US Army Pay & Benefits: Your Complete Guide\n\nHey there, future soldiers and curious minds! Ever wondered what it really means when we talk about US Army pay ? It’s far more than just a paycheck landing in your bank account every two weeks. When you commit to serving our country in the US Army, you’re not just signing up for a job; you’re stepping into a comprehensive compensation package that’s designed to support you and your family every step of the way. We’re talking about a whole suite of benefits, allowances, and special pays that make a real difference, reflecting the incredible dedication and sacrifice that comes with military service. Understanding this entire system is crucial, whether you’re considering enlisting, a family member of someone serving, or simply looking to get a clearer picture of how our servicemen and women are compensated. Many folks often just focus on the basic salary, but trust us, guys, that’s only the tip of the iceberg. The true value of an Army career lies in the entire financial and personal well-being package that accompanies it. This includes everything from housing and food allowances to top-tier healthcare, robust retirement plans, and amazing educational opportunities that can set you up for life, whether you stay in uniform or transition back to civilian life. Our goal here is to pull back the curtain and give you a super clear, easy-to-understand breakdown of what you can expect. We’ll dive deep into the various components of military compensation , showing you exactly how soldiers earn their keep and how the Army invests in their future. So, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of US Army pay and compensation and uncover all the fantastic advantages of a military career! This guide is packed with high-quality information to provide immense value to anyone seeking to understand the financial aspects of Army life, making sure you’re well-informed and ready to make the best decisions.\n\n## Discovering US Army Pay and Compensation: More Than Just a Salary\n\nLet’s kick things off by really digging into what US Army pay and compensation entails. As we just touched on, it’s so much more than the salary you see listed for your rank. Think of it as a robust, multi-layered system designed to take care of soldiers and their families, ensuring they have the resources they need to thrive. The core of this system is, of course, basic pay , which is determined by your rank and how long you’ve served. But then, layered on top of that, you have a plethora of allowances that address specific needs, like housing and food. Beyond these staples, there are special pays and incentive pays that recognize unique skills, hazardous duties, or challenging assignments. And that’s not even counting the incredible benefits package – we’re talking about healthcare, retirement, educational opportunities, and life insurance. Each component plays a vital role in painting the complete picture of what it means to be financially secure in the Army. For instance, the tax-free nature of certain allowances significantly boosts your take-home pay, making the overall compensation package incredibly competitive, especially when compared to civilian jobs that might offer a higher gross salary but lack the same comprehensive support system. When you factor in things like TRICARE , the military healthcare program, which provides world-class medical and dental care at little to no cost, you begin to see the immense value. Consider also the GI Bill , a program that can cover nearly all of your college tuition, housing, and book costs – an invaluable asset for personal and professional growth. Many young people, and even older recruits, might overlook these elements when initially evaluating US Army pay , focusing solely on the basic monthly stipend. However, it’s truly the combination of these elements that provides financial stability and a solid foundation for future success. We’ll break down each of these components in detail, giving you the full scoop on how the Army ensures its soldiers are well-compensated and cared for, acknowledging their commitment and the unique demands of military life. This holistic approach to compensation is a cornerstone of the Army’s commitment to its personnel, providing security that often surpasses what’s available in the private sector for comparable roles.\n\n## Deconstructing the US Army Pay Structure: Basic Pay and Beyond\n\nAlright, guys, let’s get into the nuts and bolts of the US Army pay structure . At its heart, everything starts with Basic Pay . This is the fundamental component of a soldier’s salary, and it’s determined by two key factors: your rank and your time in service . The higher your rank and the longer you’ve served, the more basic pay you’ll receive. This system is incredibly transparent, with publicly available pay charts that show exactly what an E-1 with less than two years of service earns compared to, say, an O-4 with 10 years. It’s a progressive system, meaning your pay increases steadily throughout your career, rewarding your experience and promotions. So, for example, a newly enlisted private (E-1) will start at a certain basic pay, but as they promote to Private First Class (E-2), Specialist (E-4), Sergeant (E-5), and beyond, their basic pay will increase. Similarly, commissioned officers (O-1, O-2, etc.) see their basic pay climb with each promotion and year of service. This consistent growth provides a clear financial pathway for soldiers. However, as we mentioned, basic pay is just one piece of the puzzle. The allowances are where things really start to get interesting and significantly boost a soldier’s overall financial well-being. The two most prominent allowances are the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) and the Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS) .