Despite the possibility of the United States going to war with Iraq, there are still many advantages to being in the military. A person receives many incentives when he or she joins the military. Upon enlistment he or she is entitled to an enlistment bonus. The amount of the bonus may vary by military specialty up to but not exceeding $8000. However, the greatest incentive the military offers is in the form of the numerous federal benefits. The benefits range from remarkable life insurance options to rewarding retirement benefits and extraordinary educational opportunities.
All members of Uniformed Services are automatically insured under Service members" Group Life Insurances (SGLI) for the maximum amount of $250,000. The premium for this vast amount only costs the service member $20.00 per month. This coverage continues 24 hours per day, 365 days per year, regardless of duty status. For as little as $9.00 per month, a member's spouse and children are included in the life insurance. The coverage for the member's spouse is $100,000 and the coverage for children is $10,000 per child. This is a great opportunity for a member to provide for the welfare of his or her family. .
A decision to remain in the military is well rewarded with unique retirement benefits. In addition to a monthly retirement check, retirees also receive services such as health care and unlimited commissary privileges. The commissary is a non-profit grocery store that can save the retiree about 20% - 25% on his or her food bill. The most rewarding retirement benefit is the health care package. Patients have their choice to get treatment from a civilian doctor or at a military facility. The military health insurance also covers prescription drugs at a low co-payment of $3.00 for generics and $9.00 for name brand medication. A service member may receive these retirement benefits once he or she reaches age 60 and has twenty creditable years of service.