There are two major issues which will affect the GI Bill’s monthly housing (living) stipend in 2011. The first is a decrease in the DoD’s Basic Allowance for Housing payment rates which will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2011. Fortunately this change in BAH rates will not affect current Post-9/11 GI Bill students because of a clause called “individual rate protection.” This clause simply states that anyone currently getting the BAH at a given level will be “grandfathered” or protected from decreases until they are reassigned. The VA has interpreted this to mean veterans are protected until they disenroll, change schools, or programs. But before you let out a sigh of relief, there’s more.
The second event which will likely affect every veteran using the Post-9/11 GI Bill is the recently passed Post-9/11 Veterans Education Assistance Improvements Act of 2010. If signed into law, these changes will go into effect on August 1, 2011. Here is a quick look at the pros and cons of the changes that will directly affect the monthly housing stipend if the bill is signed by the President:
Con – Prorated Payments – The monthly housing stipend will be prorated based on your “rate of pursuit” (the number of course hours/credits taken). For example a half-time student will receive 50 percent of BAH for their location; a three-quarter time student will get 75 percent of the BAH for their location, etc…While this change is fiscally smart, it will result in a reduction in benefits for many veterans.
Pro – Eligibility to Include Distance Learners – “Distance learners” who are taking 100 percent of their classes through online, correspondence, etc, will be eligible to receive 50 percent of the national average for BAH (forecast to be $673.50 for 2011) – which will also be prorated to the rate of pursuit. This change goes into effect on Oct. 1, 2011 and is not retroactive. Some may complain that it is not the full stipend, but the truth is, given the current fiscal situation, this may be the best we can hope for.
Con – Break Pay Gone – Break or interval pay is no longer payable under any VA education benefit program unless emergency circumstances exist, for example catastrophic conditions or national emergency.
Pro – Equalizes Voc-Rehab – The new law will enable disabled veterans who are entitled to assistance under the Voc-Rehab (VR&E) program and are eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill, to opt for the P911 Housing Stipend in place of the VR&E subsistence payment.
Unlike the annual adjustments to BAH payment rates, individuals will not be protected from changes due to prorating the stipend or the elimination of break pay. This means that most vets will see some change in their housing stipend come next fall.
Unintended Consequences and Collateral Damage
Virtually everyone using the Post-9/11 GI Bill will be adversely affected. The changes to the housing stipend calculation will mean that before making payments the VA must calculate each student’s payment based on three factors – their eligibility tier, rate of pursuit, and BAH locality rate. Rumor has it that it will take the VA at least 18 months to update their automated claims processes. This will surely cause a slow down in GI Bill processing time.
Just like the original Post-9/11 GI Bill, the VA will not be given enough time to properly respond and make the changes needed in time for the August 1 deadline. Some at the VA are predicting an administrative nightmare next fall – you can count on it.
This is ridiculous. Now I have to figure out how I'm going to restructure my whole life around these no pay breaks. No stability what so ever. Up to now I've been able to go to school full time because of the continuous pay. Now that may not be possible.
I did not recieve any money for the summer break last summer nor did i recieve any money this winter break…how do i go about getting this break pay? was it automatic or did i have to apply for it?
Mike, You have to be enrolled in classes for the winter and summer sessions in order to receive the living stipend under the Post 9/11 GI Bill. Break pay is really just for the old Chapter 30 GI Bill.
Break pay is available for Post-911 GI Bill as well. (Until the new change takes affect) Your school must "certify" you through the break. Some schools may require you to register for classes for the upcoming semester before they will certify you.
If your break between semesters is not longer than 56 days you can receive break pay. However even though its ending now I don't see why you have to "restructure your whole life" like Matthew said. If you go to summer semesters then your breaks should only be two weeks long between spring and summer and 1 month between fall and spring semesters. Save some extra money for those two breaks and your good its not that big a deal. If your not going to summer semesters then that is on you and not the VA's problem. The Gi bill is supposed to pay for school not subsidize your lazy ass
Exactly how do you propose saving money through the breaks, Ed? The Housing stipend doesn't exactly pay you a lot of money to begin with, and now they pro-rate it based on arbitrary terms. PLUS that's not even the worst part. The pro-rated housing allowance hits 30 days after the month in question. So it's usually while class is in the middle of session. It's not possible to work full time and go to school full time if you're taking any program that requires study through breaks.
My lazy interning (w/o pay) lazy ass. Most Engineers have to intern and the better the company, the worse the pay. I'm pretty sure Buisness majors (most vets) have the same problem. i.e. merrill lynch, morgan etc. internships. To them, your pay is experience and confrences. Too, if you do get pay, its enough for one suit a jacket, wing tips and three months of hard boiled eggs.
You probably attend some mickey mouse douche school and have a cake ass major. If you learned anything in service, it should have been watch your f'n mouth.
As for a solution to our fellow vets real problem here, you'll need to use the Federal Sub loan. Only take out enough for your bills and rent. It sucks but its better than taking out 40k a year like the non vets.
It is not "lazy ass" issue at all. As a full time engineering student, I do not have time to work. I do 16+ hours a semester. As such, I live on a fixed income. For the VA to not pay me for 2-3 week breaks is a huge deal. Just because there is a short break in school, does not mean there is a break in the bills. As a full time student, a Vet should get break pay if enrolled in the next semester. You cant expect a Vet to find a job for 2-3 weeks every few months to make up the difference. It takes longer than that to even find a job.
Don't forget about the federal Pell Grant…anyone can receive it, even if you're receiving GI Bill
Actually, it depends on what you're going up for. If you're an undergrad, then yes, you can get the Pell Grant. But if you're going up for a grduate degree, then you're screwed.
I received break pay and was told as long as you are not out for x number of weeks and enroll again you are entitled to this pay.
Are you guys insane? The Army doesn't pay you to sit on your ass in between semesters! Budget your finances accordingly. Quit bitching and complaining about what the Army was supposed to do for you. They only said they would pay for your school.
You guys think everyone must kiss your ass and pay you for things you don't need. First off break pay, who cares – do what I did and get an actual job c'mon OR just STAY ENROLLED FULL TIME YEAR ROUND. And second, of course you dumb ones do not understand that they won't give you break pay because you weak bodies decided to not go to college during the summer because you'd rather be lazy. Pathetic.
Acutally people opt to take the break because they have families you moron and many people are working full-time and going to school full-time under the Post 9/11. OBVIOUSLY we are not that STUPID since we are pursuing high education.
higher*
I dont think you get it. I am enrolled FULL TIME YEAR ROUND. There are still breaks the college takes between terms that we will not get paid for. Thats the issue. Its not about being lazy, especially when you are taking 23 credits a term. So educate yourself before you open your mouth.
23 credits a term? that's the problem, the 9/11 GI Bill was designed for people who are pursuing a quality education at institutions of higher learning (i.e., actual universities). When all these crazy "online universities" started popping up in order to collect your GI Bill money it started screwing up the system. Go to a real school and you'll find that the GI Bill is a God send.
This was developed after WW2 because veterans could not get jobs, so they went to school instead. Chris are you saying online courses are for stupied individuals who are wasting Gov. money? I have TBI and PTSD and served in Iraq and Afghanistan, so a online course is helpful to me. I assure you that I am not stupied and not screwing the system! Maybe the ones who are screwing the system are the ones who depend to much on the system. I hope if they see that this is not a privilege it is earned, they use it and carry on. The system is not designed on being a welfare check!
"stupied" x2–> STUPID
"…ones who depend to much on the system."
^–>too
VA entitlements are pro-rated upon actual attendance, nothing new, the MGIB was/is the same way, if you have a two week break you will only get paid for 2 weeks. The govt is paying tens of thousands of dollars per person, per year, and people want to whine about not getting paid when they are not in school. How about be grateful for what you do get and lose the sense of entitlement! This year I will have completed a full Bachelors and Graduate School while paying very little out of pocket and still have benefits left over!
If you don't think we who have sacrificed so much aren't entitled to get free education point blank you're an idiot. Talk that stupidity to some Vietnam vets and hear what they have to say about what vets are entitled to. We're very grateful for the benefits we get, that doesn't mean its enough. Take away the military and the vets and what benefits will be left for anyone. Also, how can anyone fix their mouth to say a service member is trying to be lazy. God I hope you served. There are some good for nothings in the military, but you at least had to have been in it to begin criticising us. I hate when people start getting motarded thinking the military is doing them a favor. IT IS OWED TO US! look how much the government has spent on the wars we've fought in and you're really trying to convince me they spend more on our education. Get real! no one is trying to get over, we're just trying to keep our heads above water. Think of all the other benefits that ended with our active duty.
I am enrolled year round, YOU MORON. School still has 2-3 week breaks between semesters. obvisouly you have no clue WTH you are talking about. Going to school to be an engineer, there is no time to work. Being a FULL time student, I should get a FULL GI Bill payment. I go to school all 3 semester and 16+ hours plus intern. Sorry we arent all content with flipping burgers and pushing brooms.
Actually when the new GI Bill was set up it was written in that this pay was entitled. It is not insane to expect something that was promised. What is insane however is your thinking that a mere budgeting of finances is in order to resolve a problem with no quick fix. Many of the people using the GI Bill have families of their own and are non traditional students. This promised money helped many go to school that would not be otherwise to do. I do not know what country you are living in but last i checked nearly everyone i know is laid off etc etc…you keep budgeting your finances while I choose to live in reality.
Wow there is a lot of anger there… The fact is that as long as you were enrolled in school for both the semester before and the semester after and the break was under a certain number of days you got paid straight through. Budget… man come on, the military people deserve every PENNY they can get out of the GI Bill, too many paid a far higher price then the return they are getting from it. Be constructive, and hey if you don't want the money don't take it, or donate it to the DAV or other non-profit veteran assistance program out there.
except for the fact the "break" starts the last day of class. So you don't get paid the week of exams. I wouldn't mind if they finished paying out the whole month of December.
You clearly don't understand the situation. As a former Marine, I know what I got paid to do, and in fact, I have had to bust my ass more as a student some days than I did during a 96 (Which you get paid for). I study 40-60 hours a week through breaks, work 25-30 hour weeks for peanuts, and have to take Graduate Record Examinations that would probably make your little skull pop. So the next time you call someone lazy, think about whether you rate to do so.
It would just be too horrific to entertain the idea of a student loan to make up the difference wouldn't it? For those of us who have served in the military and never had our school payed for and never were able to take advantage of any GI Bill, quit whining and be thankful for the wonderful benefit that you have. Even if it means losing out on a few months of the housing allowance, that is just a fraction of the overall benefit being paid on your behalf.
Everyone alive today who has served has been eligible for education benefits. Don't lie.
Rob… There are MYRIAD reasons why NUMEROUS veterans have found themselves ineligible for education benefits. Do your homework. I won't do it for you.
I consider myself lucky to have overcome poor decisions in my youthful, early days of Navy service. In spite of teen ignorance, I was still able to reap vast educational rewards. Many folks haven't been able to do that.
I'll expect that you'll show less extremism with your "Don't lie" comments in the future. Also: display some respect for your fellow vets. Failing to do so is pathetic.
Roger That!!
Regardless of anything, if a veteran is eligible for a benefit, which there are many programs out there, many do not know what is truly available to them. Please contact your local Veteran's office at the school or university you are thinking about enrolling in. They can help, and you deserve it. I am sorry if you missed out on a benefit, but the bottom line is these days benefits are changing so fast that it is hard to keep up with all of the changes. If you do not contact a local office that can help you figure things out you can and most likely will miss out on them. There are local veteran offices that can help, and many of the people are really friendly and more positive then your post. Last I checked we need to be supporting each other not taking cheap shots. Be constructive please.
those of you who never got it should be supporting us. you should be trying to make sure the rest of us aren't screwed. I can tell you weren't a Marine.
I don't think this new stuff is a big deal..however we get our college paid for because most of us getting the 9/11 gi bill actually did something while we were in. we didn't just sit stateside twiddling our thumbs for 4 years like you did. So stop hating cuz you don't get the gi bill.
- infantry platoon corpsman (OIF)
Student loans are usually only allowed to use for tuition, which the GI Bill currently covers. What it does not cover is the living expenses of day to day life, like rent, utilities, food, gas, etc. Most all grants or scholarships go toward tuition, books, school supplies as well. When I'm not in class, I work my ass off. If you know nothing about what it's like to prep for graduate school, then you need to drink a nice warm cup and sit down.
I don't know what this continuous pay is. My school works on quarters and there is a 10-day break between each quarter. When the school is on the breaks, my BAH has been prorated. Should it not have been? I go to school year-round as well. I have only received full month BAH during the months that my school has been in session the entire month.
You're probably not on Chapter 33, then.
Well I guess you're just going to have to take classes during the winter and summer semesters in order to keep getting the living stipend.
Chris, please quit posting until you figure out what's going on.
Any break is not paid, most schools have time off that there are no classes. Mine has a week off over the summer not covered by classes and at least 4 weeks over the winter. It is unfortunate that there are many that will have to learn to do more with less. With the economy the way that it is, many cannot find work either to fill the void.
There are many places that I think money can come from with out reducing the VA benefits we deserve. My pleas with the congressional representatives have fallen on deaf ears too…oh well. Hopefully I will graduate before this becomes an issue. And then the bigger issue in my future will be to find employment.
not all schools have winter classes or summer classes that go through entirely…I am with Chris I am a full time student and I work 50 hours a week and I have two children, I depend on that money because the justice system isn't the best and I haven't received child support in over a year yet my ex husband gets more of a stipend then I do because he was in longer but doesn't pay me a dime, so yeah to some people oh re budget or get a job but not all of us have that luxury. Not everything that sounds good on paper works in real life. SO be a little more sensitive, what may seem like people just complaining they can be true actual complaints from real people with real problems
Thank god i only have one semester left and i can finally say good riddance to the nightmare I've dealt with since signing up for this version of the gi bill. A huge waste of 2 yrs thats for sure.
It wasnt a waste Mike it helped pay for your school.
I agree with you Matthew. I am really nervous.
Same. I read that part and swore out loud. I've been relying on the break pay, and without it, I can't go to school at ALL unless I move back in with my parents, which I've been avoiding for better than a year now… not good, NOT good.
I agree 100%. I am a single mother of two and making it by as a full time student and not having to take on a job on top of all of my studies (because of the break pay)— This blows!!!!
Counting my Blessings. I served a combined 24 years , 15 of which was Active Duty ( to include two call-ups after the Events of 911, which accounted for almost four of those years). I am a disabled vet and was able to go back to school under Voc. Rehab and then convert to the post 911 G.I. Bill. I never expected any of these benefits being made available to me. I am now working on my Master's Degree and I am very thankful . I was proud to serve and have no regrets…..the benefits that I have received after my service ( medical compensation for my disabilities and college tuition with pay ) very much appreciated. I worked 40 -50 hours per week while attending school full-time and managed a 3.37 GPA. Sometimes we need to give and take a little as required.
i agree totally this comes out of nowhere and i have a house payment and a car i have to pay for now what am i supp to do.. during break? no pay.. and the first month of school how its delayed a month what do i do.. this has me in a huge stump :(
First I will say I am definitely not a supporter of EmBarakment Obama or his blindly overspending administration, but the changes Ive seen in this bill seem fair. If anything while I am eternally grateful to the Bush administration for introducing the Post 9/11 Bill, I do blame the authors of the 9/11 Bill for missing the potential for abuse with the housing stipend. Now we are taking away something that has implied consent and something people obviously have included in their budgets. Maybe they will come back with a grandfather clause but I doubt it because its all about the money.
Ok having said that, why should the US Govt pay a housing stipend when the student is on a break and NOT ATTENDING SCHOOL ? Its true that it makes it hard if you were already depending on that pay during breaks and maybe a grandfathering clause would have been nice there, but realizing this benefit comes from the US Government, I wouldnt expect it to be changed smoothly. Can you think of anything that that the US Government has ever managed smoothly ? This program would be much better if handed over to a private contractor to run.
2. Sorry, but by all accounts, reducing the housing stipend to match the course load percentage is just plain smart. Otherwise too many students would just milk out attendance at half time (like I was planning to do). The original bill was encouraging students to attend no more than 1/2 time. Maintaining the status quo would have greatly increased the cost for the stipend long term and then most likely jeopardized the stipend for ALL.
Providing a partial stipend to online students,, while Im sure unpopular to those attending brick and mortar institutions, evens the playing field for students that must, or choose to attend online :-) (what I will do now). Otherwise potential students who can attend only online might never enroll.
These changes just further serve to prove that the bottom line in all this is that anyone eligible for benefits from Uncle Sam should take advantage as soon as possible. Pay and benefits as a government employee (including military retirement) is subject to change at anytime by congress or the president with the whip of a pen. I suggest realizing that and moving on being happy the 9/11 bill even materialized in the first place. For 20 years I was eligible only for the now defunct VEAP program, for which I, after repeated counseling from career counselors as a young E3 to instead put my money into a bank CD, declined the program. Then when offered the short window to get into the Montgomery GI Bill, as a struggling E4 with new wife and daughter and a part time job selling plasma, I reluctantly declined. Little did I realize that the US Government would hold that decision against me for 20 years. I was ineligible for anything except Tuition Assistance for 20 years. However, this encouraged me to continue college while on duty full time and eventually I painfully earned a masters degree.
Now, I am eternally grateful to the Bush Administration for giving me the 9/11 GI Bill regardless of the tweeks they feel they now need to do.
I also have to admit that the vocational training coverage that the Obama Admin added to this bill was a nice surprise.
So, yes they beat up on the housing stipend but its the first bill to offer one and I believe it was the right decision to curtail the benefit to a percentage matching the course load to prevent abuse. This prevents encouraging participants to drag out their programs at half loads…necessary to prevent long term overruns in the cost for this stipend. Then we would have witnessed another pen whip, wiping out the stipend altogether.
I guess Im saying be thankful you have this at all …some tweeking will happen
It all depends on what you're going to school for. For me, im in paramedic school. 3 out of the 4 classes are 4 credit hours. But I won't be able to get a job during it because I have clinical hours at the hospital that I need to get done, and also ride time in the squads at the same time as clinical hours.
Matthew I think you need a reality check you are a grown man, quit whining and adjust. Sounds like you're lazy and don't want to work full time, no one told you to supplement these payments as your income……….. it's the government things change.
Nice comment, but obviously you don't have a grip on the situation. I already work part time and go to school full time in an upper division science program. I barely make ends meet as it is, and now the government wants to take away 70% of my housing allowance for the month of September? Working full time is not an option when you spend 30 hours a week in class, 40 hours a week outside of class studying, and 25-30 working.
What are the steps to appealing this and asking for interval pay to be reinstated?
Write your congressman. I called my regional office and they said it's completely out of their hands.
That's right on the nose, Matthew. I am very close to graduation, but with this sudden gap, I am now unable to take this summer to look at graduate schools. Much less pay for housing/utilities.
I'm screwed.
So, the answer to no break pay is to get a job? My JOB is full-time student. I have that "Job" because America needs to "win the next century" by being the smartest country on earth. The unemployment rate in my area is 10%, 15-20% for people in their twenties. It takes on average MONTHS to get a job. And very few employers are interested in training someone they are only going to retain for THREE WEEKS. This is a horrible idea.
I agree this is rediculous. How are you going stop payment during breaks, its called basic housing allowance and thats what people use it for. So now we going to go behind in rent for 3 months per year and if you go to school in new york city like me where the rent is high, that is about 8,000 in debt per year.
just go to school without a break. Winter and summer classes man
This is more than outrageous. The president steps in, tries to put up a mosque at an attacked U.S. staple, and now decreases rates and earned pay for veterans? What an excuse for dignity and shame on you Mr. Man.
ok…you totally lost me right there with your ridiculous gunnysacking. The issue we're dealing herewith it is VA educational benefits but rather than focus on that, you feel a compulsive need to drag in your own personal baggage. Do you really need to muddle the water by introducing these distractions? Yes, I get it…you have real personal issues but I would argue that this is not the right forum for it.
your an a$$. Get a life, and stop being so scared.
The President of the United States of America did not try to put up a mosque…if the government gave you any money for school, it should demand a refund!
You're totally out in left field bro. Get with it!
I apologize in advance for this ad hominem rebuttal. People like you are one of the major the reasons why so many people have such low opinions of service members, veterans, and the military community as a whole. As a disabled vet, a fairly liberal-minded person – a dedicated punker in fact, and a 32 y/o recently enrolled college student through the POST 9/11 GI Bill, I disturbed to see some of the brightest young minds in NJ being tainted by that sort of fantastic ignorance. People like you are the reason more people aren't serving and those who are are getting deployed time and time again. So if you give the tiniest shit about our homeland, preach peace, or at least tolerance, cause guess what buddy, non-white people aren't going anywhere. The last thing we need is MORE disharmony and fighting. Read The Art of War. Read The Prince. In-fighting and the decapitation of the chain of command are great for the opposition. Don't contribute to the downfall of your own home. This is America. We are all Americans. With that said, I'll let you get back to your Klan meeting and this thread back to it's topic. I can't believe I've wasted this much time talking about such bullshit.
Sorry but i fail to see where the race issue came in on this one. Personally I dont think that his comment was appropriate for the GI bill blog, but since this is another smaller blog about his comment i'll say this. I dont give a rats ass what color our pres. is. Simple fact is he is incompetant. He promised the world and has delivered jack-shit, and now is cutting our benefits. Simple as that. And no im not sayin i could do a better job. And the decay in our youth, hell we could debate that one all day. As far as im concerned this country has lost its way, and as a whole we need to get back on track.
Actually Congress controls your benefits. If it were up to McCain you wouldn't be getting this little bit of assistance. A small civics lesson, The executive branch is one of three co-equal branches of government pure and simple. When you have a congress totally bought by special interest that makes the law, what do you expect? The Supreme court gave us citizens united, a decision that will only further corrupt the political process. I am disappointed in some actions of this President ( going after marijuana dispensaries) but face it the opposition party said their only goal is to make him a one-term president. I guess we can go with Mitt, a man born on third base who thinks he hit a home run.
Honestly, I couldn't agree more, a mosque at the 9/11 site, it is not right, and it is time we take care of ours and our own country. He is not one of us and people don't see that for some unknown reason. We need to wake up in this country and see things for what they are. Another issue is us owing China money, and allowing so many foreign investers to buy us out in this country for pennies……they said they would take us over within and not without and that is exactly what is happening!
You idiot, this has nothing to do with the President. These changes were Congressional changes. And what does a mosque have to do with anything. The President hasn't tried to put up a mosque anywhere, what the heck are you talking about. You probably are a typical right wing nut who can't stand having a black man in the White House so you watch FOX news all day and bye into their crap.
