Yesterday Tom Philpott reported that the House Armed Services Committee endorsed key portions of the Obama administration’s plan to begin to raise out-of-pocket costs modestly for some TRICARE beneficiaries, particularly working-age retirees.
According to the article, the committee voted to allow the first increase in TRICARE Prime enrollment fees in more than 15 years. As reported here, the Defense Department budget proposal would include a modest increase for working-age retirees, those not yet on TRICARE For Life. The committee’s version of the bill would allow for the DoD’s request to increase premiums, bumping the rate by $30-a-year, which would raise the annual premium for individual coverage to $260, and an increase of $60-a-year for family coverage, making it $520 a year.
Since most veteran and retiree groups have conceded on the modest increase, this doesn’t come as much of a surprise. However, the issue that has been driving most of the debate is how future increases would be handled. DoD has been asking to have future increases pegged to the4 National Health Expenditure index which averages about 6% a year. However, under the committee’s version these fees for retirees will be adjusted each year to match the percentage rise in retired pay made through by the annual COLA or cost-of-living adjustment.
Read Tom Philpott’s latest article for more on the HAS Committees’ proposed defense budget.
BROKEN PROMISES began when the "free medical for life" (which was paid for by family separations, hardships, war etc) was taken away from military members. THis was more than a "verbal" agreement – some folks still have the promise in writing.
Then there was TRICARE FOR LIFE FREE – ya right! Tricare isn't free – AND – once a retiree hits age 65, he or she is dumped onto the MEDICARE system and must pay for Medicare Part B in order to continue receiving TRICARE. Suddenly that "free" medical for live is VERY EXPENSIVE even without a TriCare rate increase!
AND if the military retiree's spouse is not yet 65, the spouse's TriCAre medical must be paid for in addition to the sponsor's more expensive Medicare rate.
Confused? Ya…it IS confusing….and bottom line EXPENSIVE paying for that broken promise!
Hard to imagine veterans groups & retriee groups actually endorsing increases in paying for what was promised to them for life free….but….then again, the leaders of these groups are probably much like Congress dudes and Senators – they can afford to be members in these groups…the real live majority of military retirees find that the premiums for their FREE medical for life have become too pricey for their Retirement pay to handle.
Hmmm….do we eat this month? Nope – gotta pay the premiums for our free medical.
PS
ANd what about DENTAL???hello—that's a joke! Retiree dental insurance is VERY pricey (ya, dental and vision were part of that free-for-life promise)…and with the $$ cap on service, you'll run out of coverage before you get dentures.
No teeth – no health.
IF WE REALLY WANT TO SAVE $$'s – we need to re-open military hospitals and train the military to take care of the military!!!
As soon as military and retirees were dumped onto the civilian medical system – the PRICE WENT UP!
65
I agree with everything you say. When the politicians are voted out of office they should not receive any benefits. I we stop paying for their retirement. They would not be a need to increase retirees health cost or balance the budget. Go out and get a job like we have too.
I agree the politicians should get nothing. All they did was to screw up our country that we served and protected.
IF THE LAME BRAIN POLITICIANS THAT WE ELECTED AND SENT TO WASHINGTON CONTINUES TO CHIP AWAY AT OUR BENEFITS WE WILL
BE HOMELESS AND WON'T HAVE ANY HEALTH CARE AT ALL. I'M WAITING FOR THE FINE SENATORS IN MY DISTRICT TO COME AROUND
ASKING FOR VOTES, I'M GOING TO REMIND THEM THEY DON'T HAVE MY VOTE, AND I'M GOING TO DO EVERYTHING I CAN TO TELL ALL
MY FRIENDS TO VOTE FOR THE CANDIDATES RUNNING AGAINST THEM. THEY DON'T CARE FOR THE PEOPLE IN THEIR DISTRICTS AND
THEY HAVE WRITTEN THE VETS OFF. FACE IT FELLOW VETS , WE HAVE NO ONE TO FIGHT FOR US IN WASHINGTON.
AMEM bearcat5!
YOU ARE SO RIGHT BEARCAT5 THE MILITARY IS SLOWLY CAUSING THE VOLUNTARY MILITART FORCE TO GO AWAY. IF THIS CONTINUES
THE DRAFT WILL HAVE TO BE STARTED BACK TO KEEP A FIGHTING FORCE. PEOPLE ARE GETTING TIRED OF ALL THE LIES!!! YOU ARE
TOLD TO GET YOU TO ENLIST. I RETIRED WITH 28 YEARS SERVICE
NOW I AM OLD AND SICK AND THE GOVERNMENT IS WAITING FOR ME AND ALL THE OTHER VETS OF MY AGE TO DIE , BUT WHILE WE ARE STILL LIVING THEY ARE GOING TO CUT ALL THE BENEFITS THEY CAN.
IT IS A CROCK TO LOOSE BENEFITS WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
I really agree with you. I have contacted all my state reps and they seem more affraid of those tea perty folks. Let them go to war and loose just a little like we have and let them take away what was promissed to them for life.__Let Obamas Aunt who lives in Boston Ma get low income housing, free collage tuation limo service to and from her classes for Free. She was granted aslim and gets disability assistance from something she says is owed to her by us americans. What a laught
Where did you get this info? Your comment has nothing to do with the topic. Remember it is your elected officials that is backing this change in TRICARE premiums.
It has everything to do with the topic! My husband is a Navy retiree and was PROMISED FREE medical for life. It is not even close to being free. Wake up…
IT'S A WASTE OF TIME AND EFFORT TO CONTACT OUR MORONS WE ELECTED TO OFFICE. EVERY TIME I SEND AN EMAIL I GET A
LETTER BACK WITH A LAME BRAINED EXCUSE THAT THEY ARE NOT ON A CERTAIN COMMITTEE AND THEY CAN'T DO ANYTHING TO PREVENT THESE IDIOTIC COMMITTEES THE GOVT. BRINGS IN TO DO STUDIES AND RECCOMEND SOME WAY TO CUT!!! MORE
BENEFITS, UNLESS WE ALL BAND TOGETHER TO VOTE THESE PEOPLE OUT OF OFFICE OUR SHIP IS SINKING FAST. WE MUST STICK TOGETHER AND VOTE THEM OUT. ALL YOU FELLOW VETERANS ACROSS THE NATION, GIVE THIS SOME THOUGHT
BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE.
two years of no raises followed by increased insurance costs, equals a net loss!!!!!!!!!!!!
just part of the NEW gov run health care – get them all out of office
I totally agree. We need some Senior NCO's to run for office and straighten things out. I served for 24 years and was medical boarded out. If it weren't for disability I'd really be in rougher shape. Plus they still are taking part of my disability out of my retirement pay. And the non-esistant Dental that was promised back in the 70's I'm paying for through my current job. I say no one should be in officd that hasn't served in our "Armed Forces" and then they'd have an idea what we're about." they should change the "Tri-Care " name to "trivial care". Kick us to the curb then complain when we end up homeless, caring sgns asking for money and food. Thank God, I'm not in that bad of shape. YET!
I, too, think it is shameful how so many promises have eroded during my 32 years of Military Service and subsequent Civil Service career. Had I known in January 1969 that my own government could not be trusted to keep the promises made to me I would have most certainly chosen different careers. I might have even run for Congress that seems to be exempt from benefit losses and make their own rules without answering to anyone.
I FEEL THE SAME WAY. IF I HAD KNOWN THIS WAS GOING TO HAPPEN TO THE VETS. I WOULD HAVE PUT THOSE 28 YEARS IN
ON A JOB WITH SOME BENEFITS, AND I'M SURE THE RETIREMENT CHECK WOULD HAVE AMOUNTED TO MUCH MORE, INSTEAD I AM DRAWING PEANUTS. IT'S A HARD LESSON TO LEARN, THINK ABOUT IT YOUNG PEOPLE BEFORE YOU SIGN ON THE DOTTED LINE.
You are right on..!!! The largest shock I received when I retired was my first doctors visit. I have a number of doctors within 10 miles from my house. The waiting room was full. I walked up to the reservation desk, and was told to please wait . The doctor said ” I dont know how to tell you this but we dont accept Tri-care but we do accept Medicaid because they pay more” Immediately I knew what the government thinks of those who have fought for this country. I ended up driving over 100 miles round trip to a military base in order to receive services. It’s a shame the way they treat those who have retired. If there is a war, your a hero, if not your just an expense they dont want to assume.
You are so right. They want you to give your all and then when you retire they just forget about you. I didn't vote for Obama, and will not vote for him or his office this time. Lies is all we ever get.
This is a letter I sent. If you agree with it please send it to your Congressperson.
Part 1 of 3
Congresswoman / Congressman their name
Local District office address
Dear Congresswoman / Congressman their name,
The reason for this letter is to encourage you to support our veterans with quality health care for their dependents through age 26.
I understand that the recent Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Public Law 111-148) requires civilian health plans that provide medical coverage to children to make that coverage available until the child turns 26 years of age. The Act did not give the Department of Defense the authority to offer this benefit through TRICARE.
2 of 3
To remedy this situation, the proposed Extended TRICARE Coverage for Military Families Now Act – “Prohibits terminating the eligibility of an individual who qualifies for treatment as a dependent under TRICARE (a Department of Defense [DOD] managed care program) solely by reason of exceeding the age limit of 21 years, or 23 years if enrolled in a full-time course of study at an approved institution of higher learning and is, or was at the time of the member's or former member's death, in fact dependent on the member or former member for over one-half of the child's support.” Further, this act offers a re-enrollment option for those who have been adversely affected by the new mandate for Young Adult policies. Coverage for these dependent individuals should continue through the age of 26, similar to their civilian counterparts.
3 of 3
This Act seems to contribute to this nation’s responsibility to honor our veterans. In this case, veterans are not seeking preferential treatment, simply treatment for their dependents commensurate with that offered to civilians.
I genuinely appreciate the role you play in shaping our country. As your constituent, I trust that my voice may be heard through your vote. Thank you for your efforts to make peace a reality in our lifetime.
Respectfully,
You guys all seem to biggest bunch of whiners and ill-informed malcontents I have every encountered. I guess it is okay when Vets ask for handouts but not anyone else. Stand up and take care of yourself.
Be part of the solution, not the problem. Like most Americans the government cannot balance the budget. Now that they are trying to get this house of cards in order you are all complaining the our precious military is being touched. It is common fiscal sense. everyone needs to share the pain. As an active duty Marine who recently returned from Afghanistan I expect little, especially not to support grown children with my Tricare benefits, who if they want medical should join the military or get a job
I think it is time to call the "whaaa-mbulance", stop your bellyaching and stop the growth of creeping socialism. our nations' founders and fore-bearers would shake their heads at your behavior.
From a RET 1SG Viet Nam Vet Marine.I don't know what Marine Corps you were in but it couldn't be the same one I was in ! Spend 20 plus years in the service, work 20 plus years at a civilian job than you can spout off- BOOT !
You have missed the point of this conversation! It is not from a bunch of "ill-informed malcontents", it is about the promisses that were made and broken by our governemnt. We are not asking for something for nothing we are only asking for what was promissed for our sacrifices. (Some much mre than others.)
Why raise the fees for those who have done something for the US? The politicians get a heathly health care package when they retire. I often wonder if every time a decision was made in regardss to the people that it would affect politicains what decisions would politicians make then. The american people are making less and less and giving out more and more. Where does it sto?
you got it right !!!!!
bearcat5:
I agree with you completely. I was promised free for life when I did my time for the country….where is the country now when we need them. How much sacrifice do you have to give………..20 + years of loyal service making nine deployments……They long seperation from your family with nothing but the occasional letter to keep you going. I guess they can just change the rules when they want to…………wonder what would have happened if we would have changed the rules during our time. Let us cut some of the high salaries that the elected officials get….If i remember right I think they get free medical for life??? who is playing fair!!!!!!!
