I can agree with some of it however it is easy for someone of his rank to make this statement. What about that PFC or SPC with a family of four. I think that if they need to cut spending then cut it. However why start with our benefits and pay?? In the end it is a job. For some a career. Today's military lacks in many things, including discipline. As many say, we need to get back to the basics. Cutting pay will not instill discipline, it will create more problems. The culture of the military has changed over the years. Many soldiers feel entitiled. I joined the military at 26 years old with a wife and 2 children because I was laid off from my job of 6 years. I was extremly greatful and I have done what I have had to do to excel in the military. I am thankful everyday to have the opportunity to serve, but I still need a paycheck for my family.

<p>His wording may have been horrific in it's choice, but it would have been more palatable if the country was not in a conversation about trying to raise the minimum wage. When taken in comparison with proposed minimum wage increases it is not only non-palatable it may become non-potable.</p><p><br></p><p>If the minimum&nbsp; wage is increased to $10.50 an hour,&nbsp;an E-1 and E-2 will not meet the minimum wage law requirements for salary based on a 40 hour work week. </p><p><br></p><p>$10.50 per hour x 40 hours per week x 52 weeks = $21,840 per year. </p><p><br></p><p>E-1 $18,372 + $183.72(proposed 1% pay increase)&nbsp;= $18,555.72&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>$21840 - 18,555.72 = &nbsp;$3284.28 below minimum wage based on a 40 hour week (what E-1 actually only works 40 hours?), or in other words, 2 months of pay below the proposed minimum wage. </p><p><br></p><p>While there are other aspects&nbsp;of compensation to look at, BAH and BAS or supplied housing and rations, one big aspect of military benefits is becoming a employer based requirement on the outside as well. As civilian employers start facing mandates to provide healthcare for employees, another positive aspect of service compared to civilian employment is eroded and equalized to the point that there&nbsp;are very few positive&nbsp;benefits to service. </p><p><br></p><p>The effect continued low pay increases will have on moral, retention, and recruiting may be detrimental in the near future. </p><p><br></p>