The fact of the matter is that a Mosque should not be built on a 9/11 sight, so I agree with the original comment. I have many muslim friends who are the wonderful people, but the 9/11 terrorist attack was from radical Muslims who killed thousands of innocent people. It would be defiling to those who were killed to place a mosque on the ground where they were murdered.
Also, it is unfortunate that our President has racked up so much debt (ie. sending resources, people, & money to multiple foreign countries) that there isn't enough money left over to continue many of the veteran's benefits. This is very sad because the veteran's have earned it by serving their country. Higher taxes are coming down the pipeline!
Idiot! This isn't the place (or the post) for your crazy Fox News propaganda. Keep it on the GI Bill.
The President has nothing at all to do with the Muslim Community Center they want to build in New York near ground zero, and there is no relationship between the changes in the program and the mosque. Stop trying to stir up trouble by linking unrelated issues together as an excuse to attack the President. If you don't like him fine, but be honest about your reasons and post it somewhere that's more suitable for a totally political discussion.
agreed about that, the whole pres. is a supporter of ol ali baba is just ignorant. far as i know, he is no more pro muslim, than he is jew, or christian, or any other faith for that matter. Fact remains, though, he has done nothing of any good for this country thus far. anyway, back to the bill.
What do you know? This is a GI Bill forum. Are you in school? If you are how about read the label before firing. don't believe everything you watch or hear. have a good day.
That's absolutely inaccurate. You can than your Republicans in congress for this. The president is pushing education 100%. The GOP is going everything they can to make him look bad in the eyes of common American citizens. It is up to us to realize what they are doing and not fall for it. Congress lives in a world where they are making rules that do not apply to them. The GOP does not care about the average American citizen. They surely do not want the us to gain an education and possibly become more productive in this world. Then their jobs may become available to us. Think about it.
This is stupid a mosque has nothing to do with it. Personally you sound like a spoil brat who can't get there way grow up it;s free money i take classes online and didn't receive anything. I don't base my life off of free money i work to provide you need to do the same. The economy is messed up we have to make cuts it happens thank your last commander and chief for the senseless war that caused it.
I'm so tired of everyone blaming the President!!!!! Doesn't anyone know the way our system works. Oh yeah, that's right a bill gets passed through the House and Senate….. you are talking about over a hundred representatives and senators that agreed to this bill….. I am republican, but remember our country was founded on freedoms. When did we start dictating religions?… Not all Muslims are bad. I was in the Marine Corps and I have met amazing Muslims and some not so amazing ones, it is a particular person that is bad, not a religion.
Also, they did not take our benefits away. I am pissed that we no longer have break pay either, I think it should be an option. However, the government voted in the changes of taking our break pay away so the National Guard would get the same benefits. I don't agree with that either, but we need to look at it a more broad spectrum. They are helping an even more larger group to get an education. That is the job of this big, to provide an education for all of the citizens that risk their lives for their country. I wish everyone would just get there head out of their a**. They are looking out for a country as a whole, we need to figure out how to cover those three weeks of break pay…..oh that's right, why not save the Pell Grant money for that since most of us qualify for it anyway. By the way, I rely on this money for my family, but I'll figure it out.
They should give us Veterans automatic retirement pay equal to the salaries of Lebron James, Brad Pitt, or hell I'll even take Lyndsay Lohans salary. It sucks that we go to Iraq or Afghanistan and get paid chump change while getting shot at -and the rich people sit back and play with balls or get DUI's.
cutting pay for the veteran students…that's an awful way to cut costs…
UInfortunately, that's the way congress is going these days. Also, it will probably only get worse for vets in the future with these new GOP freshman.
you are stupid; congress is making the changes
Actually they are not cutting pay. Your months of eligibility are not being used up during the breaks, so technically you still have all of that money.
yeah…guess the immigrants are more important after all huh.
Wow, Guest #1! I didn't hear about this! When did the President decide to put up his own mosque "at an attacked U.S. staple" and how will this affect the proposed one? You know, the one that's slated to be located several blocks away from the "attacked U.S. staple"…?!?!? (The Washington Post noted that the location is "roughly half a dozen normal lower Manhattan blocks from the site of the North Tower, the nearer of the two destroyed in the attacks.”) I didn't even know the President had time to put up a mosque. Amazing.
ha, guest #1 is a perfect example of why vets need an education
If they were so far from the 'attacked U.S. staple" why did this mosque apply for the "post 9/11 rebuild grant" …. says an educated veteran.
Same reason anyone applies for any government assistance that's available to them, they can. Either way the mosque issue was a political talking point that has no relevance on how our country or government is supposed to be ran.
The real issue is the amount of money being wasted on crap programs, corrupt departments in the government and the huge amount of welfare given out to others that have done little to earn it or to other countries that harbor terrorist!
Funnel that money back into allowing vets to go back to school, better this country from the inside out and take care of our wounded brothers and sisters that cannot take care of themselves anymore!
Not going to even keep stepping on this soapbox…lets just keep looking out for those on our left and right and provide cover for those charging forward, Semper Fi!
Thank you, Sgt S.K. Absolutely right!
Hell Yeah, I couldn't agree with you more than I already do.
Who cares? Just shut the hell up about the mosque already…it's a stupid issue in the first place, and not at all relevant to this one.
Irrelevent response, your missing the point…
I'm sorry but this GI bill has been nothing but chaos for all of us. You know some Vets get caught up in the middle of the VA and the school and the result is classes are paid for but no BAH. So they cannot get books, pay their rent, or eat. You cannot handle all of that stress and not have books and still concentrate on school. Some of these people have families.How is that anything but something to get upset about? We paid into it and were promised to receive it. I agree with sticking to the subject but to say that we should be happy we get it at all? Well some of us aren't getting it at all. Thanks
Wow are you serious? Why dont you do some research and think about this topic before you start patronizing the very people who protect your rights to do so! The worst part about America and our government is people like yourself!
Why is everyone trying to degrade the President, after all I didn't see any of your names on the ballot during the election. If this Post 9/11 Bill was never created then what you would have used what financial aid, student loans? Maybe you should have gotten your education while you were in the military using your TA, then you wouldn't have anything moan and groan about………
TA only pays 4,00 per year and many people are DEPLOYED or have duty and can't go to school while they are serving. Please don't start acting like you have a clue as to what people in the military go through and how they should use their education benefits. You can defend the President all you want, but don't attack service members and veterans who are upset about something being taken from them.
Not only those things, but you have to ask your chain of command if you can go to school!!? At least in my unit that is, and if they don't like you… you're screwed!
Jessica,
"Losers". REALLY? Many people joined the service and made the sacrifices they made BECAUSE of the promise of education benefits. To tell someone that they are entitled to something and then rip it away when their plans have already been made is WRONG. I don't think you understand the severity of someone not getting their break pay for a 45 day period three times a year after they already made plans BASED on it. Could you afford to not get paid 90+ days out of the year and survive? I really doubt it. Please keep your rude and insensitive opinions to yourself. Find another forum to bitch about people who have sacrificed to provide your freedom.
This change just produced a college drop-out. It's been nothing but a nightmare with this pay BS, and I'm done. Finished. Disgusted.
Don't be stupid. This administration has given a lot to you. This Bill is much better than the Chapter 30 MGIBILL that I used and I earned my Masters Degree with money to spare at a good school with a family and a wife attending school. It may not be perfect, but it will get you an education. Stop being a crybaby you JACK WAGON:)
Just remember it was Bush who signed the original Post-9/11 GI Bill.
Actually the Republicans were fighting this behind closed doors… this generous bill is the work of Sen Jim Webb (D-Va)… but nice try
Maybe you should take a look into what it costs to go to school NOW before you go ripping on someone else.
Good for you! Not everyone is as fortunate as yourself and im sure you had more assistance than admitting to. The point is that the Bill was passed with certain benefits promised and as soon as "that guy" came into office those benefits were taken back! Thats like saying here im going to give you $100 dollars for working with me today and then when it comes time to pay up, I say " actually Im only going to give you $50. Thanks for signing up!
masters are also shorter than undergrad
If you drop out because of this then that's on you dude. The changes aren't the end of the world. Adapt and overcome? Ever here that before. I guess you'll just have to plan better for the future.
Correction *hear
Maybe you should try some college because you used "here" incorrectly! And if your comeback for this is "I'm in college or have a degree" then you should "drop out" or give the degree back because you don't deserve it! DUDE!!
Your the type of person the V.A. is looking for. Ones like you will save the V.A. money to continue other programs. Guess college isnt for everyone, only the strong minded.If you cant overcome a little pay hickup, then how will you face the stress of the corporate world? If you want a degree then its gonna take a lot of fighting. Its not an easy path but one thats worth the end result. Fight hard for things in life that you want and dont let anyone stand in your way.
As if troops havent sacrificed or "fought" enough! Horrible point that makes no sense!
Its horrible to make a point that you have to work hard for everything in life? Negative. I am a combat veteran, and no one owes us anything when we come home. Its our duty to re-adjust to civilian life and be sucessful. No one makes any soldier do what they do, we all volunteered and understood what we were getting into. Veterans dont want people to feel sorry for them. I was posting a message that would hopefully motivate the guy. When you come home you can either drown in your sorrows, or get off you butt, motivate yourself and do something with your life. Me, I chose to get a degree when leaving the military. 5 months out and I can say that I have been a soldier, fought in war, and now will have a degree, and thats more than most civilians can say.
Soldiers are entitled to and deserve mental and physical attention after combat, it is not a personal "duty". These are not pity entitlements, but well earned ones.
Combat is a traumatic experience that affects everyone differently. It is not ON YOU to adjust to civilian life. You ARE OWED that by the people who sent you to war and the country you defend.
It is nonsense to tag something as "your duty" and call it a day. That is irresponsible. Everyone responds to situations differently. Some people can compartmentalize, but many cannot. Normal people cannot take the everyday grind of being in the sandbox. The experience changes people and that is perfectly ok. It does not make the person negligent, or irresponsible, or any less a soldier. I hate it when people say: you volunteered so too bad.
I know this a "volunteer" army, but you have to realize that there are some bad sh*t that goes on that no one volunteered for and getting help when you can't cope is not an individual failure.
It took me a year to readjust without assistance, not because I didn't want help, but because I couldn't stand to talk about it. I joked around with other people who wake up screaming, or occasionally find themselves driving in the middle of the road still…. but only with people who have been there. Maybe if I had accepted help, I wouldn't be depressed for that d@mn year.
I was perfectly fine there, but coming back and adjusting to "normal" didn't feel right. I was mentally there still.
….
Sorry to wander off… I'm back and here's my point.
I deserve the entitlements I signed up for. It is not a hand me out and I'll be damn if I let some a-hole who thinks he doesn't deserve anything put all veterans down with him.
WE EARNED OUR ENTITLEMENTS!!!!!!!!
im sorry but the stipen is extra money, meaning you still get your classes paid for. Just get a job.
might have to do the same, it has been a sack of horse crap from day one with this program. the idiots at my school can't keep their billing straight and overbill the va who then takes it out of my pay and tells me i have to collect it from the school. for the first year i got paid once every three months. so far the first 5 months of the second year have been smooth sailing but it lookouts like the last year might be a nightmare again and i might quit when im 70% done.
You should be thankful to get any kind of help from the government to help fund your education. Try paying for your education out of your own pocket. I know the funds you choose to forfeit will gladly be recieved by someone else who is more appreciative.
Thankful that the government is holding up their end of the deal by giving us educational benefits that we were promised when we joined the military?
What branch were you in again? And no, "Navy wife" is not a enlisted MOS.
Nicely put MA2! The people on here are incredibly ignorant! Why are they even on this forum? They have obviously never served. And by the way Vanessa, we do pay for the GI Bill it isn't given to us. We pay 1200 dollars for this and it goes into a big ol pot! If you use it, then its obviously worth it. BUT, most service men and women dont have the opportunity to use it because of their duty or they SIMPLY give their lives after paying for it. Then, their Family or brothers and sisters in arms now benefit from it. So you should be thankful, as we are, that they sacrifice their lives for OUR freedoms and deserve way more than most of you coat tailers ever do.
'I' know how much it costs to go to college, has it occurred to you that 'I' signed up to serve and help put me through college? Watch an army commercial lately?
its obvious you don't know the deal… the all voluntary force is due in large part to the contracts we sign as well as the oath we take. The ch 31 GI bill is a pay-in program 1200-1600 dollars that paid out a little less then 40Gs depending on how you use it. It was common knowledge that most participants never end up using it, and that despite being told that it would pay for college, it ended up resembling a glorified welfare check in the end.
Do you consider the health care your employer gives you a handout?
I don't like the bit about suspending payment during school breaks. Rent comes due whether you are in school or not. But if, like other posters have suggested, they also pro-rate the number of months from the 36 months we have total, I'd be okay with it. :D
I'm glad to see they are offering some stipend for distance learning. I may go that route simply because it's a Master's degree I'll be working on. There aren't many programs in my area which I am interested in and qualified for. I'd like to go for international relations or geosciences. Neither is offered at the Master's level nearby.
Shut up you idiot. It sounds like you don't need the money anyhow. For the one who said they actually use their stipend for rent, sweetheart, that's what it's for.
You're the idiot. The stipend is called BAH…Basic Allowance for Housing, just like when you're active duty. It's specifically for rent.
Jeez, what a d-bag.
If I understand the new change correctly, those who are enrolled half-time will receive 50% of the BAH whereas they do not receive any BAH currently?
Does anyone know if they made any changes to allow active duty spouses who attend school full time any housing stipened?
I would like to recommend by not speculating and just ask the VA for better clarification when all this has become into law. That way it would be more permanent. Till then, if you are in school, stay with it and keep up the good work.
why would an AD spouse getting a housing stipend if they're already getting BAH? let's not get greedy here….
Greed seems to be the theme. I am going to school, using the Post 9/11, yet I do not rely on anything from the VA. Just like when I was active, I do not count on anything from the gov't. Piss pour prior management.
You should, since you will be paying it back in taxes once you finish your degree. That is why it is a stimulus.
Im wondering about the book stipend will that go away?
they only get the housing stipend once the AD spouse is no longer AD
This has nothing to do about greed. I am blessed that my husband who is still active duty has given us his GI bill. And you’re correct we do receive BAH and use it as its intended for. My question was for the spouses who cannot afford to quit working to go to school fulltime due to the family needing her income as well as BAH to survive. There are more and more military members qualifying for food stamps and wic daily. And these are the people who can't stop working for school. To me that is sad. As a key spouse I see the good and the bad of each new law passed that effects active duty. So Steve as a spouse I do not qualify for stipening, but college kids who live at home get their monthly stipening check to help cover cost of living etc. But the spouses who much choose between work or school does not. But I, the spouse am greedy for posing the question hmmmm
"Prorated to the rate of pursuit" i.e. half-time pursuit = half of 50%. ($336.75) Full-time pursuit = all of 50% (about $673.50)
full time students now only get 50% of BAH?
Con — Prorated Payments — The monthly housing stipend will be prorated based on your “rate of pursuit” (the number of course hours/credits taken). For example a half-time student will receive 50 percent of BAH for their location; a three-quarter time student will get 75 percent of the BAH for their location, etc…While this change is fiscally smart, it will result in a reduction in benefits for many veterans.
So is that what this means: Im confused?
Con — Prorated Payments — The monthly housing stipend will be prorated based on your “rate of pursuit” (the number of course hours/credits taken). For example a half-time student will receive 50 percent of BAH for their location; a three-quarter time student will get 75 percent of the BAH for their location, etc…While this change is fiscally smart, it will result in a reduction in benefits for many veterans.
Maybe I understood this wrong!!!!! I am thinking it says the student will recieve a percent of BAH for the location of their school…. Where does it say 50 percent of 50% of BAH Where does it say that BAH is going to be cut in Half to start with!!!
yes it will be based on your rate of pursuit. if you go half time you get half the BAH. if you go 3/4 time you wil get 3/4 of the BAH. just like how the other versions of the GIBILL work.
they receive full BAH as long as they go 1 credit over half-time (7 credits per semester), however that semester only counts for half time towards the total 36 month lifespan of the new GI Bill. kind of a loophole really.
well if 12 is full 6 would be half 9 would be 3 quarter and 12 would be full so if 9 is 75% than what makes you think you would get the full BAH amount with 8 credits
Con — Prorated Payments — The monthly housing stipend will be prorated based on your “rate of pursuit” (the number of course hours/credits taken). For example a half-time student will receive 50 percent of BAH for their location; a three-quarter time student will get 75 percent of the BAH for their location, etc…While this change is fiscally smart, it will result in a reduction in benefits for many veterans.
We can extend unemployment again and again but we can't get our veterans a stable stipen payment so they can go to school without being homeless. Well the people we protected all the years we served voted for change and now with these changes we are getting just that pocket change. Thank you America!!!!
I couldn't agree more!!
Here, here. When people thank us, do they know what they are saying.
Stop crying! You get more than enough with this new GI Bill. Even if changes do come down the pipe you are better off than most. make it work.
It's losers like you that incense me. It is NOT crying, dammit. What IDIOTS like you you fail to realize, this is not a handout. This is part of the compensation for the extreme, and sometimes ultimate sacrifice we make for everyone. We are tax payers too. We give from every direction. Those of us who serve and actually stood the watch are already behind the power curve, once we are released in the civilian world. Society only need so many trained killers. No pun intended. Our education is crucial . So, when the bean counters want to save a few bucks, THEY NEED TO KEEP THEIR DAMN HANDS, OUT OF THE POCKET OF THE VETERAN. We have sacrificed enough!
As someone using it now, you still get plenty. I love when I hear other service members getting out and wanting everything handed to them. You're getting your school paid for. I'm sorry that you can't sit on your ass in between classes for free now. Deal with it like the many people that manage to make college work without having the majority of it paid for.
@Maurice…For real, stop crying. I have been deployed for 39 months total so i have plenty of room to speak here. You pay $1200 towards the benefit and expect to get $40k+ and BAH at roughly $1k per month. Now you're complaining that they are making it prorated based on the amount of time you attend school? so if you take one class for a couple hours a week, what are you doing with the rest of your time? You should be out working…that's why it's now prorated so people will stop sitting around looking for handouts. If you are so concerned about education, you should have used the FREE $4500 TA per semester that they give you. I was Active for 5 yrs and took courses while I was in to help prepare for getting out. Instead of getting a job you probably were looking for more handouts through unemployement because "I'm a tax payer who served my country so I deserve this". I had two jobs within a couple of weeks and never once drew unemployment. It's called responsibility.
Well stated…..
Don't forget the tax cuts for the wealthy. Folks blaming President Obama for all of this…you have to look at them all. I am retired military and work for the federal government. Have not had a COLA on retired pay in 2 years, federal pay will be frozen for 2 yrs, and I pay for my healthcare…when I joined it was promised to me for free! Things change and it is all about the dollar and the cents. When it comes to "saving money," the military folks, active, retired, veterans get the short end of the stick, but something is better than nothing.
If there is one thing I've learned, it's that there aren't many people who actually want to help veterans. The majority of people who have thanked me (not that I care) clearely did it to pat themselves on the back and thats what makes me angry. I've accepted that even as a civilins, we will always be there to take the burden.
The break pay is a big deal. The largest problem is because they're switching it half way through. I quit my job because I tried working and attending school. I know people always have stories about working full time jobs and going to school full time but it didn't work for me. Grades suffered terribly, not to mention alot of my computer science major requirments were only offered in one class a semester. I don't want to cut below full time because I don't want to run out of benefits and I'm already 5 years behind my peers.
Thank your Congerssman/woman, Senators and of coursr 'Mr. Hope and Change'.
Senator John McCain didn't vote for the Post 9/11 GI Bill, then-Senator Barack Obama was one of the original co-sponsors an suspended campaigning for president to fly to DC to vote for the bill. The vote was 92-6 with all six 'nay' votes and one of the non-votes (Senator McCain continued campaigning) were Republicans who voted against it because they were afraid that increasing education benefits would cause members of the military to leave after their contracts rather than re-up. So, your comment is unwarranted in relation to the president. (Note: the other non-voting Senator was Ted Kennedy, but he was recovering from brain surgery to remove a tumor and was lying in the bed he would eventually die in, so, an excused absence.)
Dumbasses like you keep America stupid.
I would like to know how many of you actually paid into your GI bill like I did. So you are getting housing allowance that should have never been apart of the deal the GI bill is to go to school not pay for rent and everything else you want. Maybe if you budget you wouldn't be crying a stream. yes I used my benefits I kept the old GI bill it works better for me. I am working on my graduate I have never had to pay out of pocket and I never got houseing allowance. So you can go to college even with these changes. I support myself.
Good for you and I hear you!!!
True that, I paid $1,200 in 1987 for the entitlements of the Montgomery GI Bill. The reason why the government cost went up was that not all users of the Post 911 GI Bill did not pay a single cent for their educational benefit but yet are complaining about the stipends. All this extra cost just increase the Gov't debt! People who did not contribute a single cent to the GI Bill, STOP COMPLAINING! You were just lucky to have this benefit. But remember, this is not a right! It is a benefit. So wake up and count your blessings.
Keep in mind that most folks that didn't pay the $1200 actually had to serve time in combat.
what does that mean???? People who paid $1200 did not have to serve time in combat???? I think ….OK, I know you are wrong…..
No, that's not wrong. If you paid the $1200 you automaically get the AD GI Bill. I paid the $1200, the extra $600 for the UP program and I deployed twice. But, because I transferred the 9-11 GI Bill to my children, I lost all that money I paid. It is what it is.
I served time in combat AND PAID THE $1200 thank you
I agree with mike. I paid and did 2 combat deployments. Quit your ********. Your still getting some money for something the fallen vets will never have the chance to do… So **** and get over it
I think what Bill meant was that some of the people that didn't pay into it that served in combat deserve it. Of course i could be wrong.
Same here.
This one baffles me, I signed up March 2009. I still had to pay the 1200 into my GI bill. Just like a friend of mine who signed up in July 2009. Those who haven't paid the 1200 into their account are brand new to military (af at least) and if they have deployed already they must have a high deploying tempo band. Of course other branches may not be the same. But its not a perk "you are going straight to combat we wont make you pay into the GI bill" thats not how it works.
well aren't you lucky … some of us have deployed 4 or 5 times .. and paid the damn 1200 …. so if you get the same benefit …. and DIDN'T have to pay the 1200 .. GOOD FOR YOU … I certainly hope you're not one of the million POGUE b****es out there who claim they went to combat.. LOL I mean did you REALLY GO TO COMBAT bill??? Are you Infantry ?? Ranger .. SF any of those things, because if you're not .. shut your pie hole … in essence your a glorified METER MAID
Despite what you have told you, today's battlefield is asymmetrical, e.g. you no longer have a front-line or the support elements protected in the rear. You will find that most of your combat-service support 'pogue' troops have more contact with the enemy while running convoys than your combat arms MOS' have going door-to-door. While there was a time when your opinion/experiences may have had value, you clearly have been boots on the ground in Iraq or Afghanistan. Also, the contempt and disrespect you have shown for your brothers and sisters is disgusting and suspect you may never have even worn the uniform.
