With the overhaul of retirement, should the military look to incentivizing NCOs to become Officers to keep seniority?

2016-03-03T15:09:25-05:00

The retirement overhaul has shifted emphasis of providing benefits for short to mid-termer careerist from the traditional 20 year careerists. My opinion is that this will cause a loss of seniority as their is no longer a pension at the retirement mark. In particular for the Senior Officers (O-5 and above). The military will now have to compete with the private sector for pay and benefits.

Response by CSM David Heidke made Mar 3 at 2016 3:30 PM

2016-03-03T15:30:57-05:00

If the higher pay isn't incentive enough, I don't know what else you could do.

Good NCOs are just as needed in the Army. IMHO

Response by CPT Mark Gonzalez made Mar 3 at 2016 3:49 PM

2016-03-03T15:49:04-05:00

The vast majority of people would still retire at 20 whether prior service or not. If you want to give incentive they will have to add target bonuses for additional service.

Response by SFC Adam Potter made Mar 3 at 2016 3:50 PM

2016-03-03T15:50:34-05:00

One thing I have not seen, which may need to be considered is Medical Benefits. Are they going away, or is that with a 20 year commitment? If you get to maintain retirement benefits after so many years of service, that is a huge savings compared to the civilian sector. I am glad I have Tri-Care, and I cringe when I see how much my civilian counterparts have to pay for health insurance for themselves and family plans.
Does anyone have any information in regards to military health benefits in regards to retirement?

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 16 at 2016 7:05 PM

2016-06-16T19:05:24-04:00

What folks need to know is this: you must have at least TEN years as officer to retire as officer. I know a young 40 -ish USAF RN who was a TSgt when she "crossed over to the dark side" She said if she retired she would likely have to revert back to her enlisted rank level.