Very well said! Would like to ask, which health plan is it that allows the members of congress and the president to be treated FREE without having to pay a premium at Besthesda Naval Hospital ??
I agree with you 100%. This whole thing sucks and it is not right. I don't understand how we managed to go from free to fees. Imagine that; serve your country and get crapped on when you need it. It would help if more former military personnel with a spine would run for congress. I am tired of this whole fiasco.
Soon those pricks will make retiring age 70 and they are working on it to. Why can't people who are Liberals not see the light yet? Why are they so fricken stupid it's sickening. Why and how can anybody think that Obama is the best President we ever had? Why are we as a military family letting this SOB dupe us . Why are there so many in their twenty something so fkn stupid, that when Obama goes around trying to HOOK MORE MILITARY into voting for his lame ass, those twenty somethings fall for his b.s. lock stock and barrel. In turn they vote for this stupid bastard thinking he's going to turn the world around and everyone will love each other like we are in the land of sunshine and lollipops. WAKE THE HELL UP!! Obama is nothing, and he has done nothing, he will do nothing DONT VOTE FOR HIM OR BUY his BS fkn t shirts, pens, cups, HELP MAKE HIM A LOSER don't buy s—t!
Yep, I can see this bullshit all around. Just last month my wife's tricare co-pays for medications went from $9 per prescription to $22 per. The majority of these yahoos in congress weren't even born when we served and can barely spell military service much less have served themselves. So, who were the so called "vet reps" and "group leaders" that made this asinine decision? It was retired admirals, generals and such that can afford it. Once again, the main corps of veterans, groundpounding enlisteds, get screwed as usual.
Oh yea. I forgot one. What the hell is COLA? Must be a softdrink or something. I've been retired for almost 11 yrs and have never seen a COLA increase accept for the first year I retired. And retirement age? I bet a lot of you, like myself, are under 65, disabled and unable to work and are getting screwed out of benefits by the VA. What gives? And how much more bull_shit can we take?
Bearcat. Who has the promises written down and signed by the veteran and an officer? I have never seen it or read it on any reenlistment contract and I was in from 67 to 88. The promises were on pamphlets, yes, but if it isn't in a contract it is just propaganda and means nothing.
WE need to revolt and revolt now this is disgusting we are at the whim of our congressman and senators we need to impeach them all. Then become an isolated country!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Here we go again. Take away from the ones have served their time for this great country so that our elected officials, who closest they have come to a war is in the line at McDonalds, sits back and makes the big bucks and does not have to worry about their healthcare or pay. Why don't these people take a cut in pay and raise their Health Insurance Premiums? Your'e right bearcat , just another broken promise that we as retirees have seen. And I agree, we have military doctors, let them do their job.
i just feel like since we have done our time (retirees), the government just kicks us to the curb.
Bearcat45. I know it will raise you hackles, but free medical for life was never a fact. No law was ever passed by Congress providing free medical care for life. Those folks, about whom you spoke, who "had it in writing" probably had a paper signed by their recruiter, whom you could believe as much as a used car salesmen. It is a hard fact, but true. No one lied except your recruiter, and they are still doing it today.
CWO4 USN(Ret)
Your right but the only thing you forgot is now they are taking away everyones Medicare so where does that leave us. Making us go back and pay for private medical insurance. So I'm counting Three lies on the same subject.
This is the new Amerika. We vets are now supposed to get in line behind the illegal aliens and all the rabbits who never served.
Polar Bear here: Congress always uses the backs of those who had guts enough to serve the USA by going into harms way. Many gave all and all gave some; however, all deserve to be respected by the Congress and DOD to live up to the promises of FREE CARE for LIFE if you live to collect. Now, we live and we are punished for serving our country with the willingness to give our lives while Congress lavishes in their dollar rich environment with no service involving any danger to themselves. Shame on them all!!!
BOHICA, It is sad the GOVERNMENT does not fullfill their obligations, I still have my initial contract with Uncle Sam when I joined the Military..It has a claus which states the benifits I would recieve if I retired after 20 years..Yes one is of recieving full Medical coverage the rest of my life with no payments due… WHAT HAPPENED ???
Can you produce a copy?? After 10 years in recruiting I never saw a contract that read benifits after 20 years.
I think you are expressing the thoughts of many older members of the military. It does make the guarantee of free medical a little worthless.
I totally agree!!!!!! Uncle Sam should be ashamed about his treatment of military veterans! Well, once the word gets out that being in the military is not such a good deal anymore…………less people will volunteer. Then I guess Uncle Sam will have to bring the draft back which I know the American people would fight him on!
Questions – What is a "working age retiree?" – before Social Security retirement age?
Yes Bearcat. I'm mostly concerned as I see nothing yet about those of us who are disabled and can't work but fall in this catagory.
ITCS, did you have a law firm help you get Social Security Disability? If you can't work you deserve it and can get it if a law firm helps you. They work for no pay unless they win and then take less than $5,000 of all your back pay you have coming..
I find it interesting that everyone talks about getting this benefit after "only" twenty years and service and don't mention that some put in nearly thirty and will still be subject to this.
Times change, the newer military now has stringent high year tenure rules applied. Navy for example, you have to be a Chief (E7) to go more than 20 and you have to be a PO1 (E6) to go to 20. I think it's roughly the same in all branches though there may be a little variation. HYT for E7 is 24, E8 is 26. To go past 26 now, you have to be a senior officer or an E9. I'm not sure of the current rules for officers but it has more to do with 'failure to select' a certain number of times.
The people talking about 'only 20 years' think those 20 were a free ride and ignore the parts they don't want to think about, like getting shot. They want to think about the retired O6, not E6, never realizing there are probably 500 to 1 ratios there (if not more).
How about 41, and I can't even get a pair of hearing aids.
Check your local MTF. Some of them participate in a "at cost hearing aid" plan that will at least let you get the hearing aids thur them at below full comercial rates. Not a perfect deal but it saves me about $ a set.500
20 or 30 we all deserve better than we will be getting and are getting…
yes I reckon 30 years vets should not be subject to this!
How about my husband who is a working age reiree but was laid off from his job 6 months ago and still no employment chances in sight. And, where we live, most employers don't offer health insurance, and if they do, it's very costly. Why does Obama want to keep paying for his hand-out to his rich friends at AIG, etc by taking it from the military. Is he not the most shameful president we have ever had running this country?
why are you asking that question? Did you not for vote for him and liked all the change that he promised..come on let us have some more of this changes we love this challenges and strive for such things..vote for him again in '12 so we can enjoy some more changes..
True Free medical for life…. What a broken promise. Additionally I a working age retiree??? But I' was laid off from a Federal Govt position, been unemployed for over 2 years now and like 14 million others I cannot find a job. So hey Congress lets raise my costs even more! If you look at the proposed well maybe COLA increase for 2012 offset by these higher Tricare Cost…. well that just wiped out any increase I would have seen in my pay. Wake up Washington your hurting the military/ disabled vets and retirees even more!
"working age retiree" is that person that can still work due to retirement after 20 or so years that makes him or her only at age 40 yrs old approx. so if they continue to working for another company after military service then they continue to pay.
LIES LIES AND MORE LIES..I have not received a COLA in what 2/3 years? Does this mean that when we get no COLA the rate will not go up?? Yeah time to fire these knuckleheads
Actually, under the House proposal the answer is yes. That does mean the rate wouldn't go up in subsequent years if there is no COLA increase. If the House had gone with the Pentagon proposal, rates would go up with no COLA if medical costs went up.
That's the way it works for us on medi care TFL. Any increase in medi care can't go up more than the cola and then only a % of it.
4 years Warren,
totaly agree. COLA is a thing in the past. Commissary gone up. PX gone up, now this, and no increase in pay. Not only that. the Tax help was totaly overlooked and now 30 – 40 more $ coming out every month for that.
Retired military people in my area getting ready to fight back. Looking up to see who is on the HAS.
Ike Skelton would have never let this happen to us and he truly loved the military. I am disappointed in Buck M. He is a joke and a yes sir boy.
ALL OF THE WASHINGTON MORONS ARE 'YES' BOYS TO WHO EVER SLIPS THE MOST MONEY UNDER THE TABLE. I AGREE WITH ONE OF THE PREVIOUS POST THEY ALL NEED TO GO IN 2012. WHY CAN'T THE
CONGRESSMEN WHO ARE SUPPOSELY LOOKING OUT FOR THE VETERANS BAND TOGETHER AND BLOCK THE VOTE ON THESE COMMITTIES? IT GOES RIGHT BACK TO BEING A YES BOY. MONEY UNDER THE TABLE.
i know ike and you are RIGHT!!!
I'm with you soaringeagle. I use to visit Ike Skelton and other Congress people (1990/1) that understood what we have gone through to reach retirement. I think we ought to send all of Conress to Train with the military for a week and understand the issues, then we'd be OK (except for yes-men). As we move away from Greatest Generation leaders in Congress and into baby-boomers (and Gen-X/Y) it is going to get worse.
Now they are balancing the budget on our backs. bearcat5 you are right about it is mostly officers who agree with this crap. They make 2 or 3 times the retirement we enlisted do.
Easy! I'm a retired officer and I'm with you guys 100%. Promises made and broken. Don't make it an O, E issue. Its not. WE ALL need to elect peple that represent US. That's why we're getting screwed.
Agreed Mike. This isn't an O E issue. The only time it comes even close to one, is the perceptions outsiders have of the amount of retirement income. They tend to think the amount is more like what an officer earns.
In the scheme of things, an Officer makes in retirement what I do if they go the same years. 65% of base pay. Thats an earned benefit no different between us. The only 'difference' is that the $60 increase is going to be a larger percentage of my retirement than yours but those are the breaks. I did after all, elect to never submit an officer package because I liked my job too much. My military career also translated well to civilian life which isn't always the case.
I wrote my congress critters and got back some well thought out non-form letters (as well as some form letters). They are fighting to keep the hike as reasonable as possible and tied to COLA increases. One of the issues brought up in them is a large number of us retirees who are working and have access to company health care insurance, elect to not get it because we have tricare. This is ominous as it costs a lot more often times. I worry that will be the next angle of attack, forcing us off tricare in all essense 'because we have access to other plans'.
I was enlisted and an officer, went for it because the ones I saw couldn't get it right, hard to get there, so better look in the mirror, as you made the choice! I am against the rise in insurance after two years of no raises when my expenses have gone up…so loss for three years in a row!
Well, this is one retired officer's WIDOW who completely disagrees with this. I receive an annuity which barely keeps me standing upright. I've been not fully employed (have resorted to temping & substitute teaching) for 2 years. PLUS, I have significant health issues: Type 1 diabetes, Graves' disease, high blood pressure. My copays for my supplies are ENORMOUS. So, please be aware that there are others in the "Officer community" who are NOT in great financial shape, are not making it financially, and who have no one who really gives a crap.
Senator Webb said he wouldn't let this happen. We shall see.
SENATOR WEBB NEEDS SOME HELP FROM SENATOR SHELBY, AND
SENATOR SESSIONS, AND THE REST OF THE SENATORS WHO ARE
SUPPOSEDLY STANDING UP FOR THE VETERANS. THEY WILL BE REMINDED OF THIS WHEN RE-ELECTION TIME COMES AROUND.
Senator Webb is not running for re-election so he can benfit from his term in office of a retirement of 1 term not 20 yeares like us military.