AMEN! I lost my GI Bill (1606) yrs ago due to a paperwork glitch and some little stipulation. Well, I have two kids and still managed to go to college with little help. I use TA and I'll have some student loans but it is what it is. It's a bennie not a right. I do agree on the BAH changes however I'll just be qualifying for this my senior year (with one semester left) so the way I look at it whatever we get is more than nothing and is more than many had before.
As a whole I think the changes will hurt because of the lack of the pay raise and such this year. If the bennies were better I suppose the pay cut would be justified however both at the same time is simply not a good way to support those risking so much.
first of all before you start talking about those people using the Post 9/11 GI Bill not pay is the reason why the Government deth is like this you must do your reserch because some of them did pay and choose to use the Post 9/11 GI Bill so stop trying to put blame on the the other Vets using the benefit we all serve and have the right ot use what ever educatiomal benefit we are eligible for.
You are very right. The problem is people forget it is a BENEFIT… not a RIGHT
its a benefit earned through sacrifice, not welfare the like unemployment extensions and healthcare given to uneducated lazy Americans that dont want to get a job because they would make too much to get foodstamps
Actually unemployment is NOT welfare and it's NOT only going to uneducated and/or lazy Americans. It actually ONLY goes to people who HAVE worked and for whatever reason don't work right now. I agree that the GI Bill is a benefit earned however it is comments like yours, at least in part, and some others that reflect lack of education and create an atmosphere of divisiveness instead of creating an atmosphere that breeds solutions.
You deserve nothing but a swift kick in the ass, "deserving vet"
What about the educated rich folks who get out of paying their fair share simply because they can afford too? The tax cuts for the wealthy cost us enough and continuing the tax cuts for the is costing quite a bit.
…currently active duty…However I am married to a man who has been trying endlessly to find a job and went from making ~60k a year to a yr and a half of benefits that have ran out. Dont be so quick to judge about those "lazy americans" My husband spends just as much time looking for a job as I do working mine full time. By the way look at what government benefits lower ranking military qualify for…lazy?
While it is a benefit. Some people need to remember that this "benefit" was paid into by the veteran himself, regardless if they went in active duty or not. At least they didn't just sit around at home like most others that are sitting around voting on weather we get benefits or pay cuts or just become homeless. We need to remember that not all of us veterans have it as bad as the next guy. I agree with little John and the east side boys. We are all veterans or will be soon enough. And all I see on here is veterans ripping each others heads off.
And how many times did you deploy to frontline combat (IED's bullets flying overhead) during your time in the NAVY dumbass? I paid in in 1985 so don't even bother answering – I know. I'm still in (with multiple combat deployments as an Attack Helicopter Pilot) and have 3 sons eligible/using these benefits all with 3 tours or more. The complaints are valid, a broken promise is a broken promise. And that facts are that there is much other waste that should be stopped before promised veterans benefits should be reduced to recoup wasteful spending by a corrupt government.
Well said. I paid the $1,200 as well but I chose the Post 911 GI Bill instead because it was, like you said, allowing me to go to school without paying a cent out of pocket. I feel very blessed just to be able to attend college without having to worry about paying anything. All of these people who are constantly complaining should be glad they are able to get an education.
Agree it is a beni and a good one as well. As a single parent that worked overseas I had no choice but to come home and re evaluate my education after wifes death in accident. I will say i was working a job during break for extra money but was paying as much in child care as I was making. So yeah not getting paid on break sux. My kiddo is 3 and yes I paid the 100 a month for my first year.
Serve in a war, then maybe we'll give a damn about your bitching.
FYI. It's not about bugget, it's about what was promised to you. And yes when you enlisted it was probably while Washington was in the hot seat, so you were not promised this wonderful benifit. So you don't feel victimized, but these people WHO WERE PROMISED to goto school and not have to worry about rent and all other other finacial debt your generation put us in. Being lied to is bad if you are unaware of it. Your talking to these people as if you know there situation and you just sound like a person who did goto school and lost out on compassion. So go back to school and get a graduate in that and then come back here and be freakin nice, jerk. No one shares your thinking process. Also, you should consider running for Congress, you sound more thier speed. PS I fought for my country Twice and the GIBILL and post 9/11 process is a complete nightmare. I will be moving to another country were I will not worry about my children, marriage school, medical or my family value depleting as this guys obviousy has. Keep your chin up guys but keep in mind it is people like icebear that run our country. Get out while you can America has gone to hell in a hand basket.
If that’s why you enlisted, you probably shouldn’t of gone in. It’s people like you that are the reason good patriots will never see home again.
And it's people like you who make civilians think that we military folk are a bunch of morons.
hey miller, most of these guys complaining obviously arent riding the 20 yrs, im not. ive got two now with less then 4 yrs in, more time deployed than not, im a sniper and i didnt plan on getting out but priorities changed. ive served my stead and trained some fine killers. you can trash all you want but you try to go to college getting out as an a 3 or a 4 at the age of 21 or 22 with a family
I did not pay into the original GI Bill because I was not eligible for it, since I accepted Student Loan Repayment as an enlistment incentive. However, because I served 3 years past the 3 years of student loan repayment time, I am eligible for the Post 9/11 GI Bill. I am delighted to have this opportunity, of course!
I accepted the Student Loan Repayment AND paid into the Montgomery GI Bill ($1200). There was a stipulation for me to receive the GI Bill, however. I had to agree to a reenlistment in order to use the GI Bill or I lost the $1200. Now I'm being told that the $1200 I paid in will be given back to me in the form of additional funds (under the Post 911 Bill) to seek my degree or provide my child with school money if I decide to transfer the GI Bill to him. I haven't decided what I'll do, yet. My child still has 3.5 years until high school graduation and I'm active duty so I can use TA to seek my next degree…if only I could decide which Master's Program to attend.
How about we support eachother. We all know it is hard times and we earned whatever we can get. Lets not talk down to eachother, lets accept the differences and lift eachother up.
The best comment I've read here.
You are sooo right 68W. It's true, you made the best comment.
Get you head out of the sand icebear. The purpose of the stipend is not just for books and supplies…it's main purpose is HOUSING. Rent is paid on an apartment. Thus, Apartments are housing units the last time I checked the dictionary. Get with it and stop making false statmements. Go put your unsubstantiated comment on twitter or facebook where it doesnot matter, and leave this site to people who really care about their fellow vets. Unfortunately, I wasted my time reading your ridiculous comment.
hey dummy. only if you are regular military
Your a 100% correct. I have a fear that the military is turning into welfare program. I see people retiring and planing on how much disabilty they can get. I personal am sick of it. I have seen guys who work on helicopters with a 90% disabity rating and they are making 28 to 30 dollars an hour doing phyiscal work. They brag about it and it makes me sick. I am retired after 24 years of military service I feel lucky to be 100% heathly. The class of people going into the service was not what it once was and I fear it is only going to get worse. The military needs to change and the civilan leadership that is in charge needs stop making it a walfare program.
Your knowing malingerers who are taking advantage of the system has absolutely nothing to do with this issue. Speak of that of which you know, and otherwise shut the hell up.
Nice comment. Good to know you care about your fellow veterans. Glad you weren't next to me when I was fighting in Fallujah.
icebear, if you never had to pay anything out of your own pocket then you really aren't in a place to pass judgment on anyone who is worrying about making ends meet when their benefits are being jacked around with.
And for all of you who keep saying "get a job" I have news for you…we have jobs. BAH is not enough to live off of even if you do get it during the breaks.
Dude you paid 1200 dollars just like I did and you get it back in your last BAH payment so dont like its all unfair that some people did not have to pay, its not a big deal. And so we are clear, this means that on your 36 BAH payment of your Post 9/11 GI Bill, you will get X amount of dollars PLUS 1200 that you paid in.
shut up dummy!
I agree, way to go. Some people don't have none of these opportunties or benefits, count your blessings and work on being a better steward, it helps.
Counting my Blessings. I served a combined 24 years , 15 of which was Active Duty ( to include two call-ups after the Events of 911, which accounted for almost four of those years). I am a disabled vet and was able to go back to school under Voc. Rehab and then convert to the post 911 G.I. Bill. I never expected any of these benefits being made available to me. I am now working on my Master's Degree and I am very thankful . I was proud to serve and have no regrets…..the benefits that I have received after my service ( medical compensation for my disabilities and college tuition with pay ) very much appreciated.
oh shut the hell up!!!
You are all mess up I tell you, this housing allowance is similar to what was paid to the vets in Vietnam when their education benefits took place, so it is only fair that our era get something that is compatible. Read your history then make a comment. If you are saying we should not get this money for going school then all those vets in Vietnam shouldn't have received any extra money either, Wow people are something else.
hey icebear, old gi bill huh? let me guess you didnt join when you were 18 and are forced to start fresh with no real job experience because there is nothing that a guy who used to be a sniper can do make a normal buck? got a wife? got a car note? do you have lower middle class clothes, car, and furniture? ill put my money on that you are not young and you have money saved in the bank because you and your other half have been waiting on this for years and you had a non combat job with special skills you could use in society or skills you picked up before the service and you come from a well off family so during the pitfalls help was only a wire transfer away, dont sit there all high and mighty cause you faired, alot of these people are pissed because the gov took money from us to give money to us when all civies have to do is not work and collect section 8 or unemployment, not to mention my generation isnt going to see a cent of our retirment. I think I speak for the majority when i say all we want is consistency from our gov and the whole you support yourself thing is great but have you forgotten where you came from?
Some Veterans have disabilities which make it hard for us to be as well adapted as you are, so have some compassion for your own kind!! Learn to see beyond your own eyes! @HM2Lobato twitter
I think i speak for all of us that dont agree with you when I say BITE ME! Sorry piece of obama loving crap
Peachy for you icebear. Under the old GI bill there was no way I was going to get loans for school and use an "allowance" to help pay for loans and costs of living. Trying to work full time and go to school full time and be a family man full time does not work for me or most of the people on this forum. Congrats to you for making it work, but not everyone else can be like you. The only reason I even wanted to go back to school was to get the new GI bill benefits and now the Fat Cat polition phucks have realized that they are loosing money from the fund instead of making money from it. And FIY you have to pay into it to even use it!!!!!!!
SO DO YOU HAVE A FAMILY, HAVE YOU EVER BEEN DEPLOYED AND BEEN INJURED AND ARE NOW DISABLED TO THE POINT THAT YOU CANNOT GET A JOB????Well Mr. let me tell you before you go spouting off things that are only pertaining to your situation, my husband is. He is doing the best he can, I van't work due to a medical situation and neither can my husband, we have three children to support and many other veterans like us count on the housing allowance to make it possible to go to school. A lot of veterans were on medicaid when they were in the service activated, so their situation now is bleak. They paid into this GI bill hoping to have a better future for themselves and their families and they DAMN well deserve it given the shit they went through in the military(some worse than others) so don't go saying that your situation is the same for everyone else. I commend you for you ability to manage your money and schooling without using the housing allowance, but don't say others can when you have NO CLUE of their situation, ESPECIALLY if you have never had and do not have a family to support. Because SIR YOU HAVE NO CLUE!!!
Sounds like your upset that you had to pay into it and didnt recieve these benifits, but are still proud that you made it without them. The point some people are trying to make here is that they enrolled with these benifits and now to have such a major change and knowing that things are going to change in thier daily lives is a stressful situation wether it be about the GI Bill or losing a job or having a new baby. Theres nothing any of them can do about the changes and its probably scary for them so let them vent and stop trying to make them feel any less then you just because your circumstances were different then theirs. Im not saying I agree with how some people use their money but sometimes you have to do what you have to do to make it. To provide for your family or keep a roof over your head and food on the table and for some people this may be the only way they can for whatever reason. I hope that peoples lives improve, its becoming increasingly sad hearing how bad people have it even if you have it no better then them. Changes are constant and inevitable. You have to learn to deal with them and make the best of them. Its the army way, but it shouldn't mean that you can't be upset and vent about it.
Maybe the housing allowance should not have been part of the deal, but it was and to scale it back is not right now that it has been implemented. If you are able to support yourself by working part or full-time, then you are enrolled in a crappy university and have a cake job. I go to school from 0800-1700 and have anywhere from 3-5 hours of homework per night. Please explain to me where I have time to work with that type of schedule so that I can support myself. In order for me to work, I would have to decrease my enrollment to at least 1/2 time and work a crappy job to make ends meet which is unacceptable. On the other hand, I can continue on my current path where I will graduate a year early and will be earning a six figure salary as I already have various offers. Housing allowance needs to stay
You are wrong, the money is to pay for the cost of education and if you go full-time it is obviously for more than just tutition and fees. Even the schools consider your room+ board and transit. If you kept the old benefits it is obvious you don't study economics (or perhaps you had the college fund). BTW i paid 1600 in and wish that i never took the bonus and got the college fund instead…education is the greatest privilege!
SO If I am full time school, but currently only get 60% of BAH for my time served, what happens? It says half time is 50% so do I get 60% of that 50% for half time school? What does it mean for full time, do I get 60% of BAH for full time like I currently do? or do i get 100% for full time, since it also says 75% for three quarter.
If you are a full time student then you will recieve the full 60% that you are entitled to. If you are half time then you will get 50% of the 60%. Are you tracking now?
The reason I asked this is currently, you can not get BAH unless you are full time and the article says People will lose money. Who will lose money? if your not full time you don;t get it Housing, and if you are full time you get your full rate of housing. Sounds like most people will be GETTINg money.
I’m 60% as well. The way I understand it is we’ll get half of the 60% BAH for half-time, the whole 60% BAH for being full-time. Ex: your 60% = $1000. If you are a full-time student you’ll receive $1000; three-quarter student = $750; half-time = $500. hope that helps break it down.
If you don't understand what was written, perhaps you need more then school!
It means 50% of the 60% you are currently entitled to, for half time studies and 75% of the 60% for 3/4 time. The goal is to save the government money so that more people can be helped. Thanks for your service.
You don't have to be full time (as of right now) to get your BAH you have to have 7 or more credits to get it.
I called the VA Education Center at Muskogee on this today and I am pissed. Let's say your 100% rate for your city is $1200.00. You decide to take 9 credits out of 12 considered full time. This entitles you to 75%, or $900.00. Now, lets say you are 60% like I am. You are now entitled to 60% of the 75% rate, or 60% of $900.00, which is $540.00. Bottom line, your BAH just got raped. I'm so outraged by this. It's ridiculous.
yea….. that BAH change sucks.
For those that paid the $1200 for the Montgomery GI Bill and then switch over to the Post 9/11, once they use all the Post 9/11 entitlement they can use the $1200 they paid.
No actually thats incorrect. You can onlu use your chapter 30 first then switch to post 9/11, once you make the switch thats it, you cant switch back.
If you had paid attention when filling out your Post 9/11 application. There was a place to prove (with documentation) that you had paid into the Montgomery GI Bill. Which might, emphasis might, allow you to receive back the $1200 you paid in, once and only if you completely exhaust your Post 9/11 allowence. Honestly, it shouldn't matter if any of us ever see that $1200 again, we did our part paying in and the government did their part by paying for our schooling. Period end of story!
The $1200 you paid into the Montgomery GI Bill will be reimbursed to you when you exhaust all 36 mos of the Post 911 GI Bill. You will recieve the refund in the last BAH payment that is made to you. That is the process as of right now, hopefully it still will be when you exhaust your benefits. You are also eligible for up to 48 months between any 2 VA programs so you might want to check into seeing if you qualify for the additional 12 months of benefits.
really we did our part paying while people joining now dont pay um no i want my money back
Is this true about the kicker and may I ask were I can find this information out for my self?
so those of use that did not qualify for either during 1984-1985 and now get a GI bill should suffer. as Gunny say stop being a Jack Wagen.
maybe you should have saved your money when you were banking 2100/month. The GI Bill is to support you, not your entire family
that not true…if you have a family the BAH rate was considered for them too!
1.) All of you can leave your politics and attacks/support of the president aside for a less worthy discussion. In other words, post your bull on some worthless Yahoo Blog.
2. (and more importantly) This is utterly ridiculous. Way to let down millions of veterans and military personnel uncle sam.
American blood By. Reckless Kelly. Good song for frustrated vets. yeah i know it doesn't help the current situation, just thought you might like it. and this is BS
So, why are there politics on this site? Shut up and go to your blogs where you feel like you got a life.
"all of you can leave your politics"….. seriously, man? All of this bull is happening because of politics, because of the fundamental shift in the principles that America is funded on. People like you trying to keep people thinking that the division is "sensationalized" or that it's not for the realm of professional discussion disgust me! "The politics" are spilling out into our jobs, our security, our very city streets and you're gonna say that it doesn't matter??? YOU FOOL! WAKE UP!
If we don't get the politics right, soon…there won't be any benefits to bitch about!!!
I’m going to friggin go homeless because of this trash. I quit a job that supported me just fine to pursue my dreams. Not to go broke. If I have a two week time between quarters and I dont get paid for those two weeks then my bills will not get paid.
I'm in exactly the same situation, and it sucks, but its not like it reliably paid bills before this…
This last fall, I literally waited until the semester was a month away from over before I received a penny. I had already gotten paid for the previous semester, so it wasn't like I was new, but it took them four months after the semester started (like 6 months total) to start paying.
There are lots of places where we can cut the budget, but this isn't one of them. I didn't watch my CO and two friends die so I could be treated like a freeloader.
It's been like that for us already, whenever there is a week or two between quarters, I only get paid for the time I am in school so I have been only using 75% of the money during school to make up for the loss during any breaks between quarters.
Why did you quit your job that supported you just fine to pursue a dream? Why didn't you just keep the job and go part-time for the dream?
The GI Bill was intended to educate and train veterans so that they can get a degree and start a career, not to quit perfectly good, supporting jobs to go after dreams.
apparently youve never had a dream. Dont be mad bc you never had a good job to support yourself well enough.
I was able to get a summer job to support me over the summer break this year, but it's tough to get a job for only a month and a half to cover expenses between the fall and spring semesters??? Creditors still expect payment.
Horrible Horrible Horrible.
First they're paying vets Vietnam Dollars in a Post 911 world.
Second, they were 18 months behind as of March of this year. We went without for six months due the "loan" payback of 2010 from the checks we received 11/2009. We have not failed our government but our government is failing us.
Third, they still owe all of us six months of benefits from 12/2010-6/2010 while they were calculated what 'we owed them." We'll never see those dollars just like the millions in cash we saw given away in Iraq.
I don't see any "pro's." Anyone supposedly getting anything under the new bill that they were unable to get up until now will have to wait a very long and painful time for the veterans benefit administration to catch up. Meaning more borrowing from family, putting children to bed hungry and brothers sleeping in cars. Please line up the CNN coverage of families sleeping cars now so the VA can get a jump on the band aid.
Merry Christmas Congress. Sleep tight tonight. We'll hold the line you've drawn in the sand. Your thanks mean nothing, they're empty and bloated. You represent the "people." We represent your safety. Put a dollar figure on that.
We didn't volunteer knowing we'll be well compensated but every army lives on it's stomach. At least honor your contracts after we've done our tours. This administration and legislative branches are dishonoring the family I've left behind.
Honor our contracts and take care of our veterans. It isn't enough to admire us. We appreciate the respect. You can't eat respect and it doesn't give you shelter.
OH MY GOD, said vert well.
First of all thank you for your service. Secondly, thank you for putting into words of why I am so disgusted. Congress needs to see what the consequences are for their way of thinking.
Boo hoo, so they had to work late through Christmas; while troops like us are in harms way on 24-hour duty and not complaining. I went through the same thing Extended Spring Break Camp Bucca, Iraq style back in 2004. Those suits needs to see the blanket of security we offer and how cutting our benefits is unjustly. Congress needs to get a grip.
You should never, ever rely on anything that the gov't is going to give you. There are too many people on here complaining about not having enough money to live with these changes. Perhaps fiscal management courses, while active duty, would have served you well. It is never too late. Don't wait for handouts. Don't feel "entitled" to this money. Feel lucky that we get what we get. Yes, I am a veteran and plan to use every last penny of my GI Bill. And after it is gone, I will use my savings. Just a thought.
Not all of us have savings. Just a thought.
We are entitled to the money, because we were told we were entitled to it. If they had said "Join the Marines, but we won't give you any educational benefits," then at least they would be following their word. But we were told that school would be paid for, and now they are finding ways to pay for less of it.
Education is one of the reasons this country is so powerful. An educated populace is one of the four pillars of a successful economy. Reducing that reduces our advantage over other countries. Bad idea.
Damn straight! I can think of a few other (non-veteran) entitlement programs that could stand to be scrapped, too… medicare/medicaid/ss, unemployment benefits…
Umm actually it is an entitlement! Go back and re-read what it states. The name of the program is called GI Bill and Post 9/11 Benifits. <— Name only, Legal jargen DOES in fact make it an entitlement. And we live in america not little samalia were we have our hands out we fought fot those benifits IT"S NOT WELFARE PEOPLE! We gave up our freedoms in life the LEAST THEY CAN DO is pay us what they promised! To many people forget the reason why most of us really went in. Not to fight other countries and then come home and fight with this one too. IT IS AN ENTITLEMENT PEOPLE! Dont forget it.
Kel, Thank you. I don't understand why all these people are complaining. I got out of the service 4 years ago and am now finally starting full time school this coming spring semester. Why ?!? Because my family has not been financially stable enough until now. I worked my butt off the last 4 years, ensuring our debts were paid down and that we were going to be able to live off of just my spouse's pay, so that I could go to school, fully paid for with the Post 9/11 GI Bill. I even took a job away from my family for months on end. Bottom line is we need to be responsible for ourselves. Trying to live paycheck to paycheck and going to school full time while trying to support a family is really a dangerous way to live. And anyone who served in the military and doesn't know what "government time" is, wasn't really there. Just as you said never rely on money that is not in your hand!
I agree with you and Kel. I served and earned my GI bill and am just now using it 5 yrs after getting out for the same reason as you. I have been supporting my family while my husband went to school. Now that he's done, it's my turn. I'm going to use my benefits, but it's never wise to support yourself with the government's money – entitlement or not. When I look at all the other programs that are being cut, I feel lucky.
