Will pay cuts affect your decision to stay in?

SSG Philip Cotton — Sun, 20 Apr 2014 14:31:08 -0400

When I first joined the Army, it was never about the money. I wanted a challenge and training. As time has gone on and I now work Full-Time for the National Guard, I have apprehension on whether the pay cuts will be so deep that It will force me to move back to the private sector.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 20 at 2014 2:47 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 20 Apr 2014 14:47:34 -0400

Sure am...but just b/c i love the system.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 20 at 2014 3:45 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 20 Apr 2014 15:45:08 -0400

Nope. I'm AGR reserves and I've re enlisted twice now. Both times I seriously considered getting out and looked into the private sector, even took job interviews.

The reality is the Army takes care of me, I may not be rich but I have enough. If I go into the private sector things like having health insurance and life insurance and money to live in a nice place plus still have money for food....oh and my truck payment become bigger factors.

There are calculators out there that will show you that you need to make almost 20-30k more in the civilian sector then you do in the military to achieve the same standard of living. Finding a job that pays that kind of money are few and far between. I'm sticking with Uncle Sam till he puts me out!

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 3 at 2014 5:20 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 03 May 2014 05:20:27 -0400

Even with 23 years in, I will stay in (as of now I say this) until they tell me I have to go, or my body gives out.