\n\nFirst up, let’s talk about Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) . This is a crucial component for soldiers, especially those with families or those who live off-post. BAH is designed to offset the cost of housing when government quarters aren’t provided. What’s really cool about BAH is that it’s local-area specific and based on your rank and family status . This means if you’re stationed in a high-cost-of-living area, your BAH will be higher to reflect that, helping you afford suitable housing without dipping into your basic pay. For example, a soldier stationed in New York City will receive a significantly higher BAH than a soldier stationed in a more rural area, ensuring fairness and financial viability regardless of duty station. This allowance is also tax-free , which is a huge benefit, as it means you get to keep more of that money in your pocket, directly reducing your taxable income. BAH is recalculated annually and adjusted based on changes in local housing markets, so it remains relevant to current costs. It’s truly a game-changer for many service members, allowing them to choose housing that best fits their family’s needs and lifestyle.\n\nNext, we have the Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS) . This allowance helps offset the cost of a soldier’s food expenses. Historically, military personnel were provided with meals directly. While many still have access to dining facilities, BAS provides the flexibility for soldiers to purchase their own food. Unlike BAH, BAS is generally a fixed monthly rate for both enlisted personnel and officers, regardless of their location or family status. It’s designed to cover the average cost of an individual’s meals. Like BAH, BAS is also tax-free , further enhancing its value. This allowance is particularly important for soldiers living in barracks who might choose to buy their own groceries or eat off-post regularly, and for those with families who are responsible for their own meal preparation. It’s important to note that if you’re living in government quarters and eating regularly in the dining facility, your BAS might be taken back to cover those meal costs, but for those living off-base, it’s a direct addition to their disposable income. The combination of basic pay, BAH, and BAS forms a powerful financial foundation for every soldier, ensuring that their fundamental needs for housing and food are met, all while allowing them to save or spend their core basic pay on other necessities or luxuries. These allowances are updated periodically to ensure they keep pace with the cost of living, demonstrating the Army’s ongoing commitment to its service members’ financial stability.\n\nBut wait, there’s more! Beyond BAH and BAS, the Army offers other allowances designed for specific situations. For instance, Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) is provided to soldiers stationed in certain high-cost areas within the continental United States (CONUS) to offset expenses that are significantly higher than the average. Similarly, Overseas Housing Allowance (OHA) and Overseas Cost of Living Allowance (OCONUS COLA) are for soldiers stationed outside the contiguous United States (OCONUS), ensuring their housing and living costs are covered in foreign countries, which can often be unpredictable and expensive. There’s also Family Separation Allowance (FSA) , which provides additional pay to soldiers who are involuntarily separated from their families due to deployments or extended temporary duty assignments. These various allowances really highlight the Army’s commitment to a holistic compensation approach, acknowledging the diverse circumstances and demands placed upon its service members. They ensure that financial burdens don’t become an overwhelming stressor, allowing soldiers to focus on their mission with peace of mind. Understanding these components is key to fully appreciating the robust nature of US Army pay and compensation .\n\n## Special and Incentive Pays: Rewarding Dedication and Expertise\n\nNow, let’s talk about some of the really exciting parts of US Army pay : the Special and Incentive Pays . These aren’t just given out willy-nilly; they’re designed to recognize and reward soldiers who take on difficult, dangerous, or highly specialized roles, or who possess critical skills that are essential to the Army’s mission. Think of them as bonuses for being exceptionally skilled or for putting yourself in harm’s way for our nation. These pays significantly boost a soldier’s income and reflect the unique demands and dangers associated with military service. They’re a clear demonstration of how the Army values the unique contributions and sacrifices of its personnel, ensuring that those who take on the most challenging roles are appropriately compensated for their efforts. This category of pay is incredibly diverse, covering everything from hazardous duty to re-enlistment incentives, making it a critical aspect of understanding the full scope of US Army pay . For many guys, these special pays can represent a substantial increase in their overall earnings, making certain career paths even more financially appealing. It’s also important to remember that many of these special pays are also tax-free when earned in combat zones or other designated tax-free areas, further amplifying their financial impact.