Agreed, agreed, and agreed… There's a whole lot of crying going on right now with compelling arguments from both sides. In my mind, being "entitled" to an education benefit or any other doesn't preclude one from reality. The good, productive taxpayers of this nation have to figure out how to make ends meet without living off the rest of society. Fiscal responsibility shouldn't be applied selectively. If I have to get a minimum wage job to support myself for the remainder of college, it's not the end of the world. It's reality.
Reality be what it is, how can you say that. We all served this country, something that a very small percentage of millions of americans ever do. Yes the money is entitled per the damn contract. And no we are not living off the rest of scociety, we are simply collecting what was promised (or at least we were). If you want to get mad at someone living off everyone else, how about americas nice fat underbelly of un-employed lazy fucks living off welfair just because they dont want to work. I did my part, and i sure as hell hope that since you commented here you did to. Otherwise go suck it, you dont rate.
If you didnt rely on anything the government is going to give you kel, then you wouldnt be a vet.
Agreed! Finally someone who understands personal repsonsibility. The military attempts to teach men and women how to manage not only their professional lives, but their personal lives as well. Everyone has to make adjustments and life wouldn't be life if we didn't have to endure changes. The bottom line is, we served our country and we are receiveing benefits because of our service. It's a benefit, not charity, or some handout. We should be responsible enough to pay our own bills and not create bills without the ability to repay them. Responsibility causes a responsible person to WANT to take care of his/her own business–without the goverment's assistance. I know the government and certain big busnesses are not the best examples of fiscal management, but we're all adults and we must not imitate bad behavior. Pay your owns bills and attend school as many hours as you are ABLE. GROW UP PEOPLE!
While i fully agree that one is responsible for ones self, you are still defending the hypocratical nature of our gov't. Its plain and simple wrong. You may argue the gov't has always been that way, and well its always been wrong. Its a violation of the contract we all signed. But i shouldn't expect you to understand this. The attitude you have displayed here is just like every other self serving staff nco i have ever had the miss-fortune of knowing. As long as your personal life is in order and things get done, you dont give a damn about the underdog.
Keyword here "TOP" is benefits. With your almighty knowledge I'm sure you can find the definition of the word. What if your "retirement benefits" were reduced? I'm sure you would be singing a different tune. I think if you look below at the comment about self serving NCO's you'll fit right in that category. Good luck when congress changes those (retirement benefits) as well. You'll be in the same boat we are.
Jack Wagen #2
Kel, people not taking fiscal managment courses in no way excuses the government for lying to its veterans. And yes the money is an entitlement, just as you were entitled to serve the duration of your contract they are entitled to pay what they said they would, thats the point of a contract. A legally binding document that ensures both parties uphold their end of the bargan.
There is a reason they are called entitlements. That's because we served and are now entitled to the benefits we agreed to in blk/wht. Now, we (chp 33) are pursuing an education on those ENTITLEMENTS, any change to them for the negative is a drastic one. You also need to remember not everyone comes from the same living situation. While you were saving, someone may have spent their savings to eliminate debt, pay medical bills, replace a vehicle, purchase a new home, etc…. I'm glad things worked for you. However, we are not all in your shoes. Do you have kids, car payments, child support? Who knows but you? I doubt it with a comment like this.
I started going to school after I broke my ribs and wrist at work. Workers comp' wont fix me, and I have to do what I can. I was making 40k yr, but fighting with lawyers and the broken system drained any money I had. I didnt get WC payments or SSD… The GI Bill is what's keeping me afloat. I had to get student loans this month for the first time, but of course I havent seen that money yet. Living off the $190 i got has been awesome. i have to move out of my home this month.
I gave up 5 yrs of my life to get these benefits. That was my purpose of going in. That was the only way to advance myself in life, because i had nothing.
Sometimes there are circumstances outside our control. So take that elitist attitude elsewhere. I have good credit (~750)despite being screwed royally by all levels of government. I pay my bills. I eat PB&Js to survive. i have no life. I do not have a spouse to help me either. I dont have family to protect me… Thats why I get so pissed reading these smartass comments.
Roger that. Service members get so much more today than they ever did in the past. I think it's a pretty fair shake. (Do people really think it was all right-wingers who got these benefits put into the military? The GI Bill started under FDR. That should serve as a hint that it was the same people who set up social programs in the private sector. Some people want to blame Obama when it rains. But I digress…)Look I feel like I deserve my benefits but the reasons why one joins the army are usually pretty personal and complex. It's a combinations of positives and negatives , just like life.You've got to be a little touched, so to speak, and that's a good thing. We all know people who more or less joined as a last resort ie the guy who went from sleeping in his car to basic, but that's not the typical soldier in today's army. Seems to be a lot of whining here. Makes me worried that we have already attracted too many of the types who are just in it for the bennies. I"m certainly not a passive person but I'd like to think I'm reasonable and magnanimous most of the time. Take the benefits you are given, go ahead and wish they were a little higher and soldier on!.
We earned this benefit. I don't care if you retired as a Chief or Captain or what. We served the time. They said we would have this if we had honorable service and then they cut the benefit. This is 0.000008% of the national debt that they are saving. They could cut something else that wasn't tied to serving the country for the majority of ones life. Just a thought. I do not care if you are making a thousand dollars a day or a month. These benefits were promised to veterans and they should receive what they were promised. If you are going to cut vets, what's next Grandma's social security… maybe she should have budgeted better also and not relied on the government. You going to tell your Grandma or your parents that they should have budgeted better?
That is a ridiculous attitude, I relied on the government to give me ammunition and quarters, and a paycheck, this entitlment (not privilege) was part of my pay.
On another note, I am glad you are using the whole benefit and then some.
The current administration is burning through money like it's cool and they gotta cut costs somewhere… and where does every liberal president cut funding when they are in office? The military. Should have seen it coming but hey at least you still get something and the fact you served makes you twice the man Obama can ever dream to be, so be proud of that. Be strong and be glad you were born in America and not North Korea.
The Post 9/11 GI Bill was passed by the Democratic Congress of 2007 after five years of non-action by Republicans during war-time.The vote was 92-6 on the final bill after Democrats defeated an alternative Republican version which offered less benefits and demanded more years of service to receive those reduced benefits. The six senators who voted against the Post 9/11 GI Bill were all Republicans (Allard (CO),Coburn (OK), Craig (ID), DeMint (SC), Kyl (AZ), Voinovich (OH)) and the two who didn't vote on the bill were Ted Kennedy (recovering from recent brain surgery to remove a tumor) and John McCain (who was campaigning for president.) Then-senator Barack Obama was an original sponsor of the legislation in the Senate along with Senator and war hero Jim Webb, and Senator Obama suspended his campaign for president to return back to DC to vote on the bill, though his vote was unnecessary for passage. The argument the six Republican senators gave for voting against the bill was that the benefits were too good and would likely lower military retention during the war by up to 16%. These aren't partisan talking points or opinions, Democratic or Liberal spin, those are the facts related to the original debate around the bill. If there is one thing my time in the military I learned it was to give credit where credit was due, from private to general, civilian to president, and to respect the persons who fill the constitutional offices I was sworn to protect. I show the values of the military when I Respect others and don't attack their character, show Selfless-Service through self-restraint and discipline, Personal Courage when I admit my initial thoughts or actions were wrong and admit them, show Integrity by only stating facts and not willfully misrepresent known data, and Honor when I live up to all those values simultaneously. I hope you reflect upon those values when you research the information that I've provided you and find them to be factually correct and stated accurately, and do the Honorable thing by recanting your previous post. Our country has enough enemies in the world without making up new ones; enough people doing horrible things that one need not accuse those who do not; enough flag-magnet-patriots who claim to support veterans as opposed to real people, 92 Senators of both parties to include the current president, who actually did something to instantiate that support.
You’ve posted an amazing thought-filled and factual response that was very well written. Thank you.
Great post! Finally, someone who states facts.
Thank you for post I pray that people will check out the facts you have here.
You are just plain wrong.
Try looking up which president gave us the largest pay increase ever.
Then look up which president extended the most new entitlements to veterans ever. Then eat a little crow.
Didnt know we had dumb people in the military. You must have gotten kicked out of school and got your GED, or gotten Kicked out of the military while you were a private because just about everyone(military or non military) knows that you have to be a U.S. born citizen in order to become a U.S. President.
As I recall, it may have been Taft who was the first one actually born in the US, while all those prior to him were born in the colonies before they became the US? However, since then, no president had a non-US birthplace. John McCain kinda did, but he never became president.
Rob what is it youre complaining about? Veterans are getting their education paid for and in some cases 10's of1000's of dollars worth of education. No way youd be able to get tha benefit with the other GiBills. if youre complaing about the BAH changes then people truly need to get off their butts and find something to do between the summer and spring terms.
Bush was the most fiscally reckless President in recent history. Clinton and Bush both were fortunate to be President during a long period of good economic years, but where Clinton kept an eye on the bottom line and even had a govt. surplus a couple years ( yes, they existed) Bush just through away the rulebook. You can't have 2 wars, not raise taxes and still spend money at home like it is peacetime (That's two cardinal rules there) but that's exactly what he did. I think it's easier in a sense to be reckless like that when you are a Republican president because you you can always just blame the Democrats for the inevitable problems and most people won't call you on it.
I'm kind of lost for words here about this. Seem to always hear about how much money is being spent on so many "pork" projects (consider Sen. Murtha's airport and memorial…billions! Nancy Pelosi's personal use of govt aircraft…more billions!) And you know pike I do, the list goes on. There's no excusable reason why anyone, especially vets should have to deal with this. You can bet your dollar that these guys kids not only go to school on our dime but, also get whatever funding they want plus. What a way to reward those of us who stood on the wall while you slept….dreaming of plans like this to jack a vet!
Former Representative (not Senator) Murtha and Speaker Pelosi's total expenses for what you cite were $23.5 million, with $23.4 million being earmarks from Murtha and $100,000 on air travel for the Speaker. Either way, it would take fifty airports to reach $1B, let alone the billions you claim. Also, Rep. Murtha was a Colonel in the Marine Corps. He was originally an NCO Drill Instructor at Parris Island during the fifties but then was discharged from service and went to school. When the war in Vietnam hit its bloodiest point, Rep. Murtha voluntarily left his civilian life (being exempted from the draft due to prior service, as we would be now if there were one called) and re-enlisted in the Marine Corps, earning a Bronze Star, the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, and two Purple Hearts. During his time in Congress he was considered Ronald Reagan's "Favorite Democrat" for his unwavering support of the president's military and foreign policy agenda. He most certainly was not one who "stood on the wall," while in uniform or not.
WELL IM SCREWED. I can not go to school full time and work a job enough to have the money i need to live. To stop the gap pay is stupid. I thought it was to help you go to school full time and not have to work extra hours to kill your grades. This is the government i spent 20 years defending F—- THEM
don’t forget to apply for financial aid. I get around $7K a year in grants …… Can by used for anything like gas, rent, food, books, clothes, computers etc. free money is waiting for someone to claim it
where do you find these grants? I have looked every where for extra help…
Any info is appreciated!
FAFSA, my friend…
http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/
All,
Everyone of use served and lead in some type of form or fashion. Have we forgot our military experiences. We were touch to servive and make it happen. Everyone of us know that if we are owed money, it will not come when we need it. We tell our juniors to put away for a rainy day. We are we totally dependant upon this money for everyday living, knowing we are in a bad economy and have to cut spending.
I am working full time, supporting my family, and going to school half of the time. Have we gotten soft to stop working. STOP! Think my military friends and remember your leadership training. Never depend on money that you do not have. Adapt and over come and stop crying. I spent 20+ years in the military and preach day after day to my juniors and seniors about getting your education before you get out. Because of this, I have a great job, not that far to go before I finish my next hire degree. What did you guys do when you were active duty. Now go out and tell the current active duty members your mistakes. My friends often ask me after they retired how I was able to get the job that I have. That is because while others was at bars, I was taking advantage of my TA. Now, why did you guys wait until the last minute to get your education?
It's kind of hard to go to school when you go from deployment to deployment. If you sat in garrison for a while then TA was an option not counting that if you get hurt in combat your out of the game.
Plus could of should but didn't its past tense these soldiers are talking in present tense not what they could have done.
If you really want to do something about these changes, then call your congressman.
Also, if you really want to do something about future changes, then BE your congressman (or simply get involved in the political process). We are currently managing our and our kid's future.
Yes, because that has worked so far. I don't need more "Thank you for your service, I am looking into xx situation" letters.
oh yeah just give them a ring your a retard.
Oh yeah, Chris, because that's done a lot of good. They say the same stuff everytime: "We here as representatives from xyz district take the thoughts and concerns of our people very seriously and are looking into the xyz matter you mentioned, the process is a tricky one, but we're working day and night on the problem. P.S. vote for me again"
Whatever…. I’m grateful to get anything I can get for my service. For the first time in my life I have a chance to attend college full time. Thanks Jim Webb (the senator that came up with 9/11 GI Bill in the first place)
I’m totally lost with all these new changes. If I’m full time and live 5 min from Campus, what does that do to my BAH? Jeez Mr. President just let McCain deal with the GI Bill reform, he’s a vet. He’ll take care of us.
Sincerely,
A non POG
John McCain was opposed to the Post 9/11 GI Bill and didn't vote for it. The bill passed 92-6, with the six 'nay' votes being Republican senators [Allard (R-CO) ,Coburn (R-OK), Craig (R-ID), DeMint (R-SC), Kyl (R-AZ), Voinovich (R-OH)] Their reasoning was that the benefits were too generous and would cause members of the military to not re-up and go to school (that was seriously their argument). Then-senator Obama was one of the original co-sponsors along with Senator Jim Webb (Navy Cross recipient) and stopped campaigning to fly back to DC to vote for it, while Senator McCain continued to campaign. So, your post is uninformed.
You're a friggin' idiot. McCain was against the new GI Bill and said it was too "generous". Why don't you do your homework before making such idiotic comments.
2/503 I normally don't do this, but 'YOU ARE AN IDIOT" But Really, do your homework before you post. Don't do it of spite. I think we call that Fallacies an Appeal to Spite! Do you know what that means?
and your post is called an ad hominem attack
Hey 2/503…John McCain was originally against the 911 GI Bill, Pres Obama was for it. Get the facts for yourself…don't take my word for it. I agree…the changes suck. But in this heated enviornment of smaller government; this meets the bill (would you prefer a tax hike to pay for guard and reserve troops?).
Proudly served 23 years…saved and invested my money; took advantage of the housing bubble (purchased a $400K for $200K) and bought a house cash. I pay federal taxes on my retired pay, capital gains on stocks and dividends; but i pay NO SSAN nor do I contribute to Medicare. No need to be employed, don't care if I every recieve Social Security. Now I can surf the net and read angry posts.
Lesson…prepare for the future and be self reliant. Inform yourself of economic issues that directly affect your situation…do not allign yourself with any political party! You will surely be disappointed! Only the 'Donor Class' (uber rich) & Big Business has the money and influence to affect change.
Don't look for handouts!
Well said!!!
I bet you receive retirement benefits don't you? What if those were changed? Just remember this comment when YOUR so called handouts stop coming in.
CAN I USE THE POST 9/11 AND THE TA ASSISTANCE AT THE SAME TIME IF I AM STILL A SOLDIER IN THE NATIONAL GUARD?
f@#k this bs. I'm so pissed.. F@#king give everything for this country and we get shit on. F@#k these politicians. Ugh!! nasties..
Thanks for your service to our country. Let's put this in perspective, you are being paid to go to school to learn – good communication skills will serve you much better than the language you chose to use. While it may be more difficult to work full time and go to school full time, some of us are doing just that. Grow up and suck it up.
Well if you had the old GI Bill you would not get the extra money anyway. I am a distance student because of where I live and the nearest school is 1 hour away and I have a family to take care of. It was not fair that we didn't get anything or those that that are disable and are home bound and can't go to a brick and motar school. Because you can go to a campus 3 times a week you get the housing money. What about us? WE are getting the same degree just in a different way, because of life. We should be equal across the board. At least they didn't cut the money all together.
That's why they made the changes, and that's a good part of this new legislation. It has good points and it has bad ones.
Yes, but POST 9/11 GI BILL that's why.
I agree that the funding for us should be the same. The reduced rate distance learners get is a SHAM. however it is a double dose, nothing replaces true contact hours.
Some of you have short memories…Mccain and other conservatives were against p911…Obama was a major supporter.
p911 isn't perfect, but it's something…oh, and if you're depending on the stipend to live, then…
as a sidenote, at least you don't live in the 1920's. Ever heard of the Bonus Army? Veterans were literally homeless and had no jobs, they marched to D.C. and demanded their money, and the military struck them down, killing some veterans and their families. So just realize it could be worse. They could take away the GI Bill completely if they wanted to.
It will happen wait and see…use the bennies now :-)
What's the point in mentioning that? I mean, seriously…wtf is wrong with you?
wha is this pay break? i never recieved any money this past summer nor for this winter break…how do you go about getting this or how DID you get this since they are not doing it anymore? did you have to apply for it or was it automatic…cuz clearly it wasnt automatic for me.
Break Pay is paid for the short breaks between semsters – not to exceed 56 days, so when school ended for the Fall, say Dec 18th and started up again Jan 10th, you received pay for the full month of dec and jan – which means you were paid for the 3 week break when you were not in school. If you attend summer classes, you got paid for the 3 week break at the end of May and the 3 week break in Aug before Fall semster started. If you didn't take summer classes – you were out of school more than 56 days so were not entitled to "Break Pay".
Well guess it's no worse than Bush Jr. cutting the veterans 1 billion dollars in his term. This is a drop in the bucket people. I bet if you really look into all of the details you will find its the Republicans behind all of this BS, Go figure. Oh well guess I will have to improvise, overcome and adapt huh? Grrr! I'm just finishing up my BSM and moving on to my dual Master. That's ok!! Get this; they say I only used 68 months on their computers However on paper I used 99 months? It's a glitch in the system, even though I had a interruption from a divorce and so on. That time still counted even though I wasn't in school? Yeah Ok!! That's ok I have applied for several other programs that can assist me from the VA.
Got some bad new for you. Effective Fall 2011 semester, you will be paying out of your pocket… VA tuition maximum is 17500 per year. I hope you YRP will pick up the tab.
This comment was meant to MA
There are too many whiners on here. I get $1980 a month and I don't do anything all day every day except go to 4 classes. We all have the easy life unless you have a wife and kids, which I choose not to do because I don't want the drama that you all seem to have. How is $2,000 a month not enough for you? I have $600 rent and another $400 in bills a month, which leaves me with almost $1,000 in my pocket. Many other 26 year olds would kill for that kind of profit for doing nothing. Get a job if you somehow have $2,000 in bills a month. I love you Post 9/11 GI Bill, none of the new rules affect me at all <3
i can understand what you are saying but I only get 1400 a month where I live and in an area where rent is 900 to 1600 dollars a month. My rent is 1065. if Ilive where you did then even with my wife and kids i could still go to school full time with only a part time job because my wife has a full time job. but because of the costs of living here I have to go to school full time and work 40+ hours a weak already. The benefits arean't always even across the board and they don't always line up with cost of living expenses. They are still great because we could be getting nothing at all. However, when you switch from one bill to another because of he way it is set up and then they take stuff away afterword, it messes up how you pay your bills and everything else. It is great that we get it but this change is going to make things a lot harder for almost every vet using it and impossible for some. A lot of vets want be able to manage staying in school and working enough for expenses and will have to drop out. The purpose of this bill in the first place was to make it possible for all vets to get a degree if they chose to. Now we are going backwards.
Sounds to me like someone needs to reduce your BAH payment.
Oh, wait…they're doing that. That's one of the good points to the legislation.
I find it amazing how all of these people who don't even go to school or who weren't affected by the changes feel the need to call other people whiners.
Adam Garai, for instance.
lol Rob, some people just need to stfu-yes you ADAM!! Now enjoy life when you are all alone and broke!
So Im guessing you picked some easy liberal arts major to just pocket the money. I quit my job to attend full time and it is anything but sitting on my ass all day. I quit work because I wasn't getting enough time to get school work done. We'll see how you feel with that 1,000 extra now when you're working at starbucks with your art degree.
i like your sentiment, but BAH is different in different places, and I bet you know now that it does affect you in other ways.
Well, not everyone lives like a cheap bastard, and is able to get by on spending simply $1000 a month; some common decency and shut the fuck up is in order….lol….You haven't a clue what life is like KID! If i lived like you I would feel like a bloated fucking king as well! Hope your arrogance and selfishness pays off in the end!
I don't want to tell other people the government's not screwing them over because I have no idea what their situation is. And I realize that the BAH being offered is probably not enough to support a family on (I'm single, so I wouldn't know about that). All I can say is that in my personal experience, the Post-9/11 GI Bill is amazing. I'm going to a private college that costs over $27,000 a year, but through the Yellow Ribbon program, I haven't had to pay a single cent towards that tuition. And I'm getting over two grand a month for a living stipend (my stipend has been increased due to my enlistment incentive of the Army College Fund). Plus they give me $750 a year for books! Seeing as how I signed a contract that only promised me about $70,000 (including the ACF) over 36 months for college (with no living stipend and no extra money for books), I am quite happy with my Chapter 33 benefits.
So you signed a contract with the AD Army while going to college? may not be what you did but my LT told me you could do that and that way you're tuition is paid in full at any college offering drill or ROTC. The catch is you have to do 4 years in the Army as an officer but shit that doesn't sound too damn bad. ANYONE KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT THIS?
What a bunch of whoosies grumbling about a little draw down… the BAH they are paying is more than the old GI Bill and they still pay for your books and tuition. BeJeezus suck it up and drive on… You are damn lucky you are getting paid to go to school and get a degree… if you finish. 28% of the population in the US have a Bachelors degree or higher… and the government is giving you a shot at making someone of yourself… and you grumble about a little pay cut? geez;;;; show me that stress card soldier.
It's not a paycut. Learn what you're talking about before you open the suck. The problem is timing, not total dollars. I'm glad you retired because you are obviously not very concerned about soldiers.
I bet if they cut your retirement pay you're going to be singing a completely different tune. I'll be happy to call you a wussie (jeez, you can't even spell it) and remind you that it's just a "little draw down."
I mean, most people have to wait until they're 67 or older to retire there, SFC. When did you start getting paid, huh?
Humble yourself people and remember what the word of God says. "If my people who are called by name will humble themselves, pray, seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and forgive their sins and heal their land." Use this formular people, it really works. Don't put your trust in man, put your trust in the one and only true Lord of all the worlds.