They've already done it soaringeagle. What a damn crying shame! An entire walkout of all service members: Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force—–active duty, Reserve, Guard, Coast Guard, Retires, Veterans, hell just every damn body and lets then see what the hell happens!! Lets put Congress out there on the front lines see how quick they'll change their POS warped minds. Protect yourselves LIARS, the rest of us will protect our own only!!! I truly HATE what's being done to we the military and AMERICA!! GOP 2012!!
Yea, lets balance the budget on the very backs of the people who give there all to defend this nation. Iam sure there are a lot of other places that they can take money from, other then the Military people who have defended this country. Like the free loaders who give nothing, but have their hand out all the time. We can send billions to other counties, but take away from us. It sickens me to see this, Once it starts, its a down hill slope from then on. One thing that should happen is that there should be a separate fund for Tricare, not taken out of the Department of Defense budget. A fund that is set up to maintain the level of service for us veterans, that Congress cannot tap when they need money, like they did with social security.
Bart: You have it right. I love my country but sometimes I question the ability of those in leadership positions, especially those that have never served one day in the service of this country. Then they want to reneg on keeping their promises to us on the benefits we feel we earned. Then some wise person decides we have too much income if we are working so we shouldn't use the health care that was promised on retirement. I am not too pleased to say the least.
hip hip hurray
The Republican relentless attacks on the middle class reaches into the real patriots wallets, the military.
I just heard that the republicans passed a bill to continue giving billions to the oil barons while they put more burdens on the soldiers.
When I took a job as an investigator, I was told to follow where the money leads. I am sure it leads to the oil lobbiests supporting the republican elections and are now getting their return on investment from the them.
Get them Bart. How true you are on that.
I agree but there is one thing, Congress never saw a thing that said "Hands OFF". To them it read " Hands In As Needed".
pretty soon we will have to go to china to get our health care we military are not going to win they congress and president are using are social security to pay there bills what next
The President said we ALL must sacrafice something to balance the budget–this includes the military. So after 20 years in the military, you get a check for life, where else can you get that???????? Then at age 38 you go out and work another 20 years ang get ANOTHER check. Sounds like a good deal to me that most people do not have. I am also a veteran and we all know is is a good deal, some people just want it to be a super deal. Thanks God of what you have and move on.
Where else in the civilian sector do you sacrifice your life, time with your family for the well-being of the country. If it was such a good "deal" why didn't you do it until retirement age? Because you couldn't handle the sacrifice. That was your choice.
I think the point is that people were recruited based on these so-called promises, and continued their service based on these promises. So, now lying is o.k. and these retirees should just "deal with it"? I don't think so.
You much of been a pencil pusher 100% for sure. Some of us who did twenty years are broken, not hirable. FIve combat tours. Yes most pencil pushers and support personnel who retire at 20 year are able to move on and get another job. Do give me this bullcrap retired.. In must cases it enough to pay your rent.
I agree with you were all in this together and every job in the military is important weather its flying a plane, fixing it, getting th parts or taking can of records each and every job is important and is part of the chain!! Because you pull a trigger and dont use a pen your no better then the rest of us who made many sacrifices as well!! I never went into combat I was ACFT maintainer and I am broken too 50% rating, but for you to assume someone was a pencil pusher is wrong they have an important job too!! Keep that in mind it all of us together not against each other
at least someone has sense here
Why does he have to be a pencil pusher. I know a lot of combat arm Soldiers that retired at 20 years and went back to college. They are very successful .
YOU ARE RIGHT JAKE, THE MAJORITY OF THE 25-30 YEAR VETS
ARE SICK, OR BROKEN DOWN AND NO ONE WILL HIRE THEM .
WE CAN'T DEAL WITH LOOSING ANY MORE OF OUR BENEFITS.
I may not spell or write the best but I understand. I started my life as a military daughter from birth and married a military man who also retired, like my father, and let me tell you your post is terrible. I had a lifetime of not having the most important men around sometimes in my life when I needed them. Yes, they made the choice to reenlist for the good of our country and their families and earned that "check" and so called" free healthcare for life" and they made sacrifices and did what they promised to do. So DID THEIR FAMILIES. The government can not go back and take away 20 years of worry so they shouldn't be able to take back promises. The working aged retired! What a joke. The men knew when they did 20 years they would still have to work. You are a self centered person to think that getting a check and our health care, as promised, is a GREAT DEAL. Maybe you were one of those guys that didn't give 100% of your self to the military and others in your command had to carry your load and you should never have been allowed to retire. Maybe someone in your command should have seen to it that you couldn't reenlist. The people I have known that have been military have always given more than I've ever seen in the civilian work force, and they do it out of a strong sense of honor. Having the fear of being put in harms way, being seperated from ones family, living overseas away from extended family, moving all the time is just like going to work anywhere? You must be joking. I will Thank God when we have some people leading this country that care, that have honor, and know what the hell they are doing. Thank God for the Veterans and Thank God for the Wifes and Children of those men. Retired Military Have Already Made Enough Sacrafices and should not have to make any more, this includes the Working Age. Start new laws for new recruites, look at not giving step increases to federal employess, look at everything but the Retired Military.
I need to add that if they do anything with the new recruited, they need to do it before they sign up and know what they are getting for giving their service to the USA. This should be for all military. They should all get what was told to them when they first signed up. Not change things after 4yrs, 10yrs, or after they retire. Everything should be grandfathered in. Plain and Simple
Katrina, thank you for your soken words,they need to be heard. I have 27 years in the service, and so much has deteriated from what my Government promised who served.. Now they let us go to pasture without the means….how sad. I can only guess, but thoses who have not served in uniform for our country are the ones elected to serve the public without a clue what sacrifices we made for them who stay behind. I must tell you that is why we went,the honor, the love of country and the word that we would be taken care of. How sad not to serve with honor, maybe we shouldn't vote fopr men or women that don't serve this nation. Don't even try to say thoses in General service serve, maybe so but with out the sacrifices you Katrena are talki ng about. You have the knowlwdge you have the logic, I salute you, your dad and your husband, thanks for trying to voice a sensable explaniation, tyhere isn't one though and it gets sadder everytime we vote for someone woth no military background.
I agree with you 100%!!!!
Well said, Little Sister, I know where you come from I spent most of my adult life ,enlist in '63 at seventeen and retired in '92). I don't know how I did it but I was able to keep my wonderful bride, going on 40 years now, while serving along side some of the most dedicated and honorable people I have ever had the privilege of knowing. GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS AND MAY HE LOOK AFTER THOSE THAT ARE STILL ON DUTY.
You are right on target. Most of this comes from having leaders who have NEVER served in any branch. Thanks for your input. A retired Sergeant Major.
Thank you! I have expressed this same opinion to all my elected officials.
OK Ron I get the point, but taken away what was promised to me 30 years ago isn't a super deal, 27 years of my life for 28k a year is not superdeal. What was super was they promised medical , then TriCAre for life , now we pay for dental, vision out of the retirement check, and by the way I'm still taxed unless I have a % of a disablity. OK I can make adjustments but isn't that the point, they take from what we alreday gave, now they take from what they said we deserved, now we don't deserve it, more lies is what I'm getting out of this, why because I didn't die along side my buddies? Sacrifice, if you were there you would understand it's just not me that's sacrificcng it's my dependents, my wife the one who backed me up now can not trust the country we served, it's the lies ron, we can deal wit the truth.
One has nothing to do with the other. When we joined the military they didn't tell us after 20 you can retire but if you are still old enough to work, your retirement is different. How stupid is that? First of all, I would only be ok with this when Congress starts paying for their perks. We need to drain the swamp in Washington, they are nothing but slum lords. Pathetic.
What about those who put in 30 or more years in the military and still have to suck up the cost increase for up to 17 years before getting thrown onto Medicare (which, oh by the way, will run out of money by then).
Yeah getting a job @ 38 or even 39. Well have u seen how tough the job market is! Well one an Pray they will be employed by an employer that one can even imagine there will be some type of retirement? Again… Why the hell is President Obama approving such healthcare as covering pregnancies up to 5 years after separation from active duty! Have u considered this is why the costs are rising. And as a recently retired military person, I'm making far less after 21yrs in the service… Increasing any amount of our annual budget may bankrupt me!
Ron
in what planet were you retired from? are you a single officer on retirement
because thats the only way that would make you put your foot in your behind….most of us that done 20 or more are not 38 years old, we hurt we are older and not many of us get a cushi job like you probably have, were you ever deployed? shot? hurt? away from family? multyple deployments
do you know how hard is to compete with a younger kid at the neighborhood Mc donalds? yeah your are one of those that has a cushion of a job… and probably got connections with the other officer buddies..
yeah SEMPER FI…. but you dont know nothing about that…
I don't know what kind of retirement check you get but ours wouldn't pay rent in most places! My husband served 20 years…lost part of his hearing, blew out a knee (needed a knee replacement at age 40 and can't get it until he is 50)…he fought to get disability and they finally rated him at 10%, but he can't do the civilian equivalent of what he trained 20 years to do in the military because of his knee. We won't go into how frustrating it is to have a 43 year old man barely be able to hear what people are saying in a normal conversation. He is currently unemployed. And we won't go into how bad his relationship is with his older children because he missed so much of their youth by being gone for the military. So please remind me again what your point was? Because my point is that retirees have already made their sacrifice…as have their families. How about Congress stop getting pay raises and stop being allowed FULL pay after serving only ONE term…for LIFE! They make 3 times as much as the average elisted, work less hours for less years and for far greater benefits! How about they make the sacrifice first and then talk to me about what we are supposed to sacrifice! Ron if you want to surrender YOUR military retirement I will happily set up a bank account that you can do a direct deposit to and help out this unemployed military retiree family! If you aren't interested then please sit down, shut up and have a nice day!
I am in full agreement with you Trae!!! Not every retiree falls into the category that Ron has described. His is the best case senario; I retired at age 46, with multipal health issues. I thank God I was able to get VA disability, cause I tried working in the civilian sector. I was within a week of being fired from my job when the disability came through. If my husband and I had to live off of my military retirement and his income….we would probably be living in a tent. I know I am very grateful for what I have, God has blessed me in many ways. And, I do not like what our government is doing to those of us who have given the best years of their lives, and families lives…..what is that old saying "What is good for the goose is good for the gander". So if politicans want to take away from us, then they should be leading by example and be ther first to cut back on their perks!!! God bless all my Military sisters and brothers (this includes the families).
Who else can get that most police and firemen can get that. Here in AZ they have a program where if one can retire they can opt to continue to work but not take their retirement checks those monies go into a account in their name and drawsabout 6/8% interest most walk away after those 5 yrs with about $225/250,000 in a check not bad.
SCPO, can you tell me the name of that program. My hubby will be retiring out in June, so June is his official month out all the way. He will have 20 yrs in. Boy I tried keeping him in LOL, only because Obama's b.s. was just starting who knew it would start getting this bad. After reading everybody's information on here meaning those who retired, can't find work, and or they don't get crap for retirement money is making me wonder with worry holly crap with are we going to do. We have one house we need to get rid of ( moving) and then another home to pick up on dishing out more money two homes until the one is gone. That should be good lol. He's not an officer, but he was in 5th group =). Yikes with to do. Well thanks SCPO for anything you can or might be able to give me any information on.
The police get HUGE free home grants (give aways not loans).
Ron. Are you sure you are a U.S. Veteran?! If you believe in this president then you will buy into his LIES about Obama-Care Creating Jobs and Reducing the National Debit ! Just to let you know that the C.B.O. has confirmed that Obama-Care will add 10 trillon dollars to the Debit when
fully in placed and that it won't create any Jobs ! As far as Serving 20yrs. and then Retiring and getting a check. You of all people should know that if
you had not served in the U.S. Armed Forces you could have made 2 or 3 times the amount of your monthly pay including retirement ! I have Thanked The Lord God Almighty for what I have and the People Who Served in the Past ,Present and Future !