\n\nOne of the most well-known special pays is Hazardous Duty Pay (HDP) . This is given to soldiers performing duties that are inherently dangerous, such as parachute jumping, demolition work, or handling explosives. It’s a monthly stipend that acknowledges the increased risk involved in these professions. Closely related are Hostile Fire Pay (HFP) and Imminent Danger Pay (IDP) . These pays are for soldiers serving in designated combat zones or areas where they are subject to hostile fire or are in imminent danger. These are critical recognitions of the ultimate sacrifices soldiers are prepared to make and the dangerous environments they operate in. When soldiers are deployed to active combat zones, these pays become a substantial part of their income, and as mentioned, are often tax-exempt , providing an even greater financial benefit during these challenging deployments. Other specific roles also come with their own incentive pays. For example, Flight Pay (also known as Aviation Career Incentive Pay) is for Army aviators, recognizing the specialized skills and responsibilities of flying military aircraft. Similarly, Diving Duty Pay is for qualified divers, acknowledging the risks and expertise required for underwater operations. These pays ensure that highly skilled individuals are retained and motivated within these critical fields.\n\nBeyond specific hazardous duties, the Army also offers pays for specialized skills. Special Duty Assignment Pay (SDAP) is given to enlisted members who perform duties that are extremely difficult, require extraordinary responsibility, or are in short-supply fields. This could include drill sergeants, recruiters, or those in highly technical roles. It’s a way to incentivize personnel to take on these demanding assignments and to recognize the added stress and skill required. Then there’s Assignment Incentive Pay (AIP) , which is a discretionary payment used to encourage soldiers to take assignments that are difficult to fill or are in undesirable locations. This flexibility allows the Army to strategically place personnel where they are most needed, while fairly compensating them for their flexibility. Language proficiency is another highly valued skill, leading to Foreign Language Proficiency Pay (FLPP) for soldiers who demonstrate proficiency in critical foreign languages. This incentivizes soldiers to learn and maintain language skills essential for intelligence, diplomacy, and global operations. Imagine getting paid extra just for being fluent in Arabic or Mandarin – pretty cool, right?\n\nAnd let’s not forget the big incentives: bonuses ! The Army offers a variety of Enlistment Bonuses to new recruits who sign up for specific jobs (often those that are high-demand or require specialized training) or for longer terms of service. These can be substantial, sometimes tens of thousands of dollars, making initial enlistment incredibly attractive. For those already serving, Reenlistment Bonuses are offered to encourage experienced soldiers to continue their service, especially in critical military occupational specialties (MOSs). These bonuses can be a huge financial boost and are often tied to the length of the reenlistment contract and the soldier’s MOS. These special and incentive pays are a clear indicator of the Army’s strategy to attract, retain, and motivate a highly skilled and dedicated force. They acknowledge the unique challenges and expertise demanded of soldiers, going above and beyond basic compensation to truly reward commitment and excellence. For anyone looking at US Army pay , these bonuses and special pays can make a significant difference in their overall financial outlook, especially early in their career or when committing to a long-term service plan. It’s truly a testament to the comprehensive and rewarding nature of military compensation, showing that the Army invests heavily in its most valuable asset: its people.\n\n## The Unbeatable Benefits Package: Healthcare, Retirement, and Education\n\nAlright, fellas, let’s talk about what truly makes US Army pay stand out from almost any civilian job: the unbeatable benefits package . This is where the long-term value of military service really shines, providing comprehensive support that extends far beyond your monthly income. We’re not just talking about a little something extra; these benefits are designed to secure your health, your future retirement, and your educational goals, creating a robust safety net and a springboard for personal and professional growth. When you consider the cost of equivalent benefits in the private sector, you’ll quickly realize just how valuable this part of the compensation package truly is. Many individuals, especially those new to the workforce, often underestimate the immense financial burden that health insurance, retirement planning, and higher education can place on a civilian salary. The Army essentially takes care of these major life expenses, allowing soldiers to focus on their duties and their personal development without constant financial worry. This commitment to the well-being of its service members is a core tenet of military life, making the US Army benefits a cornerstone of its overall appeal. It’s not just about what you earn today, but what opportunities and security are built for your tomorrow, whether that’s next year or decades down the line.