What are you worth?

SGM Matthew Quick — Sat, 29 Mar 2014 23:35:50 -0400

Most of the complaints that we hear are about money/salary. Whether it is an enlisted member complaining about an officer's pay or about a civilian's pay, it's an issue.

Realistically...how much do you feel you should be compensated for what work you actually perform?

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 30 at 2014 1:16 AM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 30 Mar 2014 01:16:35 -0400

I believe we are fairly compensated for our jobs. I do think many people leave a lot of their compensation sitting on the table though. TA is just one example that comes to mind of money that is left on the table when looking at the big picture. I strongly believe the same people who are not making responsible financial decisions now will continue to do so no matter what they are paid.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 30 at 2014 6:29 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 30 Mar 2014 06:29:32 -0400

MSG Quick,

Considering the level of responsibility inherent in my rank, and how little education and experience the majority of Soldiers have when they enter the Army, I think that Specialists (E-4s) are compensated pretty well. Yes, we do have duty on a weekend occasionally, but as a civilian, I used to put in tons of unpaid overtime and almost never had a 4-day weekend, plus my allotted vacation days for the whole year totaled TWELVE.

As a civilian, I'd never be given a year's worth of free training while also receiving a salary, housing, and a food allowance. I'd be paying around $400 per month for the level of health insurance I have. Vision, dental, and life insurance would be an extra $200. I'd be paying for my own clothing, too, and there'd be no excuses of "I can't afford to buy a new uniform" for showing up in ratty or unprofessional attire.

When I see threads from Soldiers complaining about their pay, I just laugh and skip to the next discussion.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 30 at 2014 6:33 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 30 Mar 2014 06:33:08 -0400

I think MOS should have a factor.....but I know that will never happen.....and there will be too much "well, I did this and that and bla bla bla"