Lord keep all who Serve Safe and Bring Them All Home Again. In Christ Jesus I ask This AMEN.
Well said and well written. Marine, 20+ years, GySgt. Was and am proud to have served. The " check is a lot less than I need, and a lot less than I expected. But all of that is manageable. What scares me the most is the way this country thinks. If there be no problems with the thought patterns of the people of America, look at this admin. If there were a better way to screw us, I cannot envision it.
A military member is continously sacraficing. Not just war, separation, long deployments out of communication with loved ones, But With Historically low pay across the board. In no way is the military member paid for the duties and responsibilities assumed.
Pay comparability didn't come about until Regan in the 1980's and did not get there.
Remember – the retirement pay is based on basic pay not the full pay package! Most Pension plans are based on full pay.
Who else works and gets a lifetime pension? How about congress/senate after serving a lot less than 20 years or civilian companies with the old style pension plans that until recently were protected by unions and the law. That is a major overhead cost for a company and why they have been screaming to get out from under them – some sussessful some not.
Ron, having served 28 years as both enlisted and officer I find your comments totally off base and ill researched.
I have a few comments to make on this. First off I agree Ron you are full of crap! The military isn't what is breaking this country it is all the free loaders living off hand-outs created by politicians trying to get re-elected. This government was not designed to support full time politicians. Send them back to their states let them vote using electronic technology, let them work regular jobs and eat at the same benefit troughs as the rest of us do. Where else other than a politician can you serve part of a four year commitment and get benefits for life? Second off, you people that keep railing on those of us in support jobs, need to get over it. I served my country faithfully for 21 years.
I was in personnel, we were the guys who worked the 12 hour shifts to make sure your paperwork was in order, we put you on the planes and greated you on the other side getting off. I walked posts participated in field exercises, carried weapons and qualified with the rest of you. I left the military after 21 years broken and battered like the rest of you. Not everyone in those so called "soft jobs" ate donuts and drank coffee for a living, without us you wouldn't have gotten anywhere and you wouldn't be getting a retired check because no one would have been there to process your retirement paperwork! We are all getting screwed lets stop throwing rocks at each other and fix the problem. Send the politicians home to their states where they belong!
I agree with you were all in this together and every job in the military is important weather its flying a plane, fixing it, getting th parts or taking can of records each and every job is important and is part of the chain!! Because you pull a trigger and dont use a pen your no better then the rest of us wwho made many sacrifices as well!!
Grin, I'm with you brother. All of us did valid work regardless of type. People like you kept the paychecks running so we didn't have to worry about our families. People like me kept the connectivity running so you could email your loved ones when underway for months at a time, or make it possible for a GySgt call back to check on a sick marine who had to be left behind. Others did the best they could with the supplies and gear at hand to put a warm decent meal on the table for me.
It's all part and parcel of the same thing. Now, with the tricare shifting under all our feet, we are again together, supporting one another as we always have.
I don't agree with how Ron and some others state things but I can wrap my head around a modest increase tied to COLA. The $30 (or $60 for a family) is a bit less than the COLA since the advent of the tricare prime fees. I'd prefer if there was some way to apply it only to those who *are* working, not just an age based potential from an outsider.
My husband makes a decent case for this. 1967-1969 Vietnam (Army, Ranger) then 1971-1991 Navy. Rotten test taker, retired as E5. 10% disability was all he got though his knees are shot, he's got probable agent orange issues, and PTSD so bad I've spent years peeling him out from under beds and coffee tables when there's a loud sudden noise. Holding a job requires a very patient boss and he can no longer drive due to degrading eyesight. Yet, he falls in the 'still of working age' catagory for a few more years. Without my income and retirement check plus my disability (50%, severe back issues after going down a ladder the hard way when the ship took evasive action from a speed boat attack attempt in the gulf) he'd never be able to make it. I carry heafty insurance on me to cover him if something happens to me. If I were not here, and he had only his retirement check, that $60 increase (we have a HS aged daughter) would be a countable bite.
I'm sure there are others with similar tales here. I'm not sure the congress critters 'get it' that those of us still in 'working age' *are* working if we can.
You have got to be kidding! Yes we RETIREES get a check, but that check and the one we have to go out earn after active duty, might make up for the money lost when we "retired." Made it 28 years and had a lot left to willingly give. You know what the real check amounted to? Less than 50% of what I was making. Anyone that gets 50% at 20 really make even less! So yeah, we get two checks but…
Now we get no COLA for years and they want raise what we have to pay for health care? A good deal?? Ron, you need a reality check!
I'm getting the feeling Ron has a cushy job with a fairly fat paycheck. I have to admit, I do as well. I'm one of the 'lucky disabled' who's skill set translates to office type work. I'm a SQL programmer and Data Analyst.
I *personally* won't even notice a $60 increase but I'm there with my brethren in that it's got potential to be ugly for many of us. If my job 'goes away' I'm going to have a hard time finding another. I can only do one that doesn't require: standing, sitting or walking more than 15 minutes, lifting more than 20 lbs (and that is a struggle with anything more than 10 feet darn near impossible) and a relatively liberal sick leave policy (unpaid is ok if I run out of paid).
This is 'us'. This is how we are after 20-30 years service sometimes. We *need* affordable medical care to deal with the issues we have accrued while in service of our country. We aren't asking for the money we lost compared to the civilian sector over the decades, just medical care and the 50-75% base pay we signed on for.
I can wrap my head around it not being free, but it needs to remain *affordable* based on our retirement check. Perhaps, to those who didn't get hurt/disabled in ways that will never go away due to service, have a different view on the 'good deal'. Overall though I look back and agree with the Star Trek line: 'It was FUN!'.
Sacrifice?! Where in the civilian sector do they get shot at, rocketed and mortared daily to earn their retirement check?! I don't see those items written in the Union contracts we tax payers have to keep subsidizing. This guy sounds like an Obama voter to me, a full blown coolaid drinker… sacrifice
That's not the point. The point is that if you make apromise in writting, you should keep that promise. If you tell me ahead of time that we are going to pay for something after serving for 20 year, then you knew what was going to happen before you got into it. But to make a promise and then not keeping that promise that's another story. I'm sure that the majority of us are happy to get our retirement after 20 years; but we work for that money and those of us who still alive and didn't get kill in combat still enjoy this benefits. What about the ones who die. The point here is that you don't find to many people who want to serrve our country fof twenty years and then get nothing at the end. That is the point.
what are you Ron…an Officer?
Ron, I recognize your kind. You couldn't do the time and resent those who did. As i lie here in bed this morning (because I am too ill to get up) I am remembering all of the little whiners who called me a "lifer" (like that was some sort of deroatory term) as they ETS'd after two years. I did twenty years, and i am so totally messed up that many days I can't go to work and when i can i am in so much pain it hurts to sit, stand, or walk . I worry about paying for my daughters' braces, because If i lose my job , i lose my dental insurance (can't afford the retiree dental plan). I fear losing my job because i miss too many days due to what my great deal in the Army gave me (metal rods, screws, swollen joints, painkillers, and so much more!). If i had it to do all over again even knowing what i know now, i would do it without hesitation. Ron, do not give me anything. but stop trying to take what i earned, because i have paid for it. please excuse the poor typing, my hands are swollen and it is hard to type properly.
P.S. My son has chosen a military career, guess that makes me a double lifer.
WAY TO GO RONNNNNNNN – SPOKEN LIKE A TRUE POLITICIAN
GUESS TIMES AREN'T HARD ENOUGH FOR YOU……………
You idiot!!!!!!!!! When is Congress, the Senate and the President you so admire going to give up their pay and medical? I know they don't have to sacrifice. We do it for them. You are some kind of MORON.
Ron you are correct. It is a good deal, so my question is why isn't everyone standing up for the country and joining the service. My thought since it is a good deal we should start the draft again so everyone can see how great this country is. After 20 yrs service I am thankful however when you take from me what was promised and give to someone who has not served the country that hurts. Equal opertunity for all so let them leave home for 2-3- yrs go to foreign country and enjoy the life we did.
Say that to me who served 37 years and was let go at the age of 60. I'm now going on 62 and no one wants to hire a 62 year old man who now has diabetes. What about us? I can't go out and get another job. You were right for the 20 year man but what about the Veterans who have disabilities and sometimes no limbs? How can we like what we have and MOVE ON?
Yes it is a good deal if you survive…….when the majority put their lives on the line for others, then they may have room to talk. Until then, it is the general public and all the lying politicians that should be thankful for the veterans.
"The President said"…you whining a$$ liitle winch. Leave a body part laying on the battle field and then come back and tell me "the President said". Damn, skippy its a good deal, a deal lifers were promised and now the DoD renigs on. Go figure. No doubt Barny Franks is from your neck of the woods.
I think laying your life on the line in defense of our nation is sacrifice enough. How much money are they going to get back from us anyway? In the grand scheme of things, I’m pretty sure the military makes up a very small percentage of society. Having said that, the money recouped from us would just be a very small percentage of what’s actually needed.
you must of been in the Air force
Elitist exist in every branch of the military, It is an attitude of superiority and lack of compassion for others that separates them from the rest in the corps, They want the recognition and approval of those in power and do not identify with the common man.
not every one has the lavish life bestowed upon them…not every one that retires can turn around and get the same cushy job as a civilian – some of us have families and other priorities, some of us have only our retirement pay to live on, some of us have to relocate and/or take lesser jobs because of certain circumstances …don't presume to lump everyone together because a few have it all…
I feel very fortunate for the benefits my husband (an enlisted veteran) now receives and believe we all need to make allowances to reduce the national debt. The number of retirees is growing and more expense is accrued.
Indeed JMM, so how about we cut freeloader entitlements and not entitlements to those who have invested more than their share of blood, sweat and tears. It galls me how the praise and benefits go up in direct proportion to the flow of body bags coming from any given war zone. As soon the flow stops being major hemorrhaging, our elected pinheads brain dump the reason WHY we pay the military the benefits we do.
If the military had the same level of integrity the average member of congress does, this country would have ceased to exist long ago. Guess it's time to unionize and invoke collective bargaining. Beats trusting our elected leaders to watch out for our interests.
Sure, It is great when you have check coming in every month-but it is not enough to LIVE on, as an enlisted retiree. Some of us are not well enough to have another 20+ years to add to that income. If There was some 'sacrificing' on their part, I could deal with it an move on…but just one more vacation, one more mega-trip, one more special event at the White House with all the Elite, Cultured, Marxist minded social revolutionary…Some are created more Equal than others….1984 all over again. I thank God everyday for what I do have..and they need to know we will move on.
That is/was the deal! I also recieve 2 pensions, both from the government, for LIFE, that is what I decided to do. Do not disparage veterans who NEED or want to have enough money to live comfortably. Oh, check your spelling and grammar!!!!!!!!!!
i before e except after c
Those who "earned" their PROMISED benefits already sacrificed! There's a BIG difference being a 2 or 3 year veteran and serving a full twenty plus years and/or suffering some form of disability that entitles the vet to a military retirement and/or disability. Even a 2 or 3 year veteran is at least somewhat aware of the "cost" of military life. Exceptionally low earnings (I started out at $149.50 a month and supported my family on near poverty wages the first 10 to 12 years), family separations and attempts to maintain the costs of living apart; constant 12 and 14 hour shifts; loss of days off for exercises; and last minute cancelation of scheduled vacations (also result of exercises or real world needs) take a toll on marraiages. Over my twenty years, I know of very few counterparts that weren't on a second or subsequent marriage as result of military life.