\n\nFirst and foremost, let’s dive into healthcare . The Army provides TRICARE , a world-class healthcare program that offers comprehensive medical and dental coverage for active-duty service members, their families, and even retirees. For active-duty personnel, healthcare is essentially free at military treatment facilities, and options for civilian care are highly subsidized. Families often pay very minimal co-pays or annual fees, making quality healthcare incredibly accessible and affordable. This is a massive financial advantage, especially in an era where civilian healthcare costs can be astronomical. Imagine not having to worry about huge monthly premiums or unexpected medical bills for you or your kids – that’s the peace of mind TRICARE provides. From routine check-ups to specialized treatments and emergency care, TRICARE ensures that soldiers and their loved ones receive the best possible medical attention, without the typical financial stressors. This alone can save a family thousands of dollars annually, proving to be one of the most significant, yet often overlooked, components of US Army pay and benefits .\n\nNext up is retirement . The Army transitioned to the Blended Retirement System (BRS) for most service members joining after 2018. The BRS combines a traditional defined benefit pension (after 20 years of service) with a portable Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) account, which is similar to a civilian 401(k). The Army automatically contributes 1% of your basic pay to your TSP and then matches your contributions up to an additional 4%. This matching contribution is essentially free money towards your retirement! Even if you serve less than 20 years, your TSP with Army contributions is yours to keep, offering a fantastic head start on retirement savings that’s uncommon in many entry-level civilian jobs. For those who do serve 20 years or more, the traditional pension provides a reliable income stream for life, complementing the TSP savings. This robust retirement plan offers incredible financial security for your later years, ensuring that your service is rewarded with a stable post-military life.\n\nThen there are the incredible educational opportunities . The most famous, of course, is the Post- ⁹ ⁄ ₁₁ GI Bill . This phenomenal benefit provides up to 36 months of tuition and fees (often covering 100% at public in-state institutions), a monthly housing allowance, and a stipend for books and supplies. It’s literally a free college education for those who qualify, and you can even transfer it to your spouse or children! Beyond the GI Bill, the Army also offers Tuition Assistance (TA) , which can pay up to 100% of your tuition for courses taken while on active duty, allowing you to pursue degrees or certifications without incurring debt. This means you can advance your education and career prospects while still serving , setting yourself up for an even brighter future. These educational benefits are transformative, empowering soldiers to achieve their academic and career aspirations without the burden of student loans, making them an incredibly valuable component of the US Army compensation package.\n\nLet’s not forget life insurance . The Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) provides low-cost term life insurance coverage up to $500,000 for active-duty members, offering vital financial protection for your loved ones in case of an unforeseen tragedy. It’s incredibly affordable, often just pennies on the dollar compared to civilian policies, and provides peace of mind that your family will be taken care of. Additionally, soldiers accrue generous leave (paid vacation) each year, allowing them to take time off to relax, spend time with family, or pursue personal interests. This paid time off is a critical aspect of work-life balance and overall well-being. And finally, the myriad of travel and discount opportunities for military personnel, from discounted flights and hotels to exclusive shopping privileges at commissaries and exchanges, further stretches a soldier’s dollar. When you put all these benefits together – healthcare, retirement, education, life insurance, and more – it becomes crystal clear that the US Army offers a compensation package that is truly unmatched , providing comprehensive support that secures both your present and your future. It’s a testament to the value placed on those who dedicate their lives to protecting our nation.\n\n## Navigating Taxes and Financial Planning for Soldiers\n\nAlright, savvy soldiers, let’s talk about a super important aspect of US Army pay that often gets overlooked: navigating taxes and smart financial planning . While the Army offers incredible compensation and benefits, understanding how taxes impact your income and how to manage your money effectively is crucial for maximizing your financial well-being. It’s not enough just to receive the pay; you need to know how to keep it and make it work for you. Many guys might find taxes intimidating, but with the right knowledge, you can optimize your financial situation while serving. The unique nature of military pay, with its various tax-free allowances and combat zone exemptions, provides distinct advantages that civilian counterparts typically don’t have. Learning to leverage these benefits and implementing sound financial practices will set you up for long-term success, whether you’re planning for retirement, saving for a home, or pursuing further education after your service. This section is all about empowering you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your money and secure your financial future, proving that understanding the nuances of military taxes and pay deductions is just as important as knowing your basic pay rate.