Everyone knows that the United States Army works to defend the liberties of the country and protect the freedoms of United States citizens. But did you know that the United States Army also strives to provide quality job training, educational possibilities, and career advancement options for the individual?
The US Army has grown from a small group of patriots desperately banding together to fight for their freedom, to an extraordinary organization dedicated to helping servicemen and women build better lives for themselves while serving their county. Men and women who serve in the United States Army receive competitive salaries, incomparable health benefits, generous educational aids, and many other benefits. They also have the satisfaction of knowing they make a difference in the lives of each and every American.
Pay and Benefits in the US Army
The US Army gives all Soldiers a competitive base pay which is based on the servicemember’s time in grade (rank) and time in service (how long they have served). There are three distinct classes of pay in the United States Military, including enlisted members, Warrant Officers, and Officers. There are different qualifications to reach each pay grade. Here is a list of the military pay charts.
Active duty servicemembers are also eligible to receive ta free benefits including Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) and Basic Allowance for Subsistance (BAS). BAH is a tax-free benefit given to military members in the form of on-base housing or as a monthly stipend they can use to rent or buy a home off base. BAS is an allowance for food. Many enlisted members who live in on base dormitories may receive access to the chow hall in lieu of direct payment for BAS. Other Soldiers will receive a tax free benefit added to their monthly pay checks.
Medical care is given free of charge to all active duty service members, through TRICARE, the military health care system. With this, soldiers have access to on base or off base medical care, depending on where they are stationed. In most cases, there is no cost for medical services, but be sure to get approval before accessing any off-base medical care. Qualified dependents may also be eligible for free medical care as well.
The Army provides its soldiers with world class training and education opportunities, including high-tech job training, leadership courses, advanced job training, tuition assistance for attending college and certification courses, and the Montgomery GI Bill or Post-9/11 GI Bill for attending college or training courses while still serving on active duty, or after you receive your discharge paperwork. The education benefits alone are worth tens of thousands of dollars.
Career Opportunities in the US Army
The main focus of the United States Army is the defense of the nation and its allies, primarily working through land-based missions. The United States Army secures hostile territory and holds it until peace has been restored. Because of the vast mission of the Army, it is the largest of all the branches of the Armed Forces.
The United States Army is comprised of troops, technicians, medical personnel, engineers, computer specialists, and countless other support personnel. The Army offers the widest range of career opportunities of any branch of service. The career options available cater to almost every interest and talent imaginable. Opportunities to advance inside each career track are virtually limitless, and opportunities to excel personally in your chosen specialty are infinite.
Joining the United States Army requires a commitment to your country and a commitment to yourself to reach farther and strive harder than you ever have before. Men and women who become part of the Army community find a sense of purpose and belonging that inspires them to new heights of personal achievement.