Whether for patriotic reasons; to obtain an education we'd not otherwise been able to obtain; or, ?????; our military retirees and spouses accepted the poverty level wages, family hardships, ; and even risk of life, for the benefits promised us. Myself, although from a family having a military foundation, I "endured" my 20 years looking at my benefits as a savings account and as somewhat financial security for the future. Unlike many supporting taking away my benefits, I made enough "almost" to feed and clothe my family and didn't make enough to put money into stocks and bonds and/or into an IRA type savings. MY SAVINGS WERE THE BENEFITS PROMISED!
In the fair sense in making sacrifices, can I assume you have no objection to the govenment removing monies from your savings and/or assessing billings against you that are equivalent to what they've taken from and intend to further take from us?
how true
No, Ron, I work in a hospital "we ALL are not sacrificing . The illegals pay nothing for health care. They simply walk into the emergency rooms and
get treated free. Oh, yes, I forgot our president wants the hispanic vote.
pmw
Remember, not all military retirees falling into the category of "working age" can actually work… and we all don't put in 20 years and come out healthy. I'm medically retired after 13 years, and so broken I'm unemployable according to the VA and SSA. Destroyed my knees, ankles, feet, broken and arthritic back, and end stage renal disease on dialysis (along wtih another 20 or so ailments the VA found)… by the way, I'm only 35 years old. Now I'm stuck between a rock and a hard place. I'm on dialysis so I receive VA disability at 100%+ and social security. I have Tricare AND paying for Medicare. My retirement is so measly that I don't see a cent of it because all of it is offset by my VA disability. I make out ok with this because I'm single, so I can afford what Tricare and Medicare don't pick up and my prescriptions. Here's the kicker, I don't want to be a burden on the system but if I get a transplant, I lose my social security disability after 1 year and my VA disability is reduced to 30% for the kidney disease (plus everything else wrong, of course). 36 months after transplant I lose Medicare as well. All fine and good, IF I can get insurance elsewhere. Did you catch that I'm currently on dialysis and have lots of other ailments? Yeah, those are now pre-existing conditions no insurance company will touch. The anti-rejection medications reach far into the thousandS of dollars every month. Sure, Tricare will pick up a large chunck of that, but I can't afford insurance and medications on what my then measly retirement would be. My other option is to remain on diaylsis… for the rest of my life… and HOPE I beat the average life expectancy of a dialysis patient… just so I can continue being a burden on the system. So as far as I'm concerned, I HAVE made my sacrifices for this country, and I still proudly fly my flag 24/7/365. If the military would take me back I would be on duty in a heart beat, but they won't, even after a transplant.
My point, as drawn out as it may be, military members make huge sacrifices during the prime of our lives with the promise we will be taken care of in return, regardless of our age at retirement. So yes, for someone who was never sick or injured during their 20 years of service, starting another career is an option, and it might make some sense to increase their Tricare fees, however, the vast majority have been sick or injured to some extent during their careers and not all are able to walk out into another career or even work, and since the government wants a single option to cover everybody, the majority of the member's circumstances should out weigh the minorities. But what the hell do I know, I'm just a broken bag of meat paying taxes to a congress with only a few who truly know the meaning "to serve" and a president too busy apologizing to the rest of the world for those mean soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines who saved those same countries' necks more than once.
–end rant–
I already lost 3% of my retirement due to the "recent changes to the tax law, tax tables and other legislation" which began March 1. I have no problem doing my part to help reduce the debt incurred by the incompetent fools in Washington but this should also be spread out to other citizens. What's the chances of seeing food stamp entitlements and welfare payments reduced? At least vets worked for what they are receiving instead of being a sow and and squirting out another increase to the free Obama money they are receiving!
Well Ron its not a matter of getting a check every month or wanting a super deal. Its a matter of promises made and promises broken. Its the fact that we retirees put our lives on the line to protect this countries freedom. They want to increase the annual premium bases on the annual COLA increase.. Thats a joke…. Obama and his gang said the cost of living didnt go up but yet today we are paying close to 4 dollars for a gallon of gas. The more the price of gas goes up the more it costs to feed the family, But yet Big Oil had another profitable quarter and the government doesnt want to do anything about that. What is Obama and congress sacrificing. Maybe those congressmen and women that go one term shouldnt get a pension like they do. Maybe they should serve for 20 years as long as they get reelected, before they can collect that pension check. Sure we will move on but it wont be quietly and Im sure the other retired veterans out there are going to make themselves heard come 2012…. I say lets clean house and senate and get some true representatives of the people…..
i guess you didn't receive the promise of free health care. I am grateful for everything we have earned; thank you very much. I can't imagine a veteran making such statements. I suppose that it's alright to lie to people when you need them. I thought integrity was important; at least the last time I checked it was. Don't make excuses for a system that lacks integrity and honesty.
The president said jump so jump!!!!
I agree with you,20 yrs active is plenty.A few more in the civilian force and you can do alwright.(i have)
But the question is are you a retiree?
Where did YOU go and work another 20 and get another paycheck? I sure as heck didn't!!! I am a 100% service-connected disabled veteran. And no, I don't get concurrent receipt, because part of my service was as a reservist, even though the majority of it was active duty. And I haven't seen a raise in 2 years, and probably won't for who knows how long, even though my Medicare Part B has gone up, and my Medicare Supplemental has gone up. And even though you may think Medicare Supplemental is 'optional', it sure isn't. The closest VA clinic to me is over an hour away, and even at 100% SC, I am lucky to be seen 4 times a year, if that. The closest VA hospital is over 2 hours away, and its care is a joke. And I served 22 years, and only retired when my spine and knee gave out (thank you U.S. Navy for that).
So don't even go there, Ron….it sounds like you did it just for the money, not for the reason most of us did…to serve our country, and defend it, and the people living here. Why don't you donate your retirement pay, to help pay for the health benefits for the rest of us, and you can live on that 'ANOTHER check' you referred to, if it is so great???
you are an ass, if you want to give what you worked for away thats fine i will even help you, and i mean this, you shoud be able to do whatever you want to. I served also so don't tell me not to take care of my family after almost missing 20 years of it, I'm really not complianing, except now when my payday rolls around from hard work and sacrfice and willing to work agian WHAT tuff luck for me? you must be a LIB.
You need to do your research! Look at the cost for health care for our elected officials. Most, if not all, were wealthy before they were elected. Yet, they get truly FREE health care. They serve 4 – ? years, not doing their jobs I might add, yet get this benefit made of GOLD. Let them and all those earning $100,000 yr pay for their own. Then come talk to me about my out of pocket cost and raising my premiums. Super Deal? I'd just like a job at this point. 20 years myself!
Ron,
We all know the trolls and therefor nobody should really get upset at you!
Just a comment to you though.
Why do you care?!?!?! Why care about what others have? It sounds like you feel like you've been short sticked…or maybe you got the long stick!
The Military for a career is 1. Not the Best 2. Not the Worst. If you did 2 years or 40 years, then you have made sacrifices.
You know 30 years ago many companies gave pensions and had companies actually were loyal to their loyal workers. A lot of companies cannot provide pensions because of the CEO pay has gone out of control and not realitive to profits of the company….so who loses out? http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/fortune_ar…
You are a Veteran? So what was a good deal, while you were on active duty?!?!? The medical care you received, while you were on active duty? I don't know what you consider a "good deal", personally I would have loved to stay in one city, attend college, raise a family, have the mortgage paid off and my own retirement…..this is impossible in the military and not complaining. Your "good deal" is not anothers good deal, I could not give a "two week notice", some of us were forced to work around toxic chemicals.
Personally, living in "Town A USA" and being paid one third of my military pay I could have had a home paid off by now, had more retirment savings, being a lot healthier and all this WITHOUT a degree.
Wow what a great deal the Military is!!!! Not complaining, I've enjoyed my time and experiences but one would be a fool to think you have more because you were in the Military.
And one other thing once the Govt. starts doing this Lord help anyone with govt. benefits of any kind. There is a precedence to be set here. Nothing is safe, next if you have a 401K you might be phased out of Social Security.
JJ
"-Ron
The President said we ALL must sacrafice something to balance the budget–this includes the military. So after 20 years in the military, you get a check for life, where else can you get that???????? Then at age 38 you go out and work another 20 years ang get ANOTHER check. Sounds like a good deal to me that most people do not have. I am also a veteran and we all know is is a good deal, some people just want it to be a super deal. Thanks God of what you have and move on."
You said you were a veterean. What? were you a deckie on a destroyer or something? I worked HARD for 22 years and was hurt several times doing a job and deserve the retirement I get. Who are you to second guess it? Probably a pissed off no body who was not allowed to re-enlist anyway. No wonder you have the attitude you have.
You're simply an idiot. No further response is required.
What super deal?????? I put in 21 tears with the promise of free med., dental and eye care. Thay have taken most it away!!!!!!! Sacrafice???? I'v been shoot at, away from my family 3/4 of the time, and treated like a convict with no rights!!!!! ARE YOU AN "0"?? MUST BY=E, YOU CAN AFFORD THE RIP-OFF……..
Sir. I feel sorry for you. I am a totally disabled, COMBAT related retiree, Why does our government give what they promised. YES, IT IS IN MY CONTRACT 1959-1993. It is supposed to be GOVERNMENT FOR THE PEOPLE,not the politicians. Check their retirement and also check to see how many put their life on the line.
The president said we ALL must sacrafice IS HE? probably not his kids go to private schools, his family have private doctors, his pay isnt being cut, he isnt stuggling to live payday to payday. I would love to see him and all the other politicians live on a retired E-6 pay for 1 year and see how well they come out. Its a crock of crap they are giving us
tell that to the guys in va hospitals and Arlington Cemetery where ALL of us COULD have been unlike Congress. I say if they vote to go to war draft their kids then we'll see about their votes.
VOTE THESE LOSERS OUT START IN 2012. OR GIVE US THE SAME DEAL THE POLITICIANS HAVE!!! THAT INCLUDES THE 100% RETIREMENT AFTER ONE TERM!!!!!!!!!!!!
I agree with DDK. We can complain all we want, but let us face the truth. If we as a group "ie" military retirees do not vote these jerks out of office we will continue to loss every benifit we ever earned. Look back at the service stations on bases, most of us remember we did not have to pay federal tax on gas that saved us money, that is a thing of the past, look at the BX shop down town write down prices, return to the BX and compair, you will be shocked, most prices are higher on base, (what happened there) I am so ashamed of our military and our government that I promise you if i had to do my 24 years again, I am ashamed to say that I WOULD NOT DO IT. I am so sick of our congress, and senate, I again will promise I will not vote for anyone in office from my state this election, and I will try and turn every head I can to agree with me. Let us stick together.
This includes that clown from NY who posted his body all over the media and yet finally resigned; Congressman Weiner. Yes, if though he resigned he still gets 100% of retirement for life. What a deal…we military folks don't ever see this coming.
Gotta love a bunch of politicians who have great health care on site who decide that I need to pay more for the care I drive nearly an hour to get.And they wonder why so few of us trust them…
ALL MEN ARE CREATED IS THE BIGGEST JOKE. IF ALL THE CONGRESS ARE EQUAL WHY ARE WE FORCED TO PAY MORE FOR OUR HEALTH CARE AND THEY GET THE BEST FOR LIFE WITHOUT EVER HAVING TO PLACE THEIR LIFE ON THE LINE.
Obama care is the biggest joke that will be played at the expenses of this nations hard working people and tax payer.
