[Terp]

While Bush’s proposed 2004 defense budget would continue higher targeted raises for some ranks, he also proposed capping raises for E-1s, E-2s and O-1s at 2 percent, well below the average raise of 4.1 percent.

This practice started about 3 years ago while Clinton was in office. It was recommended as a way to keep the mid level personnel in the service not penalize the lower ranks. You notice they say the E-1s, E-2s and O-1s get a lower pay raise but that the average is 4.1 percent on average. Those who are making a career out of the military are those getting the biggest pay raises as it should be in my opinion.

[marron]

Those who are making a career out of the military are those getting the biggest pay raises as it should be in my opinion.

I agree with you, the guys on their second enlistments and beyond are the ones raising families on military pay. Any idea what a career E4 or E5 averages in salary?