY?
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Cavscout1983</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Jackson- Despite what most people think, Recruiters aren't going to outright lie to you. Most just want to get through their tour until they can go back to the real Army. Do they want you to join? of course. Do some recruiters blatantly lie? unfortunately so. Do some just "omit" things that might negatively effect your decision to join? yes. Are you qualified to join? gotta see the recruiter and head to MEPs to find out otherwise this thread is a waste of time for you. </div></div>
This is so true. They didn't lie unless you count lying by omission. A few details about bonus pay were not explained fully, but the mention of how they are paid (lump sum upon 1st base assignment)was. Just hearing the idea of a $30k bonus was huge to me. All in all, I don't feel like I was lied to in a bad way, just tactically guided to the best possible outcome. I went AF though because of a scholarship offer while finishing Pharm school. Going in as a captain sounded better and better as I saw what enlisted pay was.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Cavscout1983</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Jackson- Despite what most people think, Recruiters aren't going to outright lie to you. Most just want to get through their tour until they can go back to the real Army. Do they want you to join? of course. Do some recruiters blatantly lie? unfortunately so. Do some just "omit" things that might negatively effect your decision to join? yes. Are you qualified to join? gotta see the recruiter and head to MEPs to find out otherwise this thread is a waste of time for you. </div></div>
This is so true. They didn't lie unless you count lying by omission. A few details about bonus pay were not explained fully, but the mention of how they are paid (lump sum upon 1st base assignment)was. Just hearing the idea of a $30k bonus was huge to me. All in all, I don't feel like I was lied to in a bad way, just tactically guided to the best possible outcome. I went AF though because of a scholarship offer while finishing Pharm school. Going in as a captain sounded better and better as I saw what enlisted pay was.
Re: ARMY?
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Cavscout1983</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Ghost-1: links provided re: Pay are current 2010 rates that show paygrade and time in service jumps in pay.
A good friend is stationed at Bliss and currently in Iraq with 4/1AD, his wife hates El Paso...
Good luck with the rest of your deployment. </div></div>
Yeah saw the new pay scale after I looked for it, my Base Pay and BAS pay went up not by much and so did my BAH but they get that back as I live in post housing.
I am over here in Iraq with 4/1 AD and trust me my wife hates at Bliss also, I am trying to PCS back to Campbell or go to Knox when we get back.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Cavscout1983</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Ghost-1: links provided re: Pay are current 2010 rates that show paygrade and time in service jumps in pay.
A good friend is stationed at Bliss and currently in Iraq with 4/1AD, his wife hates El Paso...
Good luck with the rest of your deployment. </div></div>
Yeah saw the new pay scale after I looked for it, my Base Pay and BAS pay went up not by much and so did my BAH but they get that back as I live in post housing.
I am over here in Iraq with 4/1 AD and trust me my wife hates at Bliss also, I am trying to PCS back to Campbell or go to Knox when we get back.