Please, spare us the religion crap.
Amen
I'm so sick of lost sheep always interrupting a real discussion with silly fake scriptures.
I don't know anyone else's situation but I KNOW there are some dire situations out there. The excitement of the Post 9/11 GI Bill has not waned for me, even though these changes will affect me adversely, as well. I will be graduating in May 2011 and I simply feel blessed. I don't fault others for finding fault in the veteran programs that are here to help us. I AM in awe of all of the hateful and unsupportive comments I'm finding here, on both or rather all sides of the issue. We have all done something amazing or have stood ready to. We are connected. Sure, in some ways we are screwed but in some ways we are more than favored. That's kind of what life is about. I feel bad for any veteran that didn't get the same opportunity I did but I don't feel entitled to what those after me will get that I didn't. I just feel blessed for what I have. God bless you all.
What a bunch of free loaders. No one ever promised when you signed the dotted line that college education is a handout! Be thankful for what you have and quit b1tching
Spoken like a true embarrassment to the military. It's D-bags like you that give the rest of us a bad name.
It's quite obvious that you have no education or intention to get one so just stay out of the conversation, okay?
Rob seriously, just shut the fuck up. Stop putting your retarded comments on here. Your not helping anyone by saying the things you do.
you didnt sign the same line as me then, and it is not a handout, it is pay (incentive…non taxable because it is educational)
I am a combat vet, and I have earned the purple heart which simultaneously has discharged me from the serce medically, but I don’t.regret it one bit. I’ve been going to school full time and in the summer in order to pay for my rent, which is 2800 a month(I’m a yankee). I also work.part time I order.to pay for my rent and my monthly things. I have a buddy who was also discharged medically a
fo his lower back.and he is missing both of his legs from the knees down.. he has PTSD and is embarrassed to find work, so he relies on the post g.I bill to pay for.his.rent, but now you’re telling me.that he should either go to school full time or find a part time job to pay for.his rent.. this is not fair for that devil dog… he has endured a lot bit still he can’t even finish his school without worrying if he will have a place.to sleep… and for.you guys that are saying vets are lazy and don’t.want to find a Job to offset their rent then you skated by in the military and did not really do much to give to.this.country for some.lousy damn rent money… how can the government give money to lazy Americans not even trying to find work, but.not a veteran of war who has been scarred for life…..
Why don’t you each collect disability from the va for your service connected injuries our medical retirement with combat related special compensation……
Very well said brother. well said. This is a fucking outrage
So the government is basically forcing people to go to school online and get a full time job. Great.
I hate to say I told you so. These politicians want to turn a free Republic into a communist country. They will continue class warfare and they will erode the Military. The President is building a Masque on ground zero, if there was any one whose opinion could have stopped it was his, so he is guilty also. Either we stand up a Sovran Christian Nation and endure for ages or we become part of globalization and pass into history as once was a Superpower. End of story.
So to prevent "communism" you wanted a president, any president, to tell a private religious group, using private funds, that they cannot enter into a free contract with another group which wishes to sell their private property to that group, while obeying lawful contract and property laws, from being able to build their buildings anywhere they would like? Yeah, that really sounds like something a small-government/free-market person would advocate. Who's the real communist Nightrider?
Nobody cares about you and your stupid mosque issue. Run home, little boy. We're discussing grownup issues here.
Hey 'NightRider'…you can't fool me, you're GLEN BECK! You idiot…go to FOX's blog and cry. Subject matter is too intellectual for you!
Wow, you reply to NighRider's comment by calling him an idiot and then smearing Glen Beck. You're a real intellectual.
I am a veteran who proudley serves. I worked for the post office for five years here in kansas city kansas for 5 years. I was released two days before veterans day without cause. You want to talk about treatment of our veterans what about that. I will end up in a meal line. THANKS US GOVENRMENMENT!
It was our own veterans organization that pushed these changes through…claiming it to be the best thing since sliced bread. Only thing is….Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America is a dishonest organization. Look at their website and they refuse to publish everything in these bills they lobby aggressively for….they only highlight the benefits and NEVER discuss any of the drawbacks related to their lobbying efforts . That is NOT the kind of veterans organization I want representing me or claiming to talk on my behalf.
Don't forget that the GI Bill "improvements" also put a nationwide cap on private tuition rates which severely affects those going to expensive private colleges in states that have expensive state schools. Once the GI Bill "improvement" is enacted some will have to pay tens of thousands of dollars in tuition out of pocket now when it was being paid in full previously.
Thanks for nothing IAVA….you dishonest sell out of an organization.
The original Post 9/11 Bill (even with its faults) was put in place by a Republican led Congress/President and gave Veterans something they sorely needed for a long time. Then the so called corrections are put in place by a Democratic led Congress/President. And people expected them to do the right thing? While there are a very few postives (mainly for distance learners) they are greatly outweighted by the negatives that were "slipped" into the bill. If you don't understand (political) History, you are bound to repeat it. It is the same old story, Democrats usually spit on the military veteran and the Republicans usually fully support them.
Look on the bright side, we have the Dream Act coming. Give nothing to America and we'll give you a free education…wait long enough and Congress will find a way to give them a 100% housing stipend too regardless of student status.
The Post 9/11 GI Bill was passed by a Democratic Congress [Public Law 110-252/ Date Approved June 30, 2008; Democrats gained majorities in both the Senate and House Jan 2007] after five years of non-action by Republicans during war-time.The vote was 92-6 on the final bill after Democrats defeated an alternative Republican version which offered less benefits and demanded more years of service to receive those reduced benefits. The six senators who voted against the Post 9/11 GI Bill were all Republicans (Allard (CO),Coburn (OK), Craig (ID), DeMint (SC), Kyl (AZ), Voinovich (OH)) and the two who didn't vote on the bill were Ted Kennedy (recovering from recent brain surgery to remove a tumor) and John McCain (who was campaigning for president.) Then-senator Barack Obama was an original sponsor of the legislation in the Senate along with Senator and war hero Jim Webb, and Senator Obama suspended his campaign for president to return back to DC to vote on the bill, though his vote was unnecessary for passage. The argument the six Republican senators gave for voting against the bill was that the benefits were too good and would likely lower military retention during the war by up to 16%. These aren't partisan talking points or opinions, Democratic or Liberal spin, those are the facts related to the original debate around the bill. If there is one thing my time in the military I learned it was to give credit where credit was due, from private to general, civilian to president, and to respect the persons who fill the constitutional offices I was sworn to protect. I show the values of the military when I Respect others and don't attack their character, show Selfless-Service through self-restraint and discipline, Personal Courage when I admit my initial thoughts or actions were wrong and admit them, show Integrity by only stating facts and not willfully misrepresent known data, and Honor when I live up to all those values simultaneously. I hope you reflect upon those values when you research the information that I've provided you and find them to be factually correct and stated accurately, and do the Honorable thing by recanting your previous post. Our country has enough enemies in the world without making up new ones; enough people doing horrible things that one need not accuse those who do not; enough flag-magnet-patriots who claim to support veterans as opposed to real people, 92 Senators of both parties to include the current president, who actually did something to instantiate that support.
Your stupidity is mind numbing….republicans love dumb uninformed people like you.
AMEN
Hello everyone, look, I think we need to stop all this down talking to each other. We're supposed to be a community of veterans and it doesn't even seem like it. If a vet feel they need to vent their frustrations with the changes, I would assume the ones he/she should feel most comfortable coming to is other vets. All I'm saying is we need to support each other more because we understand each other better than anybody else will, we came together in the military and we did amazing things, and I think we can do the same now if we stay together. Okay. Thanks for listening. Sorry about the rant.
Youre right! But I think we should all understand that the principles are what counts and it is important to get either some stability or some time to adapt from the government.
Typical of our leadership, Constantly reducing the benifits of the people that earned them [GIs and the Elderly (social security)]. What you will never hear is a reduction in any of the dozens of handout programs for the freeloaders and crack heads.
My old unit fought to get updated gear for over a year. How exactly would telling your congressman to leave the GI Bill alone help? It's all about money for these people. I'm sure that if maybe we all fought to make federal service mandatory so that maybe they would understand why we are pissed, then maybe they would think about changing things, but for now, I won't hold my breath.
Well Mr. Ice I don't know how long you served, but for those of us that retired we should get all post 9/11 benefits and more. we paid with all the time away from home, all the birthdays, holidays, babies first steps, babies first everything and all the other things we missed. Based on what you said you did a few years and got out. So maybe you were wrong to say what you said and if you are that person that only did four or so years maybe you should complain about aything. Oh and one more thing if BAH is not there to pay your rent what else is it for. maybe you should find out what BAH means Sir.
Regardless of what is happening with the new changes, I am forever grateful for what I have been entitled to so far. For all of you that will suffer from this change I hope you will quickly find other means of income. Going to school completely online and receiving over $600 will give some a chance to get decent jobs. We will never be fully satisfied with any decision. For now let's enjoy our break pay until Aug 11 and prepare for the roads ahead.
Okay, so I go to a school where they're winter and summer sessions, so it's not as bad for me, and I live in a small studio in a high BAH rated city. The winter break is about two weeks, and the summer break is a month between August and September. So thats about roughly two months of no BAH, plus there are ways to get cheap books and use the some of the book stipend. I quit my job late last year, because I thought that this would be the life, but even going to school full time (not having a family) I still feel lazy (when I'm not at the gym). Luckily I live in a city where jobs aren't as hard to find as some smaller cities so there are oppourtunities to start working again even if it's a shitty job, but hey, it will keep my bills paid during those break that will help me out for those couple months that I don't get the BAH. It could be A LOT worse. So I wish EVERYONE on here that will be needing a job soon the best of luck, and just remember that is doesn't matter what you do now, all that matters is what we did back then. :) Good Luch to All My fellow Veterans, and your families.
going to school online is not equal to going in person…sorry but this adaptation devalues your overall education.
I just wanted to put my comment on board. yeah it's a little messed up about the BAH, yeah it's a little messed up that our Gi Bill is constantly changing but it is not the end of the world. Some of the comments I have read have said that the GI Bill is just for paying tuition, get a job, be greatful for the benefits. I think thats all true. When you get $2100 a month and think you can live off that your crazy especially when you have a family. My suggestion is do what some real warriors do. Take advantage of your GI BIll, get a job, and refocus on your budget. Stop wasting money where you don't need to waste on. Use your knowledge that you get from school. Is in it the reason why your going there in the first place? If not , take a class on finance. It's a honor to have such a gift given to Vets. Their are some students out there that can't even get financial aid because of whatev er reason and they work crap jobs and still manage to go to school full time. Think about it. Life isn't easy, so why sould the Gi BIll be? Start saving now before your a drop out..!
Stop with the ******** about it being a gift… the g.I. bill is not a gift… it was earned. It is to help make up for the horrible pay and sacrifice of leaving your family for months on end or years for some people. Its not a handout. It was earned by every one of us. Saying that if you don’t like it to get a job is rediculous. This is not a free gift like welfare… it was earned with blood sweat and tears. So stop with the ******** about you should be lucky with what you have… like I said… it was earned and not a gift. That ****** me off.
It is sad to see such a tradition of entitlement being taught to young Americans. I am a Vet of 9 years, 26 years old, served multiple tours received the same “****” (actually very good) pay you have kieth. We must live in gratitude that our nation can’t even afford to pay for their own groceries right now, yet they are still giving us benefits that are UNREAL to pay for college.
Please tell me where in our constitution are we granted the G.I. Bill or even education as a human, or even a civil right? It’s not one. Those blood, sweat and tears pay for freedom, liberty, and independence, not school. Learn to budget and sacrifice and you’ll soon see that the benefit received through our benefits surpasses the income of most ALL of our fellow students, mind you even some working full-time.
I oblige you to rethink the word “independence” for a moment. Please look it up if you have to… that is the cause you’ve enlisted to defend, while I’m afraid you’re displaying an attitude built upon it’s antithesis, “dependence”, the hatchet chopping at the lifeblood of our nation. Smile upon your service, it is commendable, now turn around with the rest of us and get back to work.
dont understand the rhetoric, we all worked hard and this is essentially part of our paycheck. If they didn't have it the all volunteer force may not even be possible.
Thanks for the good words Todd. If any of you have a minute I’d like to ask a quick question. I’ve spoken with my Career counselor and she can’t seem to find the answer. So I’m hoping someone here can give it to me straight. I’m currently completing my first tour. Once I return I’ll have 14months cumulative. Under the new provisions, does this mean I’ll earn 60% tuition, 60% BAH, and 60% books? Also, I only have 29 hours left to complete my B.A. Can I use the benefits for the 29 hours AND a masters if I decide to pursue one? Any information you guys can give would be great. Thanks.
You're A Loser!
Wow…lots of Obama attacks here. Without the GI Bill, I wouldn't be in school, period. I think many of you are given an inch, and then expect a mile. I understand the sacrifices we made and I was in Iraq in 2003, so yea, I feel some entitlement but I ain't gonna sit here and piss 'n moan about this.
God-willing, i will retire in 2012, and I'm wondering how many changes, for better or for worse will there be in regards to the Post 9/11 GI Bill prior to my retirement. I'm afraid this benefit will have dried up by then. I hope not, and I'm prepared to pay for my own college, but I have to wonder how long the government will continue this. Time will tell. Stay safe…
STOP COMPLAINING. WE ARE GETTEING MORE SUPPORT FOR SCHOOL THAN WE HAVE HAD IN MANY YEARS. I SERVED OVER 20 YEARS AND THIS NEW EDUCATION BILL IS MUCH BETTER THAN THE OLD GIBILL. IT IS NOT PERFECT, BUT AT LEAST YOU ARE GETTING SOMETHING. I WORKED PARTITIME WITH NO STIPENDS AND PAID FOR MY SCHOOL AT A GOOD SCHOOL WHILE TAKING CARE OF A FAMILY. USE SOME OF THAT MOTIVATION AND WORK ETHIC YOU GOT WHILE SERVING.
Jeez, you'd think that after all these years of most people using the internet the word would have gotten out about how you shouldn't type in all caps BECAUSE IT'S EFFING IRRITATING AND RUDE!
Ha you MTFRs stop crying be thankfull you even get anything.
Although, the reduction in benefits is not good news for me personally, it is still good news for those students who are only going to school half time. Now they can get a housing allowance AND an education. Be thankful that we can even get a housing allowance
Those going to school at half time (51%) have been receiving the Full BAH, now they will only receive 1/2 that amount
1) Unemployment is just as needed for the families receiving it as the GI Bill is for the Veterans receiving it. Stop complaining that hard working people that had their lives destroyed by an unregulated Wallstreet and the resulting economic destruction they wrecked are not deserving of that money. They can't just "get a job," there are very few jobs to get. If you know one person scamming the program, that doesn't mean it should be taken away from the thousands that desperately need it right now. Maybe you should instead write one of the Republican Senators that felt it was more important to keep tax revenue that could have funded all of these programs and more from the millionaires that not only caused this mess, but have profited and keep profiting off of it, as low as possible.
2) To those claiming the vets currently on the GI Bill should have saved their housing stipend rather than blowing it: you are incredibly ignorant. College prices have gone through the roof, many State college's host tuition's almost as high as private institutions now. Their housing costs are just as exorbitant and growing every year. What many of you who are making these claims don't understand is that the housing allowance is LESS than the money granted monthly on the Chapter 30 program.
3) To the vets coming into the program: I feel for you, you were promised a program that would protect you from ever having to take out a student loan again as long as you gave your 4 years. Sadly, that was a lie, most vets and myself have had to take out loans to make up for the short-falls of the program. Take comfort in the fact that at least those loans will not be as high as they otherwise would.
In ref to #2) your only looking at the dollar amount MGIB pays vs the BAH money. Those using MGIB have to pay their tuition out of their monthly check – while those using Post 9/11 DO NOT.
Amen….. I find it funny that the G.I. bill is touted as one of the benefits for the horrible pay and lifestyle and family sacrifice that we all have to do. It is a benefit to help with the scrapyard stuff in the military…. then when you get out all a sudden it is a. “Gift” that you should just be happy with. This is not nor ever was a Gift. You earn that G.I. bill. Period. And for you people who said 20 years ago you didn’t get nearly as much for school… no ****! I am tired of people saying.g its a gift.
What is all the fuss about. If you don't like the benefit that you will be receiving then drop out and get a jpb. I for one have a job and go to school full time and some months three fourths. All the money that I get for going to school is just gravy and a way to save some extra money and pay off some bills and get a free education. If you are using the money you get from the GI Bill to live then you really need to rethink your plan. So when you finish school what are you going to do. Oh thats' right you are going to get a job with that new degree you just got. News flash there are a lot of people not working that have degrees.
Ultimately you and all working students cheat yourself out of education. for every hour in class you should do three outside… I decided not to work and graduated summa cum laude with a 4.00 and picked up as a researcher as an undergrad (which ended up being a paid position). Full-Time should mean full-time and educatuion is the goal, the sheet of paper is just that.
Perhaps our Great Nation could afford to increase the benefits instead of cutting
corners of 2011 Post 911 GI Bill. This will adversely effect most current Veteran students and all future Veteran students.
Here are some other ways the USA could reduce the deficit.
1. Elected official could get rid of there Perks . Maybe they could drive there own vehicle to work and pay for their own gas and food.
2. I can't afford a vacation this year like most working Americans. Maybe the politicians can cancel theirs is well especially the ones we pay for like flying the family home to Hawaii or a luxurious family reunion in Spain that our taxes fund.
3.We could invest money in our own country like or horrible interstate highways
that are crumbling or sheltering our homeless and hungry; All we have to do is quit rebuilding Islamic Nations that hate regardless and will continue their own form of ethnic cleansing and genocide as soon as we leave. Oh I forgot they still kill each other when were there. Things are good in Iraq now just read about the death toll. How many 911 hijackers were from Iraq? Oh yeah none. And we all know how president Karzia and the Afghan people are happy to have us there. What ever happened to good Ole Fashion Carpet Bombing and Napalm MMM shake n bake.
4. WTF where is Osama Bin Laden ? I guess we can't look to hard we might have to stop this Heroin war.
5. But the obvious choice is cut Veteran benefits that they actually earned.
No more kool aid for me. Our stories from the Hall of Lies.
Quit wasting American Lives!!!!!!!!!
thanks for reading NFDL
funny…the same people screaming at the top of their lungs that we should cut the deficit starts crying the second something dear to them might get the axe…hhmmm
It looks like the bill has NOT been signed into law. http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=s11… It also looks like since congress has adjourned and it will have been 10 days since it was given to the president(I think the 16th but it could be the 17th) starting tomorrow then the bill will be pocket vetoed and not become law. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pocket_veto If anyone understands the law or knows anything else about this let me know because as far as I understand it – either the bill gets singed tomorrow while the president is in Hawaii or the bill dies.
Tomorrow is the last day that the president can sign the bill as far as I can tell since it was presented to him on the 16th so unless he signs it while in Hawaii then the bill will be pock vetoed and the bill will die since congress has adjured. If anyone knows more about this let me know.
So how do we access these funds and payments? I go to a private institution and have been there for 3/4 of a decade but will be graduating in May. Under the Post 9/11 GI Bill I currently get 40% of full time tuition. I have received one or two housing stipends, but since I've gone under full time, I don't receive the housing stipend which would really be beneficial, however Voc Rehab has said if I got the VA housing stipend, I could not receive the VR housing allowance. How can I sort out the details to access the most amount of funds for my last semester both for tuition and housing. I'd love to figure this out for my last semester. Also will the Post 9/11 GI Bill help pay for Grad School?
Cut the housing allowance during breaks? That's awesome. For those of you who are saying, "Be grateful you even get this," or, "It's gift" it is not a gift. It is an entitlement. It says so when you sign your contract. And that entitlement is earned, make no mistake about it. Way to go, America. Cut Veteran's benefits after they have given their blood, sweat, tears, limbs, friends, and even lives to this country.
Figures, nickel and dime the vets. Is it not enough we sacrifice life and limb? I guess that's what we get for serving our county. Hell of a "Commander and Chief", way to look out for the protectors of the free nation….
I don't mind paying my own way and all, but we were offered education benefits. I have to go to school out of state as there is no school in state offering my degree. I prefer to give my energy to studying and volunteerism, however, I will work if necessary. The issue of common sense prevailing simply says that rent is not optional during school breaks.
I was so excited about the potential of this Bill, as a full time Volunteer that works over-seas. The full time distance learning BAH option was great, But 600$ a month, really? Oh well….. I guess, I will drop out of school and save my benefits until I get back to the states. :( :(
How about giving the VA enough time to to update their system so people don’t have to wait months for pay. I had to wait five months AFTER I switched to the 9-11 to even start getting paid. I think the system we have right now us decent enough and doesn’t need to be revamped that much. D.L. and things like that, yeah. Everything else leave alone. And give the VA enough damn time to impliment
First off I am a disabled veteran of the Iraq conflict that still serves as a reservist and attends school full time. I feel that the changes to the Ch.33 benefits are reasonable. If you dont go to school full time why should you recieve a full housing allowance? Your BAH rates are protected. Veterans unable to attend traditional courses still recieve a partial housing allowance which I'm sure is a great help to them. In the end being a veteran doesnt mean a free ride. If your a soldier its time to Ranger the F up and get the job done. If you dont go to school full time then you obviously have time to work and cover what the housing allowance doesnt. I support you in saying that the regulations on Ch.33 Benefits change so rapidly they have become an unreliable source of income and you should only incorperate these benefits into your budget once they have been awarded to you. To Uncle Sam… Make up your mind already! When I was younger we called this "Indian Giving."
OBAMA really hates and resents Veterans. Where was he on Memorial Day or on Veterans Day? Everhthing he does is always in favor of the Bad Guys or other countries and always against Veterans.
They just appoved unempolyment for a total of 3 years that is greater than many enlistment terms next give all of the non working crackheads free healthcare paid for by everyone else.. so, now take away from honorable Veterans to pay so that others can buy beer, and weed.
We have no real Voice the VFW is a joke and elected officials worse.
All you can do is spread the word to EVERYONE.. this sort of thing is taking place throughout the Goverment unchecked. Obama is dismantling America under instruction
I'm still baffled by the question "how many of you paid for your GI Bill"!!! This is a bunch of alleged college students, AND VETERANS….with the exception of a few offspring that more than likely grew up living with the damages done by their parent's service…I limp to class every day trying to make a stable future for my kids because, after they broke me, I wasn't worth their time. Good thing I can at least jump through hoops, right? I paid for this pseudo-thank-you that they give us, and the rest of the time I work my butt off in a "student job" to make ends meet. One thing is clear though, the recruiters were just the first of many to lie to us…and anyone that spent time in the service knows you don't get anything from the govt without a little bit of bending over.
