Military Pay

Having left the Army this year to return to the civilian job market, I found your article on the “poverty” of some military families inspiring very little sympathy. Even worse, I found Rep. Elton Gallegly’s proposed bill to spend $750,000 to study this “problem” outrageous.

Assuming that it is the same at Point Mugu as it was at Fort Bragg, the sailor profiled in your article pays neither rent nor utilities other than phone service while he lives in on-post housing. Also, he draws over $200 a month in separate rations to pay for his individual food expenses in addition to his base pay of $1,300 a month. All of this is on top of 30 days of paid vacation each year and health and dental benefits for him and his family. This sailor makes the equivalent of at least $25,000 a year with better benefits than most civilian workers.

The military provides job security, a steady and fair paycheck, and a good retirement. It is not responsible for the financial hardship of members who decide to live beyond their means.

Congressman Gallegly should save all Americans a lot of money and tell any military personnel who are unhappy with their pay to compare it to their civilian options. I’ll bet $750,000 they find their current pay more than fair.

CRAIG WESTPHAL

Newbury Park