The military in this nation is an easy target and this increase on health care is going to prove that.
As the wife of a retirde marine and the descendant of a long line of military serviceman that had died for this nation, I feel that Americas government is broken.
Dear Marg
you are 100 % correct about the Government being broke, and its mostly because this president knows nothing about the Military, He can not even come close to comprehend the term VOLUNTEER FORCE… how the military members and their families have suffered through out History,
any BOY SCOUT OF AMERICA has more KNOWLEDGE AND LOVE FOR this Country and the MILITARY than this President.
He SHOULD SPEND 3 MONTHS IN A MARINE CORPS
BOOTCAMP THEN HE CAN OPEN HIS EYES./MOUTH…
a men marg.
This increase has nothing to do with "Obama Care", it has to do with the current House committee voting for the increase. Last time I checked the President is not a part of the House
Yes but doesnt he have the power to veto and will he? Its time to clean house.
I couldnt agree with you more……
Hell – just lie to them – they've been doing that to us for years!!!!
Why don't they stop retirement for politicians after one term and increase it to twenty years like they do for the military. Are their jobs more dangerous than a military members job? Do they work harder than members of the military?
Yes! why does Congress get retirement pay after one term in office??? I would like to know the answer to that! And why do they get the health benefits that they get?? Something is wrong with our society!!! That's for sure. I wish we could fire everyone in Congress and start over from scratch. They are killing us without the silver bullet!!!
Pension after one term is an Urban Legend
See http://www.snopes.com/politics/socialsecurity/pen…
I think you are onto something! How about congressmen reaching a certain age before receiving a retirement benefit? National Guardsmen had to be 60 years of age even if they had served 20 + years before the age of 60 and I was okay with that. However, today these Guardsmen are serving on tours and have more military responsibilities than ever.
One term in office should NOT qualify them to receive full retirment benefits.
It doesn't, refer to the snopes page above.
Well now they don't want the pressure of voting on this year after year, so what are these fellows going to do about it., the same thing they did on their (congress ) pay increase they will now make it automatic each year.
Agree this is so out of control it WILL bankrupt our STILL Great Nation. Many in CA are gearing up the clipboards to demand RESOLUTION cause the lawmakers need new limits on approving their own freebeees. COLA should start only on the first day after FEDERAL Service of 20 Years minimum, and no medical freebees greater than TRICARE at current DOD rates—PERIOD!
Why should politicians get a retirement for public service at all!!!! We should not even allow for Career Politicians. The whole system is corrupted by those who are there to serve themselves first. They look for ways to obtain better the deals for themselves.
Let them pay into their own 401K/403B, IRA's, pay into Social Security and use their home and private savings to retire on. Go on Medicare and pay for Part B like everyone else.
"Members who participate in the congressional pension system are vested after only 5 years of service." Take it to 30 years of service, then enforce 2 term limits!
I second that emotion!
You've got my support, Rafael.
I agree with Katrina. After a 24-year military career where I was promised free health care and dental for my family and I, it is deplorable at best for any of the service organizations they mentioned to even back this proposed plan and increases. All I want to do after my career is get back to the country I love and fought so fervently for and enjoy the same comforts my actions and those of my counterparts paved the way for. I shouldn't have to be a watchdog and rise up to defend my promised benefits for the rest of my life. They already axed the dental and now I pay for Tricare. It's not my fault corruption has entered in to the health care system and it now costs a month's wages to see the doctor for 10 mins. To those of you on here not attuned to the military and the sacrifices made. Try being deployed repeatedly since August of 1990 right on up until I chose to hang up the uniform in 2007. There is no monetary value that can be placed on the birthdays, Christmas's and countless important times I missed in my spouse's and three children's lives. Even worse is the VA system for healthcare. All most retirees want is to be left alone and the ability to enjoy what they fought for without having their benefits eroded. Katrina is also correct in stating military service in no way compares to the civilian world. We give it all 24-7. There is no griping and complaining, you break your back for as long as it takes to accomplish the objective. 20 years or more in the military in no way compares to the civilian world. We got a mere pittance for the work we did in hopes one day we could retire and get out and get a second job to close the gap in keeping up with the Jones', finally having a nice place to call home and living the American dream. Now I have to watchdog everyone trying to get into my pocket. Just let me and my family alone and all will be well. TO THOSE OF YOU WHO NEVER GAVE AT LEAST 20 YRS… IF YOU NEVER WALKED A DAY IN SOMEONE ELSE'S SHOES THEN DON'T GET ON HERE SPOUTING OFF. WE ALL MAKE OUR OWN WAY IN THIS WORLD. TRY TO TREAD ON WHAT I'VE BEEN PROMISED AND YOU'LL GET AND EARFUL AND POSSIBLY A FEW OTHER THINGS EVERY TIME. LET MY BENEFITS AND MY CHECKBOOK ALONE.
YOU ARE SO RIGHT. I DID 25 YEARS IN THE NAVY….VIETNAM..AND HAVE SEEN EVERYTHING GOING OUT THE DOOR. BEST HEALTHCARE MY WIFE AND I HAVE HAD WAS AT VANDERBURG AIR FORCE BASE IN THE 90'S. THE CIVILIAN DOCTORS ONLY WANT TO GET THEIR $135.00 OFFICE CALL MONEY AND POSSIBLY GIVE YOU 10 MINUTES OF THEIR TIME. I WISH I COULD FIND A JOB LIKE THAT….
LETS HOPE SOMEONE IN WASHINGTON WILL STEP UP AND TAKE CHARGE… AT ONE TIME I HAD HIGH HOPES FOR McCAIN, WHAT A LET DOWN. BUT AGAIN HE HAS MEDICAL FOR LIFE. CAN'T COUNT OF GENERALS, ADMIRALS AND THE LIKES, THEY HAVE NOTHING TO LOOSE.
Definately agree with every point made. Also, I would like to add that this is so unfortunate as the military community can not be strong enough to vote these folks out of office. The members of Congress (House and Senate) continue to be reelected to these positions; we talk greatly about how they don't support, but when election time comes…they are elected back into their position. Collectively, something has to happen to make this change…and its certainly not the current administration.
Do you know who the losers are? Do you know who sits on the Committee?
And one of them is Patty Murray!!
I noticed that in this article they mention veteran and retirement groups concedeing to this increase. Anyone know which groups? This sort of B.S. Is just that, B.S. Military or not, send this article around to others naming those on the committee and others who support this outrage. We can single out and recall their biggest supporter and send a message to Washington that our military has already paid the price. NO MORE!
I'm guessing here, so don't quote me without researching this, but I think the agreement came from your Washington, DC VFW heads. Ask Col. (now Rep.) Allen West about them. They helped the administration campaign against him when he was running for Congress in FL. These people are liberal as hell and they are being paid a fortune to run your national VFW.
Does anyone know if the hike also affects disabled vets still in working age catagory but who can't work or who are so limited, they have not been able to find work they can do?
I fall in this catagory but was extremely lucky to find a job I can still physically perform in.
We should not worry by who will be affected and who will not, we must stand together to see to it that it don't effect any of us. We have a voice and a vote and we need to start using both.
I think since it already passed, we need to know who's affected. I have no issue with my rate going up. I have issue with a 100% disabled person who can't work getting a hike in fees because they are say, 45 years old.
If you get Social Security Disability, after one year you are eligible for Medicare and Tricare For Life and the increase will not affect you. If you just get Veterans Disability you will be affected.
But won't it affect what your family pays?
Veterans we complain, we protest, we write our representatives and congressmen but it all fall on deaf ears! They listen during election years but then forget about us until next election year. We need to stop all this talking and writing and start "ACTION Against Politicians and lobbyist" we need to kick the politicians out and those that lobby only for their good and not for us lower ranking retirees. Let us band together and organize our retirees groups to show these politicians we have a large enough voice and we can make a difference. Let us band together "NOW" to affect our future and the future of those that come after us!!!!! NOE! NOW! Stop talking and start banding together to make a difference – NOW!!!
That can be done, but we need a starting point, a place to gather membership and a whole lot of things not thought of to gather that type of support. To start holding our elect accountable.
That's because 99.5% or more have never served in the military. When I served 57/76 you could find some that have served.
I'm the wife of a retired Marine. I say, let's do it! Get us together and let's kick them all out! Make this nation what it it supposed to be…a nation FOR the people and BY the people!!
I agree I really agree, I really really agree! Now what and how and where? I am ready to DO SOMETHING. Willing to stand and act. Lets do it…
will Be looking for your reply here. How many others have said likewise?
You who asked, here are the members of the House Committee. Start writing letters!!!
Members of the Committee
The House Armed Services Committee will be led by Rep. Buck McKeon (R-Calif.) with Rep. Adam Smith (D-Wash.) serving as the Ranking Member.
Republicans
California Howard P. “Buck” McKeon, Chairman, California Visit Site
Maryland Roscoe G. Bartlett, Maryland Visit Site
Texas Mac Thornberry, Vice Chairman, Texas Visit Site
North Carolina Walter B. Jones, North Carolina Visit Site
Missouri W. Todd Akin, Missouri Visit Site
Virginia J. Randy Forbes, Virginia Visit Site
Florida Jeff Miller, Florida Visit Site
South Carolina Joe Wilson, South Carolina Visit Site
New Jersey Frank A. LoBiondo, New Jersey Visit Site
Ohio Michael Turner, Ohio Visit Site
Minnesota John Kline, Minnesota Visit Site
Alabama Mike Rogers, Alabama Visit Site
Arizona Trent Franks, Arizona Visit Site
Pennsylvania Bill Shuster, Pennsylvania Visit Site
Texas K. Michael Conaway, Texas Visit Site
Colorado Doug Lamborn, Colorado Visit Site
Virginia Rob Wittman, Virginia Visit Site
California Duncan Hunter, California Visit Site
Louisiana John C. Fleming, Louisiana Visit Site
Colorado Mike Coffman, Colorado Visit Site
Florida Thomas J. Rooney, Florida Visit Site
Pennsylvania Todd Russell Platts, Pennsylvania Visit Site
Scott Rigell, Virginia Visit Site
Chris Gibson, New York Visit Site
Vicky Hartzler, Missouri Visit Site
Joe Heck, Nevada Visit Site
Bobby Schilling, Illinois Visit Site
Jon Runyan , New Jersey Visit Site
Austin Scott , Georgia Visit Site
Tim Griffin , Arkansas Visit Site
Steve Palazzo , Mississippi Visit Site
Florida Allen West , Florida Visit Site
Alabama Martha Roby , Alabama Visit Site
Mo Brooks , Alabama Visit Site
Todd Young , Indiana Visit Site
Democrats
Washington Adam Smith, Ranking Member, Washington Visit Site
Texas Silvestre Reyes, Texas Visit Site
California Loretta Sanchez, California Visit Site
North Carolina Mike McIntyre, North Carolina Visit Site
Pennsylvania Robert A. Brady, Pennsylvania Visit Site
Rob Andrews, New Jersey Visit Site
California Susan A. Davis, California Visit Site
Rhode Island James R. Langevin, Rhode Island Visit Site
Washington Rick Larsen, Washington Visit Site
Tennessee Jim Cooper, Tennessee Visit Site
Guam Madeleine Z. Bordallo, Guam Visit Site
Connecticut Joe Courtney, Connecticut Visit Site
Iowa David Loebsack, Iowa Visit Site
Arizona Gabrielle Giffords, Arizona Visit Site
Massachusetts Niki Tsongas, Massachusetts Visit Site
Maine Chellie Pingree, Maine Visit Site
North Carolina Larry Kissell, North Carolina Visit Site
New Mexico Martin Heinrich, New Mexico Visit Site
New York William L. Owens, New York Visit Site
California John Garamendi, California Visit Site
Pennsylvania Mark Critz, Pennsylvania Visit Site
Tim Ryan , Ohio Visit Site
C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger , Maryland Visit Site
Georgia Hank Johnson, Georgia Visit Site
Kathy Castor , Florida Visit Site
Betty Sutton , Ohio Visit Site
Colleen Hanabusa , Hawaii Visit Site
Thanks Doc Dug, this info could be the start a better form of accountability if we use it right. Together we stand, divided we fall.