You may be able to get an extension to total 48 months of benefits.
All i hear are a bunch of cry babies on here. Shut up and be freaking thankful that you have anything. Before you start calling me names I am a disabled vet and so was my grandfather and uncle and they got jack s*&t in the way of benefits. So put away the baby bottles it is time to grow up. I think it is great that Uncle Sam is willing to help me at all with higher education. It is not a right that you get this help it is a privilege. Cry Babies!!!
so you consider your paycheck help?
It's time to stop you're "belly aching" and recognize that you''ve been had- where are those darling conservatives who talk a good game "thank you for your service" creeps, who, by the way, didn't want to fund the 911 first responder bill? Oh, but when the camera is rolling they are quick to extol them as heroes. Unless you're rich, lets face it, you really don't count.
The only way the government saves money by taking away BAH during breaks is by getting vets to quit school and not use their benefits..
If they only pay BAH while you're in class, that means that they're paying both BAH AND tuition. When they pay you break pay, you only get BAH but it counts against your total entitlement time the same as any other time.
If people actually use their 36 months of benefits, it costs the government MORE to not pay you break pay.
Allow me to clarify what I just said…
Under this new policy, every month used against your 36 months of entitlement will now include both BAH and tuition. That actually costs the government more money assuming that you use your benefits.The way it is now you can be paid for a break month, which means that a month of benefits only includes BAH (no tuition).
Either way, you get 36 months of benefits, but when about 6 or so of them are BAH-only months it costs the government less money.
1. In reference to the Post 9/11 Education Benefits…I served in Afghanistan and was not able to receive any benefit as I did not spend enough time in the country to get it, although I was told that no matter how much time you spent over in theater, that it was a benefit that I would get.
2. I’ve spent a total of 17 years in service so far, and have gone back to school to get my degree and for a $40,000.00 degree program only paid $12,000 out of my pocket for it…and that was only because I received a $4,000.00 grant for working so hard in maintaining a 3.84 average throughout my major. I did not recieve a housing allowance, although it was a distance learning school in a different state. I was working full-time for the Air National Guard, and going to school full-time classes. Quite the achievement indeed. I am thankful for the help of my VA benefits which were a priveledge, not a “right”. I suggest that the reason that you joined the military surely was not for the education benefit, but for the ultimate sacrifice and love of of our great nation to keep it free…not to get free benefits.
you dont consider you paycheck free benefits do you? Dont suggest my reasons for joining the military, I did it out of self-interest and throught the time I served I ended up appreciating the fact that I could give back to this country. I just want the same level of order that was expected from me in my duties; this sneaky nickel and diming hurts me, so it is obviopus that those who have families are really hurting bad by this.
What are you complaining about guy? Yeah you got 2100 dollars a month under chapter 30 but how much of that went to tuition? Since under chapter 30 you're responsible for paying tuition. With the 9/11 you don't have to pay tuition, the VA pays the school, and you get a living stipend on top of it. What'e the problem? And why would you have to move? With this new change you will actually get paid by the Post 9/11 to take online classes. Also, the living allowance is based on the zip code of where your school is located. Plan for it. No one said the housing allowance is going anywhere.
Wow…..5 courses away from a bachelor's degree and you still don't know the definition of the word gay. I thought education was supposed to end ignorance, so it must be that you're just stupid. I'm willing to bet that you don't even know the difference between those two words though, so bust out your dictionary to make sense of this post.
Anytime a government starts paying money that it doesn't have, the taxpayers (and especially the veteran taxpayers) can expect to be involved in providing the funds to make up the difference. A deficit doesn't go down unless "extra" money is found to make a figure have a negative in front of it instead of a plus. With our current uncaring leaders, you can expect they'll come around to our veteran benefits to look and see what can be had. Anytime a person starts their tenure with the idea that a veteran should pay with personal insurance for their VA medical services (which was backed off of only because of the loud and immediate outcry), you can surely expect them to come back around and see if they can grab something in a different, less offensive (to the general public) way. Some wanted change… they're getting it.
Think outside the box here a bit… Government has spent more money in the past 2 years then all presidents and their years combined. They need more money to spend or pay for what they spent. Less money from post 911 equals increased demand on federal school loans. The ignorance of US citizens and most likely illegal immigrants put and keep these bosos in office. The lobbyists help them stay in office as well. One day maybe US intelligence will increase and decent people will be in office. Maybe one day the government will uphold the constitution to ensure those in the oval office are in fact natural born.
I am a prior served military spouse/military brat, sister. My family starting with ly great-great grandfather served this country proud since WW1. I am greatful for all privileges they were given weather it be life for our country, education for service, life for our freedom, or life to be free. I know it may not matter but for amy who are not happy with the post 9/11 you had a choice of either to keep the Montgomery G.I. Bill or the Post 9/11. My husband choose the Post 9/11 cause of the benefit of the BAH which I am very greatful of. The only prblem we have when he is on break and we get partial pay but thank god I have a job and can make up the difference. I am lucky if I see my husband for 2 hrs a day he is working very hard to keep a 3.89 GPA and being the president of a national collation and A school collation. So if you are not happy with the Post 9/11 that’s your fault you made the choice and greatful you got anything because my great-great grandfather, my grandfather, my dad, my uncle, my two cousins, and one of my brothers were not fortunate to have this oppourtunity like my other, my husband, and my brother-in-law. So be happy with what you got.
This is terrible. I just read the news about the prorated BAH. I am an AD soon to be retired veteran of 23 years. I have been looking forward to getting out and finally pursuing a quality education by taking advantage of the Post 9/11 GI bill. I planned on going full time anyway, but the cuts and nit picking of reducing the amount of living expenses, completely aimed at allowing a seasoned veteran to achieve a hard earned degreee, is terrible. I only hope that it will not be a nightmare Fall of 2011 like the article suggests.
screw the congressmen and women senators and all politicians, you say call youor congressman for changes or complaints, but by doing so you are wasteing your time and breath. They are the problem so why would they care to listen to our complaints about them? I say get rid of all the politicians that are in now and get new ones. And if the new ones start out like the old ones then replace them at first sight of negligence….
Wow! What a bunch of Cry Babies. All of you who are bitching and complaining on a message board instead of to your electded officials are like the people that were given a free car by Oprah and then cried how unfair it was to have to pay the 6% tax. Or, you could be compared to the guy on the news that demanded an extension of unemployment benefits past his 99th week. Really? Ask any Vet who was eligible under VEAP and see who has the better deal.
MSgt
USMC Ret
Just to put everyone at ease, I just received correspondance that I requested from the VA regarding this issue and this change will not be in affect January 2011. I also received an email regarding this confirming that the site is stating from pure speculation because that change has not been denied yet they are still talking about it. NO VOTE HAS BEEN MADE!
Enter text right here!I know it won't make me popular but I don't understand the outrage, when I enlisted I don't remember any promise to pay a housing allowance with my GI Bill Contract. I was pleasantly surprised when I returned to school and found out about this amazing benefit. Yes it will be tough to adjust to the change, but I'll be thankfull for it while I've got it. For the record I'm an 18 year disabled USAF retired. I'm proud of my service and feel blessed by the benefits afforded to me by the American taxpayer.
Its kinda funny, I served 8 years in the Corps and never asked for a thank you. I see all these whiny people on here complaining that they're dropping out of school because of the changes or waited 20 plus years and didn't take one class at all when they were in. Those people are lazy don't be one of those people the GI bill is meant to help not SUPPORT you. The secret to being successful is simple, be the best at whatever you do. That means hard work, imagination, and a positive mental attitude. Anyone feel free to disagree I'll just crush you with my degree that I EARNED while using the old Chap 30 bill.
First of all the BAH Rates are based on the cost of housing in an area and they have been adjusted up and down for years, mostly up.
If you already are receiving the 9/11 GI Bill your BAH will not go down, just as when you were on active duty.
I have to agree that if you are not in classes you should not be getting benefits, there is nothing thats keeping you from getting a job in the summer or going to summer school, to keep the benefits going.
The changes are now going to allow your brothers in arms who have been on a title 32 AGR and did not deploy but worked in the background. To get the 9/11 GI Bill. If we were not in a tight fiscal economy I would agree that the changes would be drastic.
I hope that everyone has a safe and happy new year.
You're an idiot,
People don't get paid for taking the whole summer off. They only get the break pay when they take summer classes. The break pay covers the 2 weeks before summer school starts and the 3 weeks after summer school ends.
Who hires people for 2 weeks?
For those of you who say "get a job during the break". This is MUCH easier said than done; no one wants to hire people for a month during the winter break, or two weeks between Spring and Summer semesters. Also, I have yet to find a business that wants to hire me part-time because they want me to "be available" when they need me. The bills, however, never stop.
On the flip side, I choose to go to school full time, and maintain a 4.0; and since I want to spend time with my family rather than work, I am using grants AND loans to budget throughout the year. This change will make things harder, and I do feel that we are getting screwed; what kills me is that if we raised the taxes on those making 250k+ and stopped giving multi-billion dollar corporations tax write-offs there would be plenty for every vet to go to school full time, enjoy their family, and NOT have to work just for a little while. Some of you may say I am being lazy, or whatever else; to this I say, I spent enough time away from my family in Iraq, came back and worked 20 hr days, and never b**ched or complained, I feel I have earned the right to spend some quality time with my kids. As far as the BAH, I earned that too; I fought for it, and if that is not enough, I paid my taxes since I was 18, so I paid for it too!
I am very grateful for the post 9/11 gi bill it has helped me a lot since i have gotten out last year and I have been taking classes non stop because to me the use of this benefit is a job. beside one B+ i have gotten straight A's. so maybe they should keep the break pay if the veteran has a GPA over 3.0 which is not hard to do. Also last time i checked receiving the pay during the break is an option that you have under the bill and when you do receive they pay you take away from your total 36 months. so for congress to take away that choice and money is just wrong. especially when you will go from getting the housing money that you use to pay your mortgage, rent, etc to studying for finals and worrying about finding a job to make sure that you will still be able to pay your bills during the break with no money. also spring break is not an optional break and it is just a week long so to me there is no point removing the pay from that break because the week is part of the semester being taken away from the 36 months of the gi bill.
I am a texas born and raised Vet and i do not currently have a President.
Or a brain but you are not whining about that.
I read the entire bill thoroughly, and unless there was language taken out of it before it was sent to; and passed by the Senate on Dec 13th; and the House on Dec 16th, there is absolutely nothing whatsoever within the bill eliminating "break pay". Also, I found a piece of language within the bill that I believe will be a big help in fighting back. That is, if you have the patience and willingness to go forward with it. Excerpt from the bill is below; it speaks about the "effective dates", and the wording of this leaves a little wiggle room for the argument that the housing pay issues should ONLY affect veterans who apply and start school after said date. If you have already been pursuing your program of education and receiving your benefit, this wording here is the "loophole”, or the “mess-up” they made while attempting to rob us of our benefits. Emphasis is on "for pursuit of programs of education on or after that date".
"IN GENERAL- Except as provided in paragraph (2), the amendments made by this section shall take effect on August 1, 2011, and shall apply with respect to amounts payable for educational assistance for pursuit of programs of education on or after that date."
Email me for further explanation. cmbruno25@gmail.com
You did read the final bill and last provision section 206:
SEC. 206. MODIFICATION OF AUTHORITY TO MAKE CERTAIN INTERVAL PAYMENTS.
(a) In General- The flush matter following clause (3)(B) of section 3680(a) is amended by striking `of this subsection–' and all that follows and inserting `of this subsection during periods when schools are temporarily closed under an established policy based on an Executive order of the President or due to an emergency situation. However, the total number of weeks for which allowances may continue to be so payable in any 12-month period may not exceed 4 weeks.'.
(b) Effective Date- The amendment made by this section shall take effect on August 1, 2011.
What this mean Chris, is the only time you will get break pay is when the president declares a national emergency or national disaster (like katrina) and only up to 4 weeks.
Mr Howell knows what in the bills before he writes an article that has such huge impact.
University of Phoenix has openings lol
its amazing to me how many of you former military are so naive and argue with one another about problems we did not create….how about using that college education and stop arguing amongst one another and start lobbying where your arguments can be heard…have some pride and for the love of god stop acting like a bunch of cherry privates.
So if I’m living in the area of my school, and the BAH rates in my area were one of the few areas that have raised, will I see that increase? The language for this (like the language for all bills) is misleading. The one part that I can gleam from this is that those who would see less of a stipend are protected, and will continue to receive what they did in 2010. Which is fantastic. But for those of us, who are living in a higher cost living area to attend school, can get more money to make ends meet, I would want to know, and many others on this board too, I imagine.
Stop raping the veterans, I quit my second job to attend school relying
much on the break pay too. I have a fucking 3.56 gpa going into the toilet now,
fuck this country that took 8yrs of my life, sick of planning my life around this bullshit.
Hear Hear Mr. President, Let John McCain deal with the GI Bill reform!!!
God I love this country!
No, you are uninformed about this . John McCain would have made a Fine President for our country! Go Navy!!!!!!!!!!
Thank you Post 9/11 VEA Improvements Act of 2010!
My tuition just went from being fully paid for an entir e academic year to now onle ONE semester being paid for!
FML!
Oh, and another thing.
I love how they basically just pulled an okie doke on us serving and have served.
FML!
One Last Thing.
And this will actually be an intelligent post. I understand modifying it to cut costs, etc. But these changes should only apply to those seervicemembers who enlist after the dat e the bill was passed (or Jan/Aug 1st 2011…it's really arbitrary at this point), and SHOULD NOT be retroactive to those that enlisted prior to, because it completely throws everybody, who was eligible under the first incarnation, for a loop.
You know I can totally understand them not wanting to pay us for FULL months that we dont go to school. Even if you go full time year round, basically there will be once month(usually July or August) and you never even see a classroom, and I can understand not wanting to pay us for nothing. But my school MAKES you take Christmas Break from the 14th of DEC to the 4th of JAN, how are you going to stop my only source of income during the holidays??? I live in Michigan by the way, so all of you morons that keep saying "Get a job and budget and blah blah blah", you try to come up here and find a job that will pay you more than minimum wage over the summer, its IMPOSSIBLE. These problems people are having, they have nothing to do with people's budgetting, it comes from the fact that the housing stipend is their sole source of income just like myself. So think before you speak.
a bunch of entitlist whiners! geeze.
i hope you don't get degrees because all we need is a bunch (more) of hand-out grabbing idiots in positions of authority and power in this country.
and, at least have something besides the cookie-cutter version of rush limbaugh crap to say. at least that guy gets paid.
just be glad that there's a chance that if you act the least bit smart now, you will have a college degree that you won't have to spend the rest of your lives paying off.
and you do deserve that. for serving your country. now stop whining and act like you have some freakin integrity.
Because I’m sure u spent any time serving your country. You’re a real piece of ****.
welcome to the real world how am i going to pay for rent in between well get a job you should not go to college and expect to make a living going to it that comes after so much fuzz about the cut what about the retire people that have not got a pay raise in year or cola you go serve a couple of year and think you are entitle to all this stuff what about the real vets that serve 20 30 years and get now have to fight for just a little bit and are to old to go to school and could not go when in the service because they were to busy doing there jobs and taking care of the troops nobody cares about them but they are just sucking it in so stop crying that how am i going to pay for rent and crap get a job or two just like those vets have to do.
distance learning with the post 9-11 never had a bah stipend unless you take one course at a main campus somewhere. Now you get at least $673 dollars without going to another school and taking a in-class course. I have currently been going to a distance school full time and another class at a main campus somewhere else just to get bah. Granted that in order to get1 340 a month instead of the 673 I still have to take another on campus class.
BYE BYE OBAMA!!!!
Obama didn’t spearhead this bill, dunce. Read a newspaper.
If one physically attends college full time but the Post 9.11 only participates in 50%, with this GI Bill 2.0, it seems that as long as he is enrolled full time (12 credits for myself), that I will recieve full BAH rate. This gives me the jump from 600 to 1200 in BAH and does not consider my time served with combined time training.
Is it, as long as I am in school full time taking class on campus, I will be able to collect the full 1200 for BAH monthly? This is one heck of a deal with this new GI Bill as it does not take into consideration time served as it does enrollment participation.
Let me know peoples.
Counting my Blessings. I served a combined 24 years , 15 of which was Active Duty ( to include two call-ups after the Events of 911, which accounted for almost four of those years). I am a disabled vet and was able to go back to school under Voc. Rehab and then convert to the post 911 G.I. Bill. I never expected any of these benefits being made available to me. I am now working on my Master's Degree and I am very thankful . I was proud to serve and have no regrets…..the benefits that I have received after my service ( medical compensation for my disabilities and college tuition with pay ) very much appreciated.
I agree with bummed, leave your Political attacks out. At least they're trying to do something, the old GI bill just barely paid for classes before! What's all the whining about? Why didn't you go to school while on active duty? What did you expect total welfare? I work 40 hours a week and go to school at night full time and maintain a 4.0 GPA. 22 years active duty and never expected anything more once I retired, now the Post 9-11 was a blessing but I didn't go and quite my job. Some of you so called soldiers need to stop slinging SNOT and get real and be honest with yourself. I really don't think the BAH is or was enough to carry you for the entire month no matter what time of the year it was. Sounds like you put all your marbles in a bag with a hole in it. SUCK IT UP!! Kiddo!!
You suck.
I count my blessings everyday that I enlisted before 911, served 5 years after 911. I joined so my mother with cancer never had to worry amour my college bills. Once I was in fell in love with the Navy, then was injured on duty. I didn’t get the opportunity to retire like I planned. Now after getting out I work and go to school. The GI bill is not a form of welfare or a hand out. I earned it!!!
"If its not broken don't fix it". Thanks for screwing with the system. its been eleven days and I have not received any BAH. I'd go out and collect cans, but they are buried in the snow!
Don't worry. If my country calls. I'll go anywhere; anytime; and fight anyone you tell me too. Atleast thats something YOU can still count on me for!
This is idiotic. This isn't free money that's just handed out that we waste. The money goes straight back into the economy and school and produces men and women who are intelligent and prepared for the work force. Screwing around with this great thing is going to cause a lot of problems. Where was my notification that things were going to change? The disarray that this is in and a bill being passed without even my knowledge to protest it is crazy. Do I need to start doing searches 24/7 to stay updated? Every person who is going to say, "don't rely on government pay" blah blah blah, quit it. Ever heard of sticking up for yourself? Makes me sick.
I'm still trying to figure out when being a Soldier meant that the world owed you something. Ever hear of Selfless Service? Be thankful that you have the money and the ability to get an education and use it to your advantage. No one else pays for their employees to get their education. Sure there are employers who pay for job training, but what job lets you leave, while you are still fairly young by the way, and still pays for your degree? Think about it….I am a single mom, I go to school full-time AND I work full-time. I'm not even using the Post 9/11 GI Bill and somehow I am able to get by. Go figure.
Sick of the useless idiots who want to sit on their computer and toot their own horn while dissing people who were told they were entitled to certain benefits. No one pays their employees to get an education? Most likely at those places people are not risking their life for that job while sometimes gaining skills that do not transfer to the civilian world. Go type somewhere else and read a book.
:)
You work for years with the understanding that you will get a benefit when you finish your contract. Then when it comes time to collect on that benefit it's not available or less than promised. Yes the military pays a retirement benefit after 20 years but try to live on it! In one day your income is less than half of what it was yesterday. Yes you are young enough to get another job, but try and find one today.
People on TANF (public assistance) get all their education costs, medical, rent, food stamps and most cases child care paid for. Not a dime out of their pocket, not even gas for the car. Why? Because the father lives next door or on the next street over and is considered out of the home even though he is there every day. Paid for by whom? Us tax payers. I know this because I was a supervisor for the employment side of the program for 15 years. We would do a budget with them and each one of them had more spending money at the end of the month than we did.
I hope you are putting money away and your are not counting on SS being there when you are eligible to draw it.
The world does not owe us veterans anything except what we were promised when we signed the contract and then lived up to every word in it!
You never served your country. You had some kids and are paying for everything yourself and are jealous that our soldiers get VA benefits while they attend school. No one owes you anything for spiting out a couple of kids or having a hard time. You probably get financial aid and are mad that you have to pay the loans back.. Go sign up for the military and get your college paid for. Our soldiers are promised an education paid for when they join the military, and that promise should be 100% kept. They risked their lives and continue to. I think you are the one who is whining. Don't hate on our soldiers for asking for what they were promised! You haven't risked your life for this country and you also really have no right to comment on this discussion. I can't believe you are even being rude to our soldiers and vets over education benefits they were promised. You have some serious issues….
I took a early retirement package from a job paying better that $30 an hour based on the post 9/11 benefits I was promised. Because I retired from the Nat Guard with 24 years with 17 being active duty I don't get any of that $ for 9 more years. I hope the real estate market picks up again soon so I can survive on my part time business and meager retirement check.
Vets have always been team players, we need to keep that going now.
Tomorrow I will be on the phone to my representatives because here my words are not heard by those that can do something about this. Please consider that there is strength in numbers, pick up the phone if you haven't already.
Yeah thats right good ole f + opposite of on to the us government on this one making veterans pay for their misappropriation of funding in other places and pinning excuses on the rushed installment initially last august. they are screwing up majorly now and i pray there arent many homeless vets, because those of us who are already from really poor families and barely getting by as it is will suffer the most and they dont care as long as their mistakes financially in other areas not having anything to do with vets funding sources gets amended for. now as it stands all those years i gave just so i could go to college and be the first in my family to do so will have to wait. ill have to go half time just to work and pay the rent for my self and the 7 other ppl that depend on that rent stipend in order to have a place to live and eat. back to the food stamp line i guess. thanx uncle sam
Well, half the time I never get paid as scheduled anyway; the folks that work in customer "no service" appear to have no clue of what's going on. I can tell you, if it wasn't for Skype, I would literally dry up my cell phone minutes each quarter. Each rep has a different answer! BTW VA people……I was over paid $23,000!!! They took it back as quickly as they put it in mind you, but in the process, this interrupted my stipend, that I expected, as PROMISED. Not only that, it caused my direct deposit to stop WITHOUT my permission!!!! The VA system as a whole, is well, to say the least, disorganized with no ramifications for employees who screw up other people's lives. Here's a thought: why don't they take the extra money from end of FY spending, and instead of scrambeling to spend it for the sake of spending it, put it toward the deficit! GET IT TOGETHER PEOPLE!!!!