\n\nOne of the biggest advantages for soldiers is the tax-free nature of certain allowances . As we discussed, Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) and Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS) are not subject to federal income tax, and often state income tax as well. This means that a significant portion of your compensation goes directly into your pocket without being reduced by taxes, effectively increasing your take-home pay. For example, if a civilian earns a gross salary that is similar to a soldier’s basic pay plus BAH and BAS, the soldier will often have more disposable income because those allowances are untaxed. Furthermore, one of the most powerful tax benefits is the Combat Zone Tax Exclusion (CZTE) . When you serve in a designated combat zone, all of your pay (basic pay, special pays, incentive pays, etc.) earned during that period can be entirely tax-free . This includes federal income tax and, in many cases, state income tax depending on your state of residency. This can lead to substantial savings, allowing soldiers to save a significant portion of their earnings during deployments. It’s a huge financial boost that acknowledges the immense sacrifice of serving in harm’s way. Understanding these specific military tax advantages is key to appreciating the full value of US Army pay and optimizing your personal finances.\n\nHowever, not all pay is tax-free. Your basic pay is subject to federal income tax, and usually state income tax (depending on your legal residence). You’ll also see deductions for FICA (Social Security and Medicare taxes) and potentially contributions to your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) . It’s vital to review your Leave and Earnings Statement (LES) regularly to understand all your deductions and ensure accuracy. Beyond taxes, smart financial planning is paramount. The Army provides excellent resources to help you with this. Financial counselors are available on most installations, offering free and confidential advice on budgeting, saving, debt management, and investing. Taking advantage of these services can be a game-changer for many soldiers, helping them build a solid financial foundation and avoid common pitfalls. Learning to budget effectively is the first step. Knowing where your money goes allows you to prioritize spending, save for goals, and ensure you’re living within your means. The financial stability provided by regular US Army pay and its associated benefits makes it an ideal environment to cultivate strong financial habits. Consider setting up automatic transfers to a savings account or your TSP. The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) , similar to a 401(k), is an incredibly powerful tool for long-term savings. Contributing regularly, especially to take full advantage of the Army’s matching contributions, is one of the smartest financial moves you can make. Even small, consistent contributions can grow into a substantial retirement nest egg over time, thanks to the power of compounding. Avoiding high-interest debt, like credit card debt, is another crucial aspect of financial health. If you do find yourself with debt, work with a financial counselor to create a plan for repayment. Many financial institutions also offer special benefits and rates for military members, so always ask about military discounts or specific financial products designed for service members. By proactively managing your taxes and adopting sound financial planning strategies, you can truly maximize the value of your US Army pay and build a secure financial future for yourself and your family. Don’t leave money on the table, guys – be smart with your earnings!\n\n## Maximizing Your US Army Earnings: Smart Financial Strategies\n\nAlright, let’s wrap this up by talking about how you can truly maximize your US Army earnings and build a fantastic financial future. Getting paid well is one thing, but making that money work for you is where the real magic happens. We’ve gone over the comprehensive US Army pay structure and its incredible benefits, and now it’s time to equip you with some smart financial strategies to help you get ahead. Think of this as your personal playbook for financial success while serving in the military. It’s about being proactive, making informed choices, and taking full advantage of the unique opportunities the Army provides to its personnel. Many guys might think they don’t earn enough to save or invest, but with the consistent paychecks, allowances, and tax advantages that come with military service, you’re in a prime position to build substantial wealth over time. The key is discipline and consistency, starting with the very first paycheck and sticking to a plan. This section will empower you with actionable advice, moving beyond just understanding what you earn to actively growing and protecting your wealth, truly making the most of your Army finances and setting yourself up for a prosperous life both in and out of uniform.\n\nFirst and foremost, create and stick to a budget . This isn’t just some boring chore; it’s your financial GPS. A budget helps you see exactly where your money is going and where you can make adjustments to save more. There are tons of free budgeting apps and tools out there, or you can simply use a spreadsheet. The goal is to ensure your expenses don’t exceed your income and that you’re allocating funds towards your financial goals, whether that’s saving for a down payment on a house, a new car, or an emergency fund. Knowing your financial limits and making conscious spending choices is the bedrock of smart financial planning . The consistent nature of US Army pay makes budgeting much easier than for those with fluctuating civilian incomes, so seize this advantage! Start by tracking every dollar for a month or two, then categorize your spending, and finally, set realistic limits for each category. This discipline will pay dividends for years to come.