What is needed is to educate the current active duty military that their flag waving bosses will likewise screw them once they reitre. It's the pattern of Republican and Democratic politicians. Get the active duty men and women in uniform, and their families, to aggressively complain to congress about this latest American screw job.
They say they will tie this to yearly COLA. Which one? If this is true, those who retired under REDUX are going to take a screwing!!! The increase in premiums every year will like eat up all of the COLA.
You will have to write them letters, almost all members of congress don't take e-mails from people outside their state or district. Even the speakers and the commitee chairs, which is ridiculous. If every vet wrote even monthly and voted them out when they didn't listen, this would get fixed!
I guess this is what the public means when they say how they support our troops.; Real support is more than waving flags at parades. Real support means honoring the Nations' ccommitment to its veterans. Shame on President Obama, Secretary Gates and all the lying hypolcrites who proclaim their support for our troops while they target our health care benefits..
I agree with you a hundred perc ent, we need to start a veterans voice to the country on what this President is doing. Gone 2012. I will call my congressman. And give them my 2 cents, I guess we all served so they can sit on their liberal Asses and take our Money.
No More Joe DaGama Retired SFC
They lied to us when we joined and we when we reenlisted. Do you expect to be treated any other way. I took an oath to defend the constitution but I didn"t take an oath to back a bunch of silly — political people. They get full benifits for life itsw tine that all americans stand up and say no more we have had enough to PRESIDENT OBAMA THANK YOU FOR TREATING YOUR COMRADES SO WELL. YOU ARE OUR COMMANDER AND CHIEF YOU SHOULD BE STANDING UP FOR US ACTIVE OR RETIRED. YOU ARE NOT JUST THE COMMANDER PART TIME WHEN YOU NEED US TO RISK OUR LIVES BUT IN PEACE TIME TOO. TAKE A LOOK AT MY RETIRED PAYMENT AND SEE HOW I CAN SURVIVE WITH RENT ELECTRICTY AND REST NOW WHEN COMES TO MY HEALTH YOU WANT TO TAKE THAT AWAY. ITS EITHER HESLTH CARE OR FOOD WHAT A F—— CHOISE THANKS AGAIN COMMANDER AND CHIEF OBAMA. PS NEXT TIME YOU NEED TO KILL SOMEONE SEND IN THE CONGRESS MAN OR SEANTORS THEY GET BETTER HEALTH THAN WE DO…………………
Man, if they told you that you would be getting "free health care" for life, they did lie to you. When I signed up for the Army in 75 they didn't tell us that. They told told us we would get health care, they didn't say nothing about it being free. Now they did tell us we would get free dental, all that changed in the 80's with the Graham/Ruddman act.
I guess we are screwed again. Free health care for life when I joined in'68, now not so fast …. What it really boils down to is that we military retirees have the nerve to keep on living after we retire!
You die for this country and they honor you – just don't live for this country or they penalize you.
Ron
are you one of the maggots that conceded to this increase?,
how can you say that its ok to put up with the increase?
most of us that retire after 20 or more are not 38, we are hurt, bad legs, back from all those yeasrthis administration has no idea of the LIFE WE HAD TO ENDURE, our FAMILIES suffered, most retiries are broke, in debt, what planet did you retire from? are you a single making 3 times my retirement?
I pay for 4 dependents on medical, dental, vision, i did 22 years mostly because of the FREE BENEFITS………what do you pay for?
GySgt…right on….this ron guy, diffently has not walked a day in our shoes or our family's. probably couldn't last a year…but has no problem backing something he has no idea about. Again probably has everything on a silver platter, not in combat ration format ( loved the bean's and weenee's),
figures, can't even get a word in.
First lesson my dad taught me is that "Life's not fair." Choose to do what you do because you believe in it, not for what you expect to get out of it from someone else. The fact is resources are limited, and things are changed to try and meet the needs. While it may not be "acceptable" it certainly is better than nothing. And yep I'm still "young and naive" surrounded by active duty soldiers who plan on working after they retire despite chronic pain, shrapnel that can't be removed, prosthetic legs, and a mess of other "conditions"… No exaggeration these guys still serve in combat fake leg and all. Maybe I'm just lucky to know such stubborn folks who believe in what they do, and rely on investments to supplant their military pensions and medical. And no they aren't all officers.
You are the first person in this long list of whiners I agree with. I am 23 yrs retired military, ten enlisted, thirteen as a CWO. I have two combat tours been wounded twice missing most of my left thigh shatered bones throughout my body and 100% VA disabled. I spent another 23 years working cival service and most of my friends were in the same condition. The folks you are talking about are not stubborn they are dedicated to a cause they realize is larger then themselves. You are absolutely not naive you are a young patriot surounded by other patriots willing to make all sacrifices required to make this a better place. Good for You
Agree–Bless you SisterJ Soc, a retiree still can contribute by active and involved democracy. Hard Work every step every day is still the best plan. And it ncludes teaming to get it right.
they should not take a single penny from us until they stop giving all the illegal aliens a free ride. They don't have to pay a plug nickel for any health care, dental care, vision care, nothing nothing nothing… I'm sick and tired of being below a second class citizen.
Couldn't agreewith yhou more.
agreed, I just made a comment about this but it does not stop with illegals. You know our own people can have a child and with they say they do not know whom the father is they get benefits. Nobody is hating on them but damn where is personal responsibility at!?!?!?!?!?!?!
Illegals at the WIC office….now we are in SC you wouldn't think many but they (the office) have people to speak spanish and give them separate classes………..SSA Office enroll and get EBT, FI and what you like, no SS Card needed, actually they have noticies on the wall saying we cannot ask for SSN's.
It's has turned into a sad sad world. Oh my retirement cancels us from state benefits but an illegal or the other legal idiot on pubilc assistance can keep getting more and more and work under the table………
Welcome to SCREWMERICA.
Military retirement pay should not be counted when disabled vets on SSDI are requesting state aid, food stamps, etc. Not when you go in & stand behind people who don't speak English & you know are not citizens. What a kick in the face when disabled vets families can't pay their bills & have a lower standard of living than the illegals. & have you seen some of the cars they drive?
JUst let me know and I will fly out there.
I believe that retirees across this nation needs to have a formation out in front of the House, Senate, and White House. The sooner we stand up to them the better things will get; otherwise, we are going to continue sitting back and letting them take until there's nothing left to take from us. How about an early morning formation to greeting them coming to work to take away our benefits. We need to have a big formation in Washington, DC. I'm ready to go, what about the rest of you all out there?
I agree, whole heartedly!! Although I pray there are not alot more "Veterans" out there that spout Ron's illconcieved perceptions.
Are you sending all of the comments to the Senate Armed Forces Committee?—
Well hopefully some of these veteran advocacy groups will grow some BALLS. I do not want to hear it's only this percent or that percent. You have these morons that supposed to represent the people and because it does not affect them they do not give a damn! These damn morons give money to ILLEGALs… SSA is not allowed to ask for a SSN when they go for money. Everyone of you Reps wipe your butt with you hand and go to work to make changes to help the USA, you remember that the USA. Not for some damn vote by someone who isn't even in the country legally.
FU
Here we go again anthor screw job by our elected leaders, I would like to know if there medical is going up. Not one of of those senators or congressmen shoud get a darn thing. They are driving this country into the ground. I do not blame anybody for not sticking around in the military any more.
lol dude you have to be serious!
Hi everyone: I did vote for Obama in the past election and just read the news of TRICARE increases. So I went to the White House website and asked them to delete my email address from their records and also mentioned that I would not be voting for Obama in the future. I was born in Scotland, married a service member and worked for the Federal Government at Misawa Air Base, Japan. Although I have always revered our military members it was only by working alongside you that I learned how hard you do all work to keep us safe. Thanks everyone.
Jim, You sound like one of those REMF that sat it out in the rear and the only time you got up off your fat arse was to get another cup of coffee and a donut. Oh, I forgot you had to do quals once a year (or did you do the pencil quals). I had to put up with your kind more than once when I need something, field uniform, boot, or even food. I was told to wait. I spent the first fifteen years of my marriage, my anniversaries, in the field.
well as always in life some will troll and hate! Just let them slowly die, it's probably a police officer who could not enlist in the military. I have two of them that live next to me.
Living here in east TX. we must drive to Shreveport LA. for our tricare medical treatment. A round trip gas tab runs around $50-$60 bucks, plus a raise in our premiums. Its gonna be tough.
This is bull dookie!!!! Sooooooo tired of lie after lie after lie after lie!!!!!! Most of the fools on "the hill" haven't served and are simply enjoying the life they are able to have BECAUSE of my husband and others like him. Selfish bastards and bitches……
I can't believe that a retiree who spend 20 or more years in any of our four services has not done enough to get medical free for live. At some point while in service for our country each military individual who has served for more than 20 years has sacrificed his or her life five(5) times for every civilian who decided that protecting thier country wasn't important enough, most of these folks have seats in some committe in Washington, to include congress. If sacrificing your life is not worth the paper on which you made that commitment, than what is. Again Lies, Lies, and more Lies. I strongly aggree with my retired services members. We were promised one thing and now we are getting another. What a great deal.
Of course they are going to raise our premiums, out of pocket expenses, and take away the free medical care and other benefits that they promised us for our 20 plus years of sacrifice. Our elected leaders are not going allow their FREE RIDE status to be endangered. They are going to bleed us and make up any justifiable lie they can to convince us that this is the right move to make for this country. The actual truth is that its for their own preservation. They stand on their podium and praise the military for their service, sacrifice, dedication and make a big speech on supporting the countries military. A lot of words that have no true meaning, being that these speeches were actually written for them by someone else to make them sound and look good if front of the public.
Where is the support for the military that they talk about??? Their actions do not reflect the words that they tell us. When they need us to stick our necks out and catch bullets for God and Country to volunteer into military service in time of war, they give us a lot of promises and incentives. But when its all over it is slowly taken away. Or they drag their feet for many years until the majority die off so it will not be so big of a financial burden. We need to send our political leaders back to school to learn again the meaning of For The People By The People. Our Government is falling into corruption. And as long as they can make it sound politically correct they will continue to get away with it regardless who is elected in any office. When the people elect their officials into office it is about the person you feel lied the most or the least. There are no good candidates anymore willing to run for office. It is no longer for the people. Its for themselves, prestige, power, money, the benefits of office, the perks and to get their names to live forever in the history books, etc. They want to blame the big corporate entities for the state of the world economy, and then put a couple of them in jail to make it look like they did something. The bottom line is they knew what was going on and just let it happen. Why did they not do something about it??? Because they were making profit on it themselves. Its up to the people of this country to force a change and to stop sitting back in our comfy chair and let them pacify us with smooth talk that comes from the pen of a speech writer.
How nice give me a raise then charge me more for my FREE MEDICAL FOR LIFE. Yet they will give themselves a pay raise, tell us all to sacrafice, keep me unemployed for years then tell me I need to do more.