I knew this was too good to be true a year and a half now and 6 months from my degree and there's a change. I should have seen it coming. God Bless as always the USA but not the one's who served…. Go figure
This is so retarded. So a government program actually works and veterans are taking advantage of it so the government gets scared because a program is actually working and they didn't think everyone would take advantage of it. Now, everyone using it is going to get punished for the governments inability to put fund towards a program they made and I signed a contract for. Maybe we should make a bill taking away some of congress's benefits and see what an outrage it causes. I should have just stayed with the original GI bill instead of switching over to the Post 9/11. At least then I would be getting 500 bucks a month for taking one class which would help with my schedule since we all have to work full time and go to school.
And before I get any flack from the Vietnam vets I want to say this to you. I appreciate your service but don't give me any crap. I joined the military after 9/11, knowing that I would be put into harms way and when I singed my life away on the dotted line I expected that the government would hold true on their side as well when I got out, but it looks like they didn't. I don't feel "entitled" to anything except for what I served for and signed for fair and square. We are here trying to further our careers and the future of our country. We are trying to fix what is screwed up and if it keeps getting harder and harder to have access to these programs that are helping us in the future, I feel very depressed to what will happen in the future.
Poor, poor veterans. Stupid, stupid congress.
TO anyone who is posting shit about people not whining, can it. I personally am thankful for getting anything, but this is a matter of benefits promised and not delivered. A soldier deserves at the very least to be able to attend college full time without having to worry about living pay check to pay check. In today's world even a soldier who served 2 years got deployed at least once. The soldier's who receive these benefits didn't have silver spoons in their mouths when they were born. They should at least be able to attend college and get the cost of living covered even in the off monhts. What is someone suppose to do, get a job for a few weeks and quit to make up the differnce? Nope, now you are expected to go and get a 40 hour a week job and go to schoool full time like most of you would have had to do if you didnt join the military.
I am a 100% disabled vet and you damn well better believe the government owes me something. Im 30 years old and probably won't see 50 thanks to the government, and a sand pit hell hole called Iraq. Cut your own fucking wages for a month and then start them back up when you leave on your extended fucking winter and summer breaks you good for nothing wind bags.
@SickOfTheWhining, where you live at, Kansas City??? Listen Single Mom SquidBrain, this is about honoring contracts; I didn't go AWOL or doing anything stupid while I was serving and I should be awarded what was promised to me when I left active duty. We all plan our lives based on what we do at the present time and definitely future criteria based on contracts such as the Post 9-11. When parties involved in a contract failed to serve their terms, then failures happens left and right and I'll be just another hopless, homeless, worthless veterans not able to contribute this country. Just another dependent. And do not run your mouth about Selfless service, people like you who can not notice when you're being taken advantage off and continued being a mouse: sorry sir, sorry mame, sorrry sorry, you're probably used to such phrases….while racking up your student loans.
The rest of you veterans, this is not acceptable…keep roaring like Lions and do not give up, now we're fighting with words…Lets attacked with sound words through the proper channels. I'm writing letters to my rep… God Speed
I do not understand why so many soldiers are complaining about the gi bill as all of the people who are bitching all voluntered with no guarantee of paid education. also i am retired I used the gi bill to go to school and never received any housing allowance,I managed to work full time,raise 4 children and go to school full time,and managed to have a home and eat and pay the bills.I was a soldier by choice and so were you. so stop crying
Is everyone ignoring the change allowing trade school training? Vocational schools = jobs. I can't wait till I am allowed to go to training I will actually be able to use. Welding, Commercial Driving, or something that I can turn into a career. A degree in anything is a useless peice of paper. Ok so I can sit in a class for years. No employer sees that as a vallued skill. Thankfully someone added a use to the GI Bill.
hhuu pretty shadddyyy will be homeless for two months…o yea get a job… lazy asss you would say……MAKE SOME DAMN JOBS RETARDER GOVERMENT cant find work anywhere
oviously ask what does the goverment whats from this….obvious again JOING OUR MILITARY again we promise u a great future ..liers..is cheaper for them if you go back they want people to stay in the military this is a trap …..smart assses cant believe this
I’m not surprised USMC thinks a college degree doesn’t mean anything. I guess if u consider driving a vehicle which everybody learns at 16 is a career, then I guess he’s right…degree probably wouldn’t matter. Those Dr’s, lawyers, and engineers got their education from on the job training right?
None of you can go to school over the summer? Not one of you? I know some schools don't have a summer program but I know the one I'm going to does. Relying on the break pay is bad anyway because you're using up benefits when you're not even in school. So if you got per semester without you actually only get payed for 9 months under the current G.I. Bill. The rest is prorated per day. If you take the break pay, from what I understand, you lose that much time off you total 36 month benefit. The difference between prorating by the days of school per month versus prorating the pay by your semester hours might suck for some but if you went to school year round as a full time student you'd A. Be payed 100% of your BAH stipend per month, every month you're in school and B. You wouldn't be burning your benefits up just for the sake of getting the housing stipend. I think it's perfectly fair in terms of what they're doing because some of our vets are disabled and this should help them out with distance learning. If you're not disabled then what are you doing while you're collecting break pay? Thumbing your donut? A lot of this is just hyperbolic bull***.
Um, break pay is pretty much essential if you have something called a lease. Not everyone lives with family. I have a job and go to school full time, but I sure as **** depend on that break pay to survive.
For those of you who paid in, you may have it returned. You have to exhaust your current benefits first. Check the VA site in detail.
Can someone explain to me what all this means? My mother is giving me her post 9/11 Gi bill for college next year and I am not understand what this article is saying.
so if i sat on my ass all day and played on a computer i would get the same as what im doing now by goin to school all year round and putting wear and tear on my car and living expenses are cut out for me and given to someone sitting in there moms basement on a computer scratching his fuckin nuts. it just makes me so mad that we serve this government who has screwed me from day 1 when i came home from IRAQ and tried to tell me i took 90 days leave that i never got the money back that they took out to pay that so called debt.I guess instead of going to school i need to sit home and take online classes which they told me that the VA just allowed u to take only one.
The government has been more than generous to us vets. count your blessings. embrace life.
i should of voted for the clintons then their would of actually been SOME CHANGE mr obama can kiss my ass
I want to know why Obama thinks he has the right to screw up our active duty, veterans, and disabled veterans GI Bill pay. I am a family man of 2 children and I work part time while attending college half time. We live paycheck to paycheck, and the money I receive from my GI Bill helps out tremendously, now he is cutting it in half!?!?! Like we havent done enough for this country, fighting for your sorry coward being of a person. I think we deserve to have the gi bill in full the way it was before. Now what am I gonna do? what are we gonna do? I have read several comments and for those like ICEBEAR you can eat it, you call yourself a true military or american man, you can bite me! This is so screwed up and for those who are going through the rough times, wondering how to work and go to school I am with you guys, jsut dont give up obtain your degree. Its going to be tough but when I get my diploma i am going to stick my middle finger in the air for Obama
Easy Blake, stop blaming Obama, and never stick your filty dirty little finger any where except your own **s. what about those who served before, they didn't get anything for school especially online school. what ever u get just take it cos is free, and is from ur government, u should thanks them and be grateful. thousands of vets went to school online for the past years but did not get any thing. but now u are lucky to get something and you are not happy. . …wake up.
you are one of those soldiers that complain and whinn, have never fired a round before.
My main gripe is actually with the reducing to 17,500 cap.
I haven’t been able to get a full time job since I got out (personality disorder,honorable discharge. Makes getting jobs difficult to say the least).
When I found out about the GI bill it was basically my salvation. The only jobs I can get are part time temporary labor jobs (which most time didn’t even fully cover rent).
However, since I attend classes during the day (in order to keep full time, on campus courses my night options are limited) I don’t get more than a day or 2 of work once every couple of weeks (I’m in class when they call me to work).
I attend Devry (I’m at 80% benefits, so I have 24 months of benefits and need an accelerated program to get anywhere near a BiS by the time my benefits run out), and the cost is around 8100 per semester, 3 semesters a year (24,000 or so). This leaves a pretty big gap to fill. Not to mention the 2 weeks break during christmas isn’t covered, so there’s one month out of the year where I not only won’t be able to work, but won’t be able to cover my bills.
Before you say “go get a job”. I’ve tried, I’m still applying for part time positions. You know how many calls back I’ve had in the 2 1/2 years since I got out of the service. 0. Not one damned callback. No interviews, nothing.
The temp labor service is the only place where I’ve been able to get any work, and that’s very Temporary. I was LUCKY to work 20 hours a week. (only because I have a car was I sent out on jobs).
If it wasn’t for the GI bill (as it stands prior to august) right now I’d be homeless (the place I lived at prior to starting school had very cheap rent, 350 a month, but was subleased and the guy I was leasing from didn’t release the house, so I can’t go back there).
I have no family to “help me out” and most of the people I know are also unemployed, or barely employed, so no “friend hooking me up with a job” either.
I don’t know exactly how I’m going to handle the change, I’m getting a degree for computer programing(BiS-Computer Information Systems). I do spectacularly when it comes to programming, but without a degree I will not be hired. period.
I have a few months(thank god) to figure out how I’m going to handle this, but as of today (only been thinking on this for a few hours) I’m not seeing any solution.
Why don't they take money out of Obama's million dollar trip to Hawaii instead taking it out on the veterans who fight for not only the citizens of the united states, but also the well being of other people in the world. Let them have some peace.
Is it that hard to work and go to school ?? I do it and have a 6 month old child. Maybe you need to realize that this country is in a financial CF and we need to what it takes to get through it. It's not like they are saying they aren't going to pay you anymore.
You work what? are you single or married?
I don't know why everyone is so upset. It's actually increasing some benefits, still paying FULL tuition at public colleges and paying up to $17,500 year towards a private college.
Do you think the government should cover all expenses if you want to go to Harvard in addition to housing? That's crazy and fiscally irresponsible.
It just cracks me up how any of you people can tell veterans to suck it up. I guess I can understand some vets saying it to other vets because I'm sure most of those telling the others to "suck it up" were probably pencil pushers or supply, not infantry or any other mos that required them to actually put their lives on the line for this country….
With that being said, This change is BS. The people that are entitled to this benefit EARNED the pay by (in most cases) defending this nation. They are getting the shaft from a congress that is entitled to a retirement that pays their highest earned salary during their elected time. If the country is paying out too much money, then why don't they cut the congress retirement down? Does a congressmen that served two years actually deserve 100% retirement for the rest of his life? Why cut the pay of those that actually earned it. Actually, while we are at it, why don't we cut their elected time pay down as well. I guess its fair when the representative drives a 7 series bmw and the public that he or she represents is driving a 95 sable wagon..wait, no, thats not fair at all. Maybe elected officials should make the average income of the state they represent. Anyway…
Maybe Obama just wants to see our military get discouraged, and in turn, become weaker with a loss of numbers. Then maybe all his boys in the Middle East will be able to make their move.
Oh, just in case you people wanted to know, my sister just got an internship for 19$ an hour. Prior to this, she was going to school on the governments money. Why you ask? Because she got pregnant at 18 and had a child. Since she is an unwed mother she is entitled to food stamps and free education. Also, if the government overpays the school, she gets the refund check. So, anyway, 19$ an hour, and guess what the best part is. She gets to keep her benefits. The school is still paid for because its considered a temporary position.
Your hard earned benefits are being cut, while people that can't manage to put on a condemn during a drunk one night stand, are getting more benefits than they know what to do with.
So think of this while your getting screwed out of your money. And for those reading this that don't rate the GI Bill, think of this while your brothers and sons are overseas risking their lives.
Everyone on here who is trying to justify this, every one of you who are saying, “stop complaining and take it.” Using excuses such as personal financial management, and we should feel lucky to get anything. You all should be absolutely ashamed with yourselves. Is that what being in the military taught you, to be spineless pushovers? Have you all really lost so much, that you hope and believe in nothing? That you’re willing to just accept the scraps that the politicians toss off their tables, while they sit fat and happy on billions of American tax dollars? You honestly disgust me.
I served this country for what it means to be an American, freedom, and the hope to better ourselves. To be treated equally, and that hard work pays off, that a nobody can be somebody. Fairness and equality mean the same damn thing. I fought for what I believe in, and I still do. This is not fair, it’s not equal treatment. We deserve better, but we won’t get it unless we fight for it. You folks should have learnt that. Or are the ones so willing to accept such injustice, the military demographic of brown-nosing ass kissers? So willing to take it in the ass and thank whoever gave it to you. Absolutely pathetic, stand up for yourselves, no one is going to do it for you. They owe it to us, they promised it. Take what’s yours.
Too bad our country is so divided these days. Otherwise we might actually be able to do something about it.
This is not acceptable killers, a decade of my life given, yet a mere "breakpay" is cut disrupting the only thing giving me hope for a better life, education. It really troubles me that a mere insignificant small amount of money, breakpay, could cut my education. All you vets justifying with "stop complaining and take it" sadden me, perhaps indeed you're all spineless bitches pencil pushers as exclaimed by Mr. sameuniformlol.
Most likely you did not see, smelled, or felt death while deployed nor did you burn shit for a living as a soldier…For all you vets struggling trying to figure this out…..killer do not give up. Find a way to get your education, get yourself into class even if you're living in ditch eating nothing, **ck..cut your limbs and eat them if you have too. Killer I'll pray for you, hope your dreams come true and you'll be happy one day. Good luck and GodSpeed.
Always a Redleg, That's FIELD ARTILLERY for all of you pencil pushers bitches….
You can always take student loans to pay for your expenses outside of school. Granted you have to pay them back, but so does everyone.
Looking for ideas!
I am the spouse of a veteran and am currently conducting a policy analysis on the G.I. Bill 2.0. I am focused on the changes made to the BAH. Additionally, I am planning to take action to help bring awareness to the gap in services in regards to the loss of break pay.
If anyone has any useful ideas or suggestions on ways I can take action, I would greatly appreciate the help.
And of course, thank you for your service to our country.
Thanks Obama! Don't expect my vote next time around.
For those whom left the military to go tot school full time, at least we can pick up unemployment while we are in school for the first year. After that we are then all screwed.
Does anyone know how to appeal this and ask for the interval pay to be reinstated? What are the steps?
This is absolutely disgusting. Whoever took part in cutting the benefits offered to Veterans should be ashamed of themselves, up to and including the President. Perhaps they think this is a hand out. Perhaps they fail to realize the sacrifices that we made, the hours that we gave to our country and the trauma that we faced through serving our country. Many Veterans who came back from Iraq and Afghanistan will never be the same. It took me 3 years to get to a point where I felt well enough to go back to school. I quit my job so that I could go to school full time. What are these people thinking? Are we suppose to venture out in the middle of studying for finals to go find a job all so we can pay our bills for a two week period, only to have to quit the job because we will start school again 2 weeks later. Stupid! Is anyone using common sense? How disloyal to the men and women who gave so much of their personal life to serve. I am greatly disappointed in our leadership and agree heavily that our entire government needs a complete overhaul. This is not a handout! We earned this benefit! period! Stop stripping us of the benefits that we earned!
Part 1
Wait now, do not jump over the cliff yet. We're suppose to bail out the bankers
first…You and I…killer we're nothing more than soldiers. Indeed we are expendables…may I quote the great Rambo, "If your're invited to a party, but do not show up..nobody cares.." Something like that, haven't seen Rambo II for awhile. Yeah, he's a character, but..you tell me! It is you and only you who can help yourself. Haaaa haaa haaa, good luch with your nightmares, missing limbs, basically fucked up mentality…But killers, whatever the given conditions, get your end to class no matter what. Drag yourself, move yourself…shit!!! drenched your books in your tears and blood and eat them if you starving..Now school is your enemy and you need to kill it, snipe it, destroy it with a claymore….fuck just bombed it like we do in artillery…couple of MLRS missles, erased a couple of grids.
Part II
Oh, all of you devil dogs, Airmans, Seamens, and couple of you soldiers talking shit…yeah keep eating the crumbs falling off the table….you're not my fucking keeper brother. The rest of you trying to figure this out, good luck, hope your strong and your happy dreams will come true… Jack Redleg…motherfucking Field Artillery bitches.
Just as a thought (from the Mom of a deployed serviceman who hopes to take advantage of the GI Bill one day)
Old folks in USA, with variable (and questionable) Medicare/Medicaid benefits and no other opportunities for housing or work often opt to join together into "care homes" where benefits are traded for all necessary care, including transportation, food, etc. In most cases, all "public" payments are transferred, but all services are also provided regardless of ability to pay in full for care. Would the advent of "distance" learning payments create an environment for neighborhood "group" housing areas for transitioning military that seek housing not subject to the down side of the off-time payment loss, and perhaps even help with educational issues (i.e. costs of computers etc.) Is this something the volunteer community could step into??? Are group/bridge housing units for returning student veterans the wae of the future?
I retired as a U.S. Army 1SG after 23 years of honorable service and countless deployments. I am not the authority on what I deserve and do not deserve, but I do know what was promised and I do know what was put into law by our government concerning the Post 911 GI Bill; now the law has been revised and money has been taken from vets to pay for other vets with no grandfather clauses. In other words, we have been put into a position to attack one another instead of the IAVA and our congress, which changed the law right before they took their holiday break. Classic! Oldest diversionary tactic in the psy/ops handbook and some of you fell for it; shame on you. BLUF. thank you for your service. I have two friends who were within 12 hours of graduating from private colleges and can no longer attend do to the changes. Remember, we were told to go to these institutions and receive the best educations available. Now, they will have to go to public colleges, but wait! They will have to take 30 more hours to graduate from their new colleges; you cant just transfer in to a new college and pick up were you were at the other and the VA will have to pay for those additional hours. There are 2 young marines (disabled) at my school who will be flipping burgers (literally) to pay for the month break between semesters. Am I thankful I get to go to school, absolutely! If you think that I would bad mouth other veterans or my Commander-In-Chief, you would be mistaken.
I knew this day was coming. The break pay was to much of a blessing. The best way to counter this people is to apply for financial aid. Stick the refund your going to get in a savings account and use it for rent during those break periods. That's what I been doing. Remember with financial aid you don't have to take the loans you can take only the grants. Don't forget scholarships they can pay your bills too.
I live in DC and its pretty expensive here if I can manage so can the rest of you.
And never forget your military bearing. Bashing our leader is unacceptable.
I was originally enrolled in school under the Montogomery GI Bill immediately after discharge. I was on unemployment at the time, and when the state found out that I was enrolled in school, they cut me off. I was searching for a job, but hadn't found one yet. I tried to live off my GI Bill alone ($2100/month each semester enrolled), but, after paying rent, paying for food and utilities, I didn't have enough for the school, and thus I had to quit after my second smester, still owing the college about half the cost of a semester. I finally got hired on at a local factory, and of course, the college garnished my wages, and now I'm paid up. Problem #2: In this area (and I'm sure you'll find this nationaly) "…we (the industry) have found that workers who work a straight shift, i.e.: the same shift every day every week, are less productive than those who rotate from shift to shift each week. Their ability to have social lives prevents them from working overtime, as weekends are planned in advance. By having them rotate each week (midnights, afternoons, then days) they can not create social lives, they can not make plans, and thus, when asked to do overtime, as they have "nothing better to do," they will, and the more ovetime done by employees, the less employees we need to hire, thereby saving on benefits costs…" Unfortunately, changing shifts every week makes traditional college imposssible. Online is the only way to go for me. This new Post 9/11 GI Bill seems to think online students pay less for school, but in fact, it's usually more to go online. I understand that they give us money for school, but the fact is that the govt. KNOWS dang well that it's nearly impossible for most vets, and thus they KNOW that it probably won't get used by most vets. Unfortunately for them, the post 9/11 GI Bill was a GOOD thing, and more vets used it than planned, so they are now making a change, knowing dang well that some of the vets getting their "promised" money will be forced to drop out. They put in the BAH for Online only students as a way to put sugar on the poo that they are serving. I only hope that some day we vets have a chance to use their atrocities against them.
Thank you for writing this Jeremy. I've been looking over this forum for an honest report on how veterans have been able to step out of the military leaving behind Base pay, BAH and BAS and health care to enroll full time. I'm active and wondering if it's even a safe risk. Are the paychecks consistent?
smh, the military dont pay enough as it is. thats y they got so many damn veterans. they need to be paying for housing while we go to school. how bought the president give up some of his damn paycheck!
You would think that if the government wanted to decrease funds in a certain department that education and GI Bill funding for Vets would be the last on their list. I’m currently a full-time student at a very presigous university, so I barely have time to work because I’m doing all I can to keep my grades around the 3.0 mark. My family cant afford to pay for my schooling, so I totally solely depend on the Post 9-11 GI Bill housing allowance EVERY MONTH. Now, that all of these changes are coming… I’m not sure if I’ll be able to work and stay in school. President Obama, if you by chance to happen to read this message, please increase BAH for vets in school and also removed the prorated clause. Thanks
***ATTENTION ALL STUDENT VETERANS***
The upcoming changes to the Post 9/11 GI Bill will affect all of us in some form or another. I would ask that you please consider emailing the White House regarding this matter. I've already sent mine and if you could get all of your veteran friends to participate, maybe we can stop the changes, or at least have the White House recondier other options. Click on this link to leave your contact info and email: http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact
Thanks in advance!
I understand that if you take less hours your housing will be less. But, I heard that taking less than nine hours leaves you ineligible for housing. In other words if you only take 8 hours, you won't get a housing benefit. Also, how do you get more hours, if these are your last two classes and the VA told you, you can only take what is on your graduation plan. The housing changes have me somewhat confused…
i cant even find a job, because i have no effing experience because i joined the damn military, no im getting shit on again
Sadly, I am not surprised by the misinformation and misunderstanding by posters to this page. I served my country proudly and benefitted from stable pay, strong medical services for my family, and various education benefits. I have a full time job and am going to graduate school. I carefully read the government sites to fully understand my benefits and contact the VA if I have any questions. I work with my university registrar to ensure I am filing proper documents each term. I've had no adverse issues and am embarrassed by those who seem to be complaining based on poor understanding or a false sense of entitlement. I know single parents who have two low paying jobs and are going to school for their bachelor's degrees. It is hard but it can be done. While I am tempted to shout at the apparent whiners I recognize I do not know their whole story. So I offer support and tell you that I beleive many of them are just misinformed and not fully committed to success.
So I have a question. I know someone who has already used up their GI Bill but somehow they are getting the benefit of an additional $1,000/month for BAH. Does anyone know how this is possible or is this person lying to me?
