It is no hyperbole to say that our lives depend on these men and women who serve the nation.
The service that our military personnel provide is even more extraordinary when we realize that they volunteer for duty. In 1968, the U.S. had 3.5 million active service members, but that number dwindled precipitously after 1973 when the draft ended.
Today, everyone in uniform is there by choice.
Despite the commitment and sacrifice of military personnel, the nation’s support of them is lackluster. According to the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD), the starting monthly pay for enlisted personnel is $2,261 after an initial six-month period, though this can vary depending on location, skills, etc.
A primary reason individuals join the military is the tuition benefit that the military provides. According to Indeed.com, education and training benefits are the second main driver of enlisting after a sense of duty.
Tuition benefits for veterans…
