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What happens in the military ?

What happens in the military?

Hello, my name is Elias, I am originally from Mexicali and I have a question, I am interested in joining the American military but I have a question, how much does it pay and what happens when you join?

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Jamie’s Answer

Not sure about the pay since I have been out for so long but you can use this link to see general enlisted and officer pay.
https://militarypay.defense.gov/Pay/Basic-Pay/Active-Duty-Pay/

Once you pass the ASVAB, you'll go through MEPS, pick your job, and be shipped off to basic training. I took the ASVAB before going to MEPS but I've heard people also take the ASVAB at MEPS. Before you get to your basic training unit, you will spend about a week in-processing with a bunch of other recruits. You get all your uniforms, underwear, socks, boots, and running shoes. I got my first checking account during in-processing also. I believe there was a small physical fitness test. I remember having to run a mile in a certain amount of time.

Basic training experiences vary. I did mine at Fort Jackson (Relaxin' Jackson), SC. You will spend your first 2-3 weeks getting yelled at and rushed everywhere you go. This is just to break you out of the civilian 'me' mindset and 'soldier' you up so to speak. You'll learn how to make your bed, do pushups, and address leadership. The next 6 weeks will be marksmanship, ruck marches, the gas chamber, obstacle courses, etc. Listen to the drills, drink water. After you graduate from basic, you will go to your technical training school (AIT, tech school, A school, etc) to learn your job. Hope this helps. Youtube may be a better resource to be honest. Good luck to you!

Jamie T
Army 2002-2006
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much, Jamie! Elias
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Thank you comment icon Such a great help may god bless your souls Elias
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Eric’s Answer

Hello Elias,

Starting monthly salary in $1773.00 and you are paid twice a month, on the 1st and the 15th. If you decide to join the US Navy your salary goes up to $2631.60 by your 3.5yr mark. This is due to the fact that the Navy gives you the pay grade of E1 through E4 with time in service, as such by that 3.5yr mark you’ll be an E4, provided you don’t get into any trouble and you are competent at your job.

There are also a number of additional pays you may be entitled to that will increase your monthly salary, but I highly recommend speaking to a recruiter in your area. For transparency, I am a Navy recruiter for the southern Milwaukee area in Wisconsin. Hope that information helps you.



Respectfully,
Eric E. Hopkins, MHA, RMA
HM2(FMF), USN
Thank you comment icon I will use this advice as I prepare for my career. Elias
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James’s Answer

Hello there! The salary scales shared in this discussion serve as an excellent guide for you when exploring this topic. Compensation varies greatly between enlisted members and officers in the military. While military pay may seem less compared to what a civilian could earn in a similar role, the benefits are truly valuable. You're entitled to a free college education and healthcare. The military also provides housing, either on or off the base, all of which is already covered. Therefore, your earnings can be allocated to other expenses. It's an important factor to remember when contemplating a military career. Enlisting in the military was the best choice I've ever made. While I'm not wealthy, I've had sufficient funds to travel and enjoy life. As long as you manage your money wisely, it will never pose a problem.
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Shane’s Answer

Also keep in mind that including your base pay, you will also receive free benefits that will increase what you make overall. * Free room and board, plus all your meals and medical are paid for by the military. And you have access to CLEP testing for educational courses and start earning your degree while you're enlisted if you wish to do so. I'd highly suggest participating in the GI Bill and get access to more money after you complete your enlistment.

A CLEP exam is where you take a college course exam and if you pass it, you get college credits for that subject. This is only available for active-duty personnel, military spouses, and DOD Civilian employees, so definitely take advantage of that during your enlistment.


STG2 Shane Wood
Navy 1986-1996
Thank you comment icon Thank you for giving me advice. Elias
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Reid’s Answer

Hello, as a retired Naval Officer, I can share the typical progression within the military, regardless of the branch. Here's a more actionable version:

1. Begin with Basic Training - this is your first step into the military world.
2. Proceed to job-specific training - here, you'll acquire the skills needed for your chosen military role.
3. Take on your first assignment at your initial duty station - this is where you'll put your training into practice.
4. Evaluate your experience and decide whether a military career is right for you.
5. Pursue all necessary certifications and further education to enhance your job performance.
6. Strive for continuous growth throughout your career, developing your leadership skills along the way.
7. Lastly, start planning for your transition from military to civilian life.
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