As tough as this is, it's only right to reduce the BAH rates. College is not a right and having BAH rates lumpted on top of paid for college was gravy. It will affect me as well, but I will adjust and make it work. The taxpayers of America have paid so much for our benefits, it's time they get a break as well. If we were in a roaring economy, I would say sure, why not, but we are not. If you are smart enough to get into college, you/we should be industrious enough to make ends meet.
You're not a real vet I presume.
My father gave me his G.I. Bill so that I could go to school full time and not worry about too much. I give almost all of my monthly stipend to my parents so that they can keep the roof above their heads, and lately I get nothing so they don't get anything. Tonight, we all had to sit down and figure out how we can keep their world from collapsing.
this is a great way to treat our vets….
If you really want to do something about these changes then call your congressman…. how about fuck that. You know how it easy it is for a scout sniper to start killing low level officials and work my way up. They forget that they trained us for ONE PURPOSE.
What the HOLLY F! I just received my payment and it's $700 short. If it's because of this crap I'm screwed.
DUDE my payment was 555!!!!!!!!!!!!! I HATE CONGRESS
How about taxing an illegal immigrant instead of screwing the hand that put its life on the line for your sorry ass.
i like how half these comments are nothing but "I'm The Alpha Male! my dicks bigger than yours because I've been on like a million deployments!" its like a bunch of freakin teenagers
Hey random dude have you been on a deployment away from you're family? For up to a year or more at a time? Yeah probably not. So keep your friggin mouth shut you dumb a#%! You have no right to express or say anything to us veterans about deployments, and school. Take your crap somewhere else.
@Guest…Haaaa so well written I almost cried..:-)
Listen, this is not all about you: yeah good for you that
you were educated, informed, understood, Alpha M, etc…….good
for me that I'm probably the same as you or better…
This is about a collective voice to make sure those of
us, "ROCKHEADS", are heard and hopefully saved.
Good luck killers, peace and love. Oh, I'm four weeks into
Fall Semester hauling a 3.4 GPA..bitchess. Haaa haa haa haa
Jack Redleg
I am vet that is in school and these changes just cut my MHA by 45% I dont know how I am going to live on $165 a month I cant even pay the gas to get to school for that amount, so what am I to do just drop out of school because I cant afford to get there under these new changes
I do not support the President… Sorry, he obviously doesn't give a shit about the military or vets.It's like WOW, Isn't the Vice Presidents kid serving in Iraq right now? He's got nothing to worry about though… HE'S THE VP'S KID! I don't know, I think all of this actually DOES have something to do with politics. I am just disgusted with his leadership. My decision to get out of the Army was a little influenced by the fact that he is my "Commander and Chief". Hey, that's just me though!
I HAVE A QUESTION!
I was "other than honorably discharged" due to PTSD. I did deploy to Iraq in 2007. I was a cav scout, airborn, air assult, the works. I was discharged with absolutely no benefits. What can I do to change this burden my so-called "brother in arms" gave me? Can I work with the VA to try and get some benefits? I think I deserve something. The Army pretty much ruined my life. I joined at 17 then immediatly deployed to Iraq. Can SOMEONE/ANYONE please give me some guidence? I need help with my PTSD too. PLEASE HELP!
Talk to a Veteran Center near you. Those places are ran by veterans, but why were you discharged OTH? That makes no sense, I have plenty of friends who also have PTSD and they were all honorably discharged.
Its all the people in here complaining who have abused the benefits for those who really need them. How about thinking of other people who are just now coming into this situation and they may not even be able to make any progress because of the guys and gals before them who were selfish and abused the benefits they had. Shame on you if you decided to be lazy and pay rent, sit on your rear and take some classes. Maybe you should have used the money for what it was INTENDED FOR!!! SO STOP COMPLAINING FOOLS!!!! You can only blame the greedy american, selfish american .. who only thinks of themselves … the ONES WHO RUIN IT FOR EVERYONE ELSE.
OMG…cry me a river! Ok first of all veterans shouldn't receive any housing assistance because your education is paid in full. If you can't afford your rent that's you problem. Live in the dorms! With that said, post 911 vets receive all this crazy money and vets before you don't (didn't) receive nothing close. So if they could live off a $10000 GI Bill, I do believe you can survive without two or three months of housing pay. The gravy train is eventually going to stop anyway so save as much as you can now and maybe get a pt job. Come on now stop all the tears and the complaints. Oh yeah I don't want to hear I have a family…who doesn't!! Also remember a vet is a vet and if the olders vets don't receive all this money nor should you. Now really think about that!!!
@Okie
Let me drop a couple of hard facts on you before you go around saying that veterans shouldn't get a housing allowance. One, rent all around the country steadily rises every year. Two, for some veterans a four year institution is not an option straight out of active duty so that cancels dormitories out. Three, as simple as it may seem to find a part time job these days the veteran unemployment rate continues to rise. Four, housing allowance for veterans not only helps a veteran make ends meet, it also keeps him/her out of a homeless shelter. Should I continue? Are you even a veteran yourself? If you're not than who the hell do you think you are to have a say in what a veteran deserves and doesn't? If a young person has the courage to stand up and say, "I'll serve" when millions of other Americans will never put on a uniform and stand up for their country then the least we can do as taxpayers is fund their lives after their commitment to the military ends. It is unethical for a government to turn their back on their brave men and women in uniform and thank goodness that in this day in age we have come to realize how important those people are. If you're a pre 9/11 veteran and you don't receive these benefits than why not fight for them? You're right a veteran is a veteran regardless but there's no need to mad dog the post 9/11 veterans. Their sacrifice in Iraq and Afghanistan is just as great as yours was.
This is absurd! Vets going to school full time, can not afford to lose break pay. If you are going to school full time, how are you suppose to make up this difference? You can not get a job in 2 week intervals between semesters. Most of us live on fixed incomes, and can not do with out this money. The VA has definetly made a wrong choice on this issue. How are Vets expected to pay monthly expense when they are only recieving half of a months pay. This is absolutely horrible, and should be changed back to include break pay.
you guys are pathetic, were being paid our tuition AND a book stipend AND BAH to go spend on beer pong tournaments if you like.. God what more of a handout do you want? All for serving 3 years getting paid in the mil anyway. You could work 40 hrs a wk and get student loans like everyone else.. Stop crying and embrace the fact that there IS EVEN A GI BILL of any sort with our current economic state. I did 8 yrs in the Marine Corps infantry and never heard guys complain this bad when were in the suck blasting Hadj.
I'm a 1st termer and I will have my B.S. before my renlistment. I want to use seperate and use the post gibill for masters. But like many of you I have a family. Can a vet share how they have been able to step out of the military to enroll full time. Did anyone save for this? Are the checks on time? Where there any unexpected expences like mandatory health insurance? Was there any significant difficulties enrolling into the bill? I noticed there are many 1st termers that have little knowlege about the bill and look for advice from others that are also in the service. I've been looking for a forum of Vets who have recent first hand experperience, details, sugesstions to share.
I'm dead broke right now, and have been going to school about a month full time, and live 40 min from campus. Still waiting for a payment so I can pack up my apt and shack up with someone that lives near the school. Even after paying her 200 a month for rent and paying bills, their will not be anything left over. I'll be getting a job a couple days a week. Sucks right now though, it's hard looking for a job when your broke. I had to miss school today cause I don't have gas to get there. Can't get food stamps either, cause the system is so F'd. They rather someone live off of it,lying about being disabled, than someone that is trying to better themselves and just needs help for little while. F'd up.
Did you exit the military with debt or is the check simply not feasible for you to live. Respectfully, it sounds like you've had to make some signifigant changes by moving in with someone. Did you anticipate a serious hardship or was there a sudden shift in benifts or unexpected expenses? Do you feel confidant you can find a part time job with the high unemployment rate? Are you going to college to enhance on skills/ training from your millitary experience or are you stepping into an entirely diffrent field? Please don't take offense to my questions. I'm not judging your decision or struggles I'm just trying to assess if I'm prepared for to seperate and depend on the bill.
Retired Veteran Post 911 Bill benefits transferrable?
I am the spouse of a retired veteran who served 28 years on active duty. He retired January 2008 and was on active duty for almost 6 1/2 years post 9/11. I am wanting to attend college but I do not understand if I'm eligible for his Post 9/11 benefits that he does not wish to use. Anyone know the answer?
Veterans Veterans Veterans. That's all you'll do is complain. Get enough of hearing you'll complain on my job at the VA hospital. Now this. Dammit, Im a veteran, a mother, work full time, and go to school full time. You have to do what u got to do. Complaining is not going to change their decision.
BAH is Housing Allowance! Just because school takes a break doesn't mean my BILLS take a break! The bills keep rolling year round. I am depending on my BAH to make ends meet. So I have to borrow money from people or get evicted every semester break?? As long as I am registered for next semesters classes, my pay should NOT be affected. What congressman do I need to write to about this
BS?
How about you stop complaining about what you don't get and celebrate what you do get! I am in the same boat, and I account for 8 months of stipend to last me 12. In case you aren't math inclined here's a visual: "BAH" rate x 8 / 12 = your monthly "allowance"
Or if you need numbers 1347 x 8 / 12 = 898 a month that the US taxpayers pay you to get a degree. With the tax advantages that is over 13k a year just to go to school and study whatever you want. If you break that down to an hourly rate (15 hours class time + 30 hours study time (2 per class hour) x 16 weeks/semester x 2 semesters) you get paid $9.13 an hour to do school work. Pretty damn sweet!
i am living in new york and will be attending school online at the university of phoeniz (az) I will also be taking one class in a neighborhood community college so i can get a higher bah. my question is, what zipcode will they use to figure out my bah? my home, the community college, or the online school? i will be full time online but was told i had to take at least one class in a walk in university to get the higher bah. thanks
The community colleges zip code.
But don't go to UofP!!! Check out UMUC to see if they have an option for you. It's an online public school, and is a huge supporter of the military.
It's come full circle for me. The lack of break pay in August threw me for a serious loop. It took about 4 months for me to catch up on bills, late payment fees, and I eventually had to take a weekend job loading lumber. My grades immediately dropped as a result of the lost study time which is pretty important when you're taking 18 semester hours of upper level course work. Now I'm preparing for an extra long break in December, trying my best to refuse myself any form of luxury, such as food and drink while still trying to feed my child. I've already begun to look into chapter 7 bankruptcy for the New Year to see if that's an option. I just hope they don't repo my vehicle and my credit doesn't take an irreparable hit. It's a ripple effect. I'm just sick with anger over all of this.
I work and go to school full time. My job doesn't really pay much but I live at a standard just at what I earn from that day job. The stipend goes in the bank. in an emergency like needing a new temp sensor for my car or the one month I was unemployed, I dipped into that savings. I set the money aside because the P911 only pays out for 36 months of classes. When that runs out, I plan to use the saved stipend $ to continue paying for more school (I was the rare idiot that did not use TA while I was in garrison so I still have a ways to go for my MBA). I have about 9 months left under the P911 and most of my monthly stipends are still in the bank. Really, any stipend at all is better than a kick in the junk. If one had a longer time in service than a cup of coffee, he or she would know that these things fluctuate with politics. That's why, though I'm grateful for it, I surely wont rely on it.
Has anyone received bah for 100% online distance learning coarse?
How long did It take to receive payment?
How Long did it take the school/va to process paperwork?
I am in A jam currently In a foreign land with no income
and not way to legally work, and coming back to the us
isnt an option at this point. Im looking for the fastest way
to complete my online degree or program that is open enrollment
without waiting for a new semester to begin so that I can receive me
50% BAH rate of the national average. After completing my Degree
I can apply for work legally in the international business sector however
currently as a foreigner it is illegal to work in this country without a 4 year degree, So some help is needed asap due to the lag factor.
If i was only in bootcamp 2 weeks and 2 more weeks at fort jackson and i was not hurt but recieved general discharge am i eligible for any benefits (DOUBTFUL)
no
Wow I must be old school. I paid the 1200 for my GI bill and then paid extra for the kicker then I switched over to the 9/11. I got out of the AF in 2008 at age 22 and never did I expect to be paid money while I was not attending school.
New day Vets expect to attend school and not have to work and be able to live comfortableally? I work full time and take 7 credits. I love the extra cash at the end of the month. You have to ditch the notion that you dont have to work and get to live a care free life and go to school. No one is going to hand over cash to pay ever single bill you may have, that is not realistic. I served fours years just like everyone else and consider the GI bill the best thing I took from the military. I certainly didnt expect a free ride though. Tuition is paid for, do you realize how great that is? While you attend school your rent is paid for, do you understand how great that it?
I like your perspective but it is not right; some people have given more years then you have been alive to their branch, and these entitlements are clearly spelled out. If you can get by not working while going to school full-time then that is what was intended (the concept "full-time); if you work for extra money then good for you, but unless you are really doing all your reading and putting your heart in every assignment, then you are robbing yourself of your own education. I got sick of going to classes were no one did the reading and the discussion was worthless, or where the teacher had to spend extra time because no one even tried to learn the concept before class, so in other word they robbed my "full-time" education.
I started school under the new Chapter 33 benefits of taking classes 100% on line I enrolled October 18 and have already received a partial Chapter 33 benefit.
completely unbelievable the asshats that are calling the people who defend this country LAZY! Really? I agree that people choose to take a break because of family and other reasons… My husband did 15and 12 months in Iraq, and Im sorry but he missed A LOT of our marriage and childrens lives not only during those times but during the training months and what not. Everyone lives a different life, just because you think they are lazy, does NOT mean by any means they are. i personally think that the break pay is the least they can do, being that when you break it all down, while on deployments you make like $0.77 a day to be in a complete shit hole and away from your family.
I am very grateful that you get to transfer the Post 9/11 GI Bill to your dependents. The cost of college is outrageous. Without this bill I would not be able to send my children to college without putting them in debt forever. I know the cuts are hard, but, at this point in our lives we should already be, or close, trained and established in our jobs. Our kids…not so much. Again, I am totally grateful for this bill.
A non POG, Your an idiot if you think the president comes up with this crap on his own, His adminstration, yes to include McCain orchestrates this BS,…
People like you certainly need this benefit to rid the ignorance
so i have a question.. i take online class, how much tuition would would be paid by va under post 9/11 gibill. i have a semester limit of 10 000 but under that tuition is only about 2500 the rest is like other stuffs. but its all combined under tuition per sem.
so how would this be paid
I didn't spend a year of my life on helping patrol Baghdad and 13 months in Kandahar getting shot at to take away what was promised. Thank you liberals for stripping me of what was promised
if you paid more attention you would know that a liberal fought for it and the less liberal, under constant pressure from the conservatives, took it away
Signing Chap. 33 into law sounded great at the time since our GOV (mistakenly) assumed that as with previous versions of the GI Bill(s), less than 10% of vets would ever actually use the benefits. They hedged their bets and lost when record numbers of us decided to use the program and now the VA is going broke trying to support it. Not excusing the 'system', just stating the obvious.
not really… the reason the number was 10 percent was that before it was a glorified welfare check, and now it really does pay for college
There are a lot of greedy freeloaders out there! FREE school! Are some of you insane? That is great! Fine, you can't pay your bills, sounds like a personal issue…get a job like the rest of us do instead of blaming politics. Truth is, the GI Bill is for SCHOOL, not living expenses. BAH is not needed for non-attending students-they would just be getting FREE money. My husband was able to transfer some of his benefits to me and the new changes still pay for my schooling and books, BAH is extra! Nothing in life is free…you should just thank GOD for having it as sweet as we do. I am very grateful and will be graduating in less than a year!
Did the change in online students receiving BAH affect spouses also ? Before, I was not eligible for any housing allowance at all, and it wasn't because I was an online student. I haven't been able to find anywhere that says I will or won't be allowed one now.
You have a TON of nerve getting benefits without putting your *** on the line, then trying to tell me that this is free. The main reason we can have an all-volunteer force is because we spend so much on the military benefits of which this is no different than the paycheck your husband recieved while serving. Do you call that Free-loading? Full-time school considers housing, food, and transit, and in line with the deal the gov't made when RECRUITING me, there is flexibility in how you balance your budget. After this post I now no longer support the transfer of benefits to dependents.
i only recive 60 percent bah cause of my discharge if i would have not reinlisted i would of got 100 im a full time student and now am going to get what 60 percent of 100 or what and my school is all year round so i wont be getting paid for going to school in the summer thats stupid shit ever this is why most people join in the first place then they go to war like me olmost get blown up and when you make it back you think you got your school covered then they change it on you last minute kind of a nice way to say thanks.
Sounds like you got the worst end of these changes, renelistment should be rewarded not punished. I am glad to hear your comment.
one more thing post 911 as it stands was in my contract and was under the impression what my pros and cons where when i sighned up for the infantry. the cons that i have will never go away i got ptsd for the rest of my life i lost my wife kids to sacrafice for the military and all i have left to look forward to is going to school and getting help doing it how am i going to go to school full time and pay child support and allimony even if i had a full time job 13an hour i would bring home about 50 bucks a week and that dont pay rent im going to school so i can get a job past 10an hour but it dont seem that im going to make it my 4 years i can just see in about 2 years it wont be worth it ill be homeless so ill be forced to work two jobs and wont have time for school this is why the benifets where the way they were is to keep students concentrated on school not girls having to strip to get thrue college or doing anything stupid to make money to pay for school but it is what it is thank god i did not pass it down to my son bye the time he would get it it would be nothing.
I heard that to receive half the bah for online classes we had to attend at least half time. Does anyone knows about this
I honestly don't understand what all the complaining is about. I served active duty 5 years and deployed overseas to combat zones. I did my time, much like everyone that has most likely posted.
Here is the problem, our government has been overspending, if one of the ways for them to cut spending is to accurately pay Vets for days they are 'actually' in class. I agree with it. I want spending to be cut.
I work and go to school full time, the military payed me for 5 years. I saved money instead of blowing it all. If you don't want to work, get a loan, those are available too.
Stop encouraging this welfare state of living our country is currently in. Freedom isn't just paid for by the lives of our brothers and sisters overseas. It's paid for by hardworking U.S. citizens that pay their taxes.
If you want to complain about our deficit and debt, ask why hundreds of thousands of americans, legal immigrants, and illegal immigrants don't pay taxes.
Full-time school is meant to be full-time. Work obviously interferes with our ability to put everything we have towards education, and everytime I am in class over half the idiots who boost their ego with this work and school have not done their reading, homework, or groupwork. You rob us all of education, and the countrys return on their investment in you will not pay the dividend it did when the Senator Jim Webbs went to school free of charge.
The truth you need to realize is that you are promoting a welfare state. We get funding for school. That's good. Why can't you be satisfied. As I've said in other posts, if you can't manage to save some money while you are in the service to use toward school, as well as use the GI Bill to cover the costs, go get a lone like 99% of the rest of the students in college. Stop being lazy. Understand that in this life, you have to work hard for what you want.
And I will also note that I have a 3.5 GPA. So, please don't give me that excuse about 'doing the reading' or 'studying' again.
What more outrageous is be reserve or national guard, I did 13 months ona deployment, and 35 years of total service. Now I trying to take class on line, what do I get? 60% of my tuition, and 60% of the 50% of the BAH. My tuition is $2,275 I get $1,365 of it, and if the BAH is still $673.50 I'll get $404.10.
Just found out that one of the changes was that the government is taking my grants and scholarship money because of the changes to the GI bill. Does anyone know about this?
This is absurd!!!!!! I love watching the latrine stream news media and watching their cameras focus in on the politicians in their shiny suits and nice cars, while veterans trying to futher educate themselves get the shaft from the veterans administration. Nevermind the fact that we have been tricked into using depleted uranium, spent countless hours away from our families, sacrificed our freedom and personal liberty to protect the constitutional right of all americans, while more veterans return home to homelessness than any other country. I love how we get the doormat treatment when money needs to be cut, but the current administration can give 500 million to solyndra who didnt produce one ounce of energy saving material. This is awesome!!! What did we do to have ANY of our benefits cut. Im truly disgusted!!!!!
I am 62 years old. I went into the military late in life (26). Had it not been for the military, I don't know where I would be. Is it a perfect system, no! But, it sure beats A LOT of the other companies out there and the benefits they offer, both will in their service and after.
I understand everyones side of this situation, but what other company offers you more!!!!! The economy is changing therefore we (responsible people ) have to change with it and make personal changes to. I retired in 2005, so it's not like I'm talking about a long time ago.
This is ridiculous, no break pay?
You all know how to use tactical engagements and how to lead small and large elements of men and women. Engage the revolution at will, the vets outnumber the active and even then, the active duty and guard would side with us. Seems a coup is in order.
If it was my opinion on all this… those that pass the bills.. I say if you never served in the military… step down and let those who have take your place… Id rather have enough to sustain my life with a little extra over what many of the poloticians have… "Oh were going to freeze military pay raise or give a 4% increase… we are giving ourselves a 25% pay raise for sitting at a desk just signing paperwork…." Get out in the fields… get to know military life and the lifestyles we have…. Understand… we stay up overseas to and fight the wars that so few of people made the idea ok lets go to war….We fight for the safety of others… We put our blood, sweat, and our lives on the line for others. Yet we get paid so little… The easiest thing to do to fix the whole issue period is sign a bill that says if a military person served atleast 1 tour down range, they do not pay for any college… restrict colleges from asking money from vets. If they never served a tour they get 30% for each year they have been in. What i don't understand is they get people who have money and no need to ask others of ways to make things better. While those who served ask others aswell as think on their own to fix outdated or bills that had flaws or issues…
What i never understood is Our 1st president served in the military… yet the further into the future you go the less likely they had any military background.
do military members have to pay this stipend back or is this free money?
Don't worry, many county jails have library, gyms, and 3 full meals some even have a tattoo parlor. Its good to know most of my tax money is going to criminals and help them become better at what they do, rather then going to the men and women AND their families that gave their lives and time upholding that contract in hopes to see the promises that were giving to them. But instead breaking promises is what america do. I take care of my brother's kids because of this; he had to go live dorm rooms ><.
Love anything that anyone gives me. It's a privilege to serve. What else were we gonna do? Changes suck, yeah, I agree, but it's still better than a swift kick in the teef!
This is the only country you could even talk about putting a Mosque at the 911 site—'cause this is still America!!!!!!!!!!! And just proposing something like that proves it!
rents are always going up so cutting the allowance makes no sense.
What pisses me the fuck off the most is that as Military, we see ZERO FROM THE SPOILS OF WAR, but all these motherfuckers get low rent contracts and them and their fucking spoiled ass kids see every fucking dime of it, I'm sick of this shit as much as the next guy…that's why I have to go to school full time, work full time, and stay in outstanding shape because if I get sick I can't fuckin afford to pay for it, awesome…WAY TO GO AMERICA.