\n\nNext, prioritize saving and investing early . The earlier you start, the more time your money has to grow through compounding interest. Your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) is your absolute best friend here. Contribute at least enough to get the full matching contribution from the Army (currently up to 5%). That’s a 100% immediate return on your money, which is unbeatable! Even if you start with just a small percentage of your basic pay, those contributions, combined with the Army’s match, will grow significantly over your career. Consider investing in the Lifecycle (L) Funds within the TSP, which automatically adjust your asset allocation as you get closer to retirement, making investing incredibly simple even for beginners. Beyond the TSP, building an emergency fund is critical. Aim for 3-6 months’ worth of living expenses in an easily accessible savings account. This fund acts as a financial safety net, protecting you from unexpected expenses like car repairs or medical emergencies without having to go into debt. These two steps – consistent TSP contributions and a solid emergency fund – are non-negotiable for maximizing your Army earnings and building financial resilience.\n\nAnother huge tip: avoid high-interest debt like the plague! Credit card debt, payday loans, and other high-interest loans can quickly spiral out of control and eat away at your hard-earned US Army pay . If you have existing debt, make a plan to pay it off as quickly as possible, focusing on the highest interest rates first. The financial counselors on base can provide invaluable, free assistance in creating a debt management plan. Additionally, be cautious of predatory lenders or scams that target service members. Always research financial products thoroughly and seek advice from trusted sources. Instead, focus on building good credit through responsible use of credit cards (paying off your balance in full each month) and managing other loans like car payments wisely. A good credit score will open doors to better loan rates for future big purchases, like a home.\n\nFinally, take full advantage of all available military resources . We’ve already mentioned the free financial counselors, but there are also educational benefits like the GI Bill and Tuition Assistance that can save you tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. Use them! Whether it’s pursuing a degree while serving or saving your GI Bill for post-service education or to transfer to your dependents, these are incredibly powerful tools. Don’t forget about the various discounts for military personnel on everything from travel to retail. While seemingly small, these savings add up over time and contribute to your overall financial well-being. By being proactive with your finances, setting clear goals, and leveraging the comprehensive support system the Army offers, you can truly maximize your US Army earnings and build a robust financial foundation for a lifetime of success. It’s about being smart, disciplined, and strategic with your money, ensuring that your dedication to service also translates into a secure and prosperous future. So go forth, guys, and make that Army pay work for YOU!\n\n## Conclusion: The True Value of Serving in the US Army\n\nSo there you have it, guys – a deep dive into US Army pay and benefits that, hopefully, has shown you just how comprehensive and rewarding military service truly is. We’ve journeyed through the intricacies of basic pay, the boosting power of various tax-free allowances like BAH and BAS, and the significant financial impact of special and incentive pays that recognize unique skills and hazardous duties. Beyond the direct monetary compensation, we’ve also highlighted the unbeatable benefits package that includes world-class healthcare through TRICARE, a robust retirement system with the Blended Retirement System (BRS) and TSP matching, and life-changing educational opportunities through the GI Bill and Tuition Assistance. When you combine all these elements, it becomes undeniably clear that US Army compensation extends far beyond a simple bi-weekly paycheck. It’s a holistic investment in the well-being and future of its soldiers and their families, providing unparalleled stability, growth, and security.\n\nServing in the US Army offers a unique path to financial security and personal development that few civilian careers can match. It provides a foundation of consistent income, free or highly subsidized essential services, and incredible opportunities for education and long-term financial planning. The value of serving is not just in the salary you earn today, but in the doors it opens for tomorrow – whether that’s a debt-free college education, a secure retirement, or the invaluable leadership and technical skills you gain. For those considering a career in the military, understanding this comprehensive package is absolutely vital to making an informed decision. It’s about recognizing the true value of your service. We truly hope this guide has provided you with a clear, engaging, and in-depth understanding of US Army pay and compensation . Go forth, be informed, and make the most of every opportunity that military service offers!