Is Military Pay Too High?

Well, as a 12 year active duty veteran (served 1996-2008) I was making significantly more than I am now as a federal correctional officer. I have been stabbed by an inmate (2009), had 3 co-workers assaulted and stabbed and one killed since I began working this crappy job 5 years ago.

I was a TSgt (E-6) when I got out of the military. I deployed to 5 times to OIF/OEF and multiple other operations out of AFSOC in Hurlburt Field and I was stationed in Korea (96) and Kadena (2006-2008). My paychecks were around 1900.00 a payday (after taxes) at that point including BAH and BAS. My first paycheck as a GS-6 Federal Correctional Officer was $988.00 after taxes. My gross salary was $38,600.00 a year. Yes, you get OT (IF you can get it) and yes you get shift differential. However, the deductions are insane. Also, you pretty much need a Bachelors Degree if you intend on getting promoted in the civilian sector. Otherwise, it’s just not going to happen. The educational requirements are pretty much standard for most jobs above GS-7.

First off, you get taxed on 100% of your income (not just basic pay). Also, your retirement is not free. You must pay 1% of your total pay into the system JUST for your agency retirement which only equates to 34% after 20 years of service (military gets 50%). Keep in mind that is ONLY for law enforcement. If you are NON-Law Enforcement, you only get 1% per year of service and cannot retire until age 57 MINIMUM. Lastly, healthcare is not free. For basic coverage I pay $262.00 per month for self and family. Standard plans costs $360.00 per month.

I currently make $45,992.00 per year. My paychecks after taxes are $1410.00 every two weeks ($2820.00 per month) and I put NO money into my TSP. I have to pay for all my bills with that INCLUDING mortgage. It quite simply sucks.

I was WAY better off financially in the military. If I include taxes, healthcare and retirement deductions, I would need to be at around $75,000 a year (GS-12) to bring home what I did in the military.

I am certainly not saying that military makes too much. But, the civlian sector does NOT make more than the military by a long, long shot. That is 100% pure fact. I have worked both for long enough.

 

I urge folks to look through the comments, and see how disrespectful the comments from military members are.

Most of these people are kids who joined at 18, and have no idea what it takes to pay a mortgage, take care of a sick child (financially) or run a business. As a vet, I am disgusted with the rudeness of our current members. They act more and more like mercenaries every day…