When it comes to sacrificing both blood and money, the military always comes first. The kicker, the same politicians who pick "the cuts" often assign "more work" in the process.
As do I. I can't tell you how sick I grew watching what I termed "war tourists" come to Afghanistan for a few days, then go to Germany for a few days, then back to Afghanistan for a few days, etc and get the full paycheck. I believe this is a smart way to save money and common sense.