I agree. I'm the wife of a 27 year Veteran. He served 6 years in the Navy doing 3 tours in Viet Nam. He did 21 years in the National Guard doing 6 months in the Persian Gulf War and was activated the second time, but ended up spending 7 months at Fort Sill, Oklahoma instead. His retired pay was less than $600 a month! And when he passed in Feb. or 2009, I got 55% or that a month. SAD!!! I think our 'wonderful' congress should get their pay reduced too. This all makes no sense.
Having served over 20 years and now in my 80s I have enjoyed tricare for life and feel it is an entitlement which was due upon serving homnorably for specific years. Now a draft doging possible non citizen wants to slash our rights as we have grown to expect//. Whats next?
Sir, you or the rest of the military retirees shouldn't have to pay for Tricare For Life- Medicare Part B- either for themselves or their spouses, in order to continue having Tricare pay the cost share to our medical bills. Military retirees shouldn't be forced into Medicare PERIOD!!!
OK, I know the House Armed Services Committee who just agreed to these Tricare Rate Hikes are dominated by Republicans and it was two Republicans in this article who said there needs to be Rate Hikes to Tricare,. Republican Howard P. "Buck" McKeon, Texas and Republican Mac Thornberry, Ca. When Tom Philpott said this came from the Obama Administration, did he mean Bob Gates of DOD called for the Hike or President Obama? I know Obama said Health Care Reform would not affect Tricare??????????????
OK, I know the House Armed Services Committee who just agreed to these Tricare Rate Hikes are dominated by Republicans and it was two Republicans in this article who said there needs to be Rate Hikes to Tricare,. When Tom Philpott said this came from the Obama Administration, did he mean Bob Gates of DOD called for the Hike or President Obama? I know Obama said Health Care Reform would not affect Tricare??????????????
This is Just the House Armed Services Committie. Republicans won the House in 2010. This is not Law yet. I am pretty sure Obama has to sign it or not sign it before it Becomes Law.
Republican Howard P. "Buck" McKeon, Texas Is the Chair and
Republican Mac Thornberry, Ca. is the Vice Chair of this House Armed Services Committie that called for these hikes to Tricare!
This isn't over yet, not until President Obama signs it into Law or doesn't sign it into Law…
Someone correct me if I am wrong.
You are correct.
What is the world is wrong with "you" people???????????? Most of the replies refer to voting the bastards out and getting new ones–what does that prove? The point that everyone is missing is that "they" are in charge–end of story. This is the way it has been since the beginning of time and it will not change. Bitch all you want if it makes you feel beter but the raw truth is nothing will change. Some will be better at first than others but after a while, they all just get GREEDY and look out for themselves. Greed is the primary problem in this country, the haves and the have nots. Greed gets more people in trouble that anyting else, even sex. I have no answers to fix our problems, I have seen it all to many times to care anymore. We have a President who got elected on nothing but BS, if he can do it, anyone can. Good luck with the next election.
Unfortunately Ron most of what you say is true. However, look at the Middle East. Even the most oppressive regimes have to face the music from time-to-time. It seems the over-populated urban mega-city-states are trying to impose their heavily controlled policies on those of us who want to be free. This usually leads to revolution.
This is why they try so hard to disarm us. Look how long the Swiss have lived peacefully – They are all required to be armed. But that's another, though related, issue.
It is shameful that our Government pats ther military on the back when it is protecting their sorry tail…but when the fighting is over (retirees) well lets just soak it to them…if we don't we may loose our free medical care, free car use, free gasoline, free housing allowance, free pay raises yearly, free plane rides to and from district, etc, etc, etc, .. and we cannot afford to give up any of this! That is the main reason I tell everyone I can to join the military if they desire for the bonuses and college credits, but make it a career!!! Congress will screw you!!!
Yep! My son is the first male in our family, as far back as the tree is traceable, who was not in the military. Seeing the treatment of family members after retirement, I didn't push it.
Remember what Julies Ceasar did, March the troops to the gates of Rome, and took over.
I don't, and I don't care, I wasn't born back then, and if you are posting here, neither were you.
I am all for the recall of these Woodstock generation so called "leaders" Veterans votes are big in numbers right now
Coming in on a commercial flight in uniform into California after Vietnam, I was spit on and cursed. I guess those folks got elected. 2012 could be a good year to start fresh, but there are no military men or women on the ballot.
If universal military training (UMT) is not implemented, we may never see anyone with military experience in office. The disgust that most of us feel toward "elected" office by the time we get out insures that we stay as far from it as possible.
The proposed increases may not sound like much, but to the enlisted retiree, its an instant 13% of the already 25% which is TAXED BTW (and this is at MSG pay!!) that they (we) are paying…so WITHOUT CO-PAYS and other fees, thats post tax 40% of the 'golden great deal retirement check'… If you are lower enlisted, to include medically retired wounded warriors, it takes most or all of it…so there is NO "great deal" here…
Then with the proposals on the plate, on top of the 40%, a 6% or an increase EQUAL TO THE COLA ADJUSTMENT on top of all the increases…great deal?
Most people that have not served think that dental and co-pays and other fees do not exist..WRONG…great deal?
served so we can pay for our care…no retirement check…..for some in the future, it may lead to come to out of pocket above and beyond their 'retirement check' …
sound like a great deal now?
This is nothing new, it's is still being blamed on the party in the White House, just like it was in the 70's and 80's, this will always be blamed on DoD, when in fact, the blame should fall on the House of Reps, they are the ones in control of the money, not the WH. If they thought it would be a problem they could have stopped it, hell, they tried to stop everything else. The bottom line is this, it takes a lot of money to run a nations as big as ours, I can understand that, and I also know the money have to come from somewhere, either you raise taxes or you raise fees, they did the latter of the two, as a vet I don't have a problem with that. My medical care is still a lot cheaper than it's civilian counterpart, when I see civilians paying $300.00 a pay period, thats every two weeks, and one week for some, hell I figure I'am in damn good shape. It's not about politics, we all have to do our part, so quit your bitching and do it.
They could cut aid to illegals. They know who they are when they open their mouths. They could stop educating illegals, taking away valuable resources not only for military retiree kids, but for disabled vets' kids, as well as other American citizens kids. In my school district illegals don't even have to have SS numbers, but my kids do! They could cut foreign aid. The billions saved there would take care of military retirees & disabled vets at the VA. Check the websites to see how much money is spent in foreign aid to countries like Pakistan, Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, & many more countries that hate us. The aid is for reasons like, "Not attacking Israel" & "Drug Abatement". (How's that working out?) Most of the countries are not developing countries, & I bet that many of the leaders of developing countries receiving aid, are pocketing the money in secret bank accounts enriching themselves & not their countrymen. Writing to our congress people, either form letter or penned by our own hand,does no good. E-mailing the congress people does no good. Obviously, military service organizations do no good. The travesty of foreign aid before taking care of military retirees, disabled vets & their families, is not in the news. Americans not familiar with military issues have no idea how retirees & vets are treated, maybe the once & a while story in the news, but no body cares enough to pursue getting the benefits re-established for the military retirees & vets.
I think you have a state problem, I find strange how many people can't seem to tell the difference between State Government and Federal Government. If illegals are being allow to do those things in your State, county or parish(depending what state you are from), that is authorized by the county /parish board of education, we don't have a "federal board of Education", But the Federal Government do give money to state to subsidize the cost of education. As for all that other stuff, I really can't comment on that, it's obvious that you know something that we don't. If you have a problem with your elected Representative or Senator, vote them out of office.
I agree the government should not be allowed to make a promise to service members, sign a contract with us and then simply walk away from it.
I think we as retirees have a legitamate case of breach of contract and it’s worth pursuing.
I say veterans and all Americans should insist on a referendum to stop Senators and Congressmen from giving themselves raises as well as retirement pay for life after one term. We the people should decide these matters not the foxes guarding the hen house.
I live in Colorado and Lamborn is in my area….what a joke….What COLA ??? The POTUS is not the house of representatives….pointy headed bigots need to get it right……I have limited time left, so thanks, my nation, I gave you 30 years plus and you gave me disrespect and lies, not to mention some really ugly names…but then, what else is new ???
Well here we are again another way to get back from the retired member and family. Just like the days on active duty. Get a pay raise and raise all the prices in clothing sales,commisary and PX there went the raise plus some. Now you want to give us a COLA raise on of thease years to take it back for TRI CARE. I say it is time to find another medical provider and get reed of TRI CARE, DELTA DENTAL star going back to the BASE Hospitial for all are care. Of course all of us are not blessed to have a base in our back yard like the white house and Congress. My fellow retired men and ladies the sad part is we are ask on this web sight to comment on this stuff and know one cares but us. They if at all read our blogs and either laugh or call us a bunch of cry babbies. I for one read your blogs and say thanks for your support.
Seal Team Six now has to worry about family members being targeted. Even so, i bet that all of them would do all again. Hey, i know what a grateful nation can do! Charge them more for health care! Atta' boy America!
Well, isn't that just special. In 1975, when they told everyone that they were GUARANTEED health coverage for LIFE, with NO cost, now they renig their promise, and not only do we have to pay for 'INSURANCE', and co-pays, but they are going to take more money out of our pockets for the privelege of having access to physicians. This is a shameful theft of a benefit, and a lousy way for the government to "balance the budget". I say, let's stop bailing out every little country in the world, and start taking care of Americans. Thumbs down to all of you pompus asses.
Ron & Big Dog, you just don't get it. From the time we entered service we were promised free health care for life, those like me who entered in the 70's. They broke that promise even though I kept my side of the bargain.
Yes, Pres Obama said we ALL must sacrifice something, so exactly what sacrifice is it that Pres Obama and all the elected officials are doing? Are they enduring a modest increase to their free health care, if so I'll sign on for the same increase, after all a 10% increase of 0 is still 0. Don't tell me we must all sacrifice when you're (Politicians) the ones who put us in this predicament and then you get all perks after one term and sacrifice nothing.
I did my 24 years, and you know what I got for it? A wife who cheated on me and my three children during my last deployment before I retired, who decided she wanted a divorce the day after my retirement. Yeah, life sucks but to add insult to injury our elected politicians had another great idea some years back; The Soldier Sailors Act. This says for my ex- wife's loyal service she will get 50% of my retirement pay for life, and if she dies and I am still living that 50% goes to whoever she wills it too, even her new husband, the one she was having the affair with.
So Ron & Big Dog, it's not about us ALL sacrificing something; we, as vets and retirees, have already sacrificed with long and numerous deployments, debilitating injuries, destroyed marriages, haunting memories, etc…. Yes, some more than others, but all kept our promise to this nation and sacrificed for this nation. To those on the outside this looks like a great deal, but to us who lived and sacrificed for our nation we know it's another unfulfilled promise. So, excuse me if I'm not standing in line anxiously willing to SACRAFICE something.
Our pay raise were frozen. But everything else keeps going up. How am I suppose to provide for my family as a retiree and Govn't worker when you are letting the rent go up w/o control, gas , food ect? Thanks God I manage my money tightly to make it becuase I will not get bailed out if I go under. Law makers cannot comprehend what it is like to work and support a family if the changes they make does not affect them.
I totally agree with you.
I would hope that some of us appreciate that we have an excellent medical program bestowed on us and stop complaining. So some may pay a bit more. That is not a trajedy like what if they removed tricare for life entirely. Since neither Republicans or Democrats can control the excessive spending habits of our government we are left to wonder what will happen in the next 10 20 years to our country's financial picture.
Yes, ****. Tri-Care can be good, if you can find a physician who will accept it. I recently had an MRI which revealed a herniated disk in my neck. When I needed a neurosurgeon, I had to travel 95 miles to find one who would accept Tri-Care. The one my PCP wanted to send to me (only 30 miles away) is a graduate of the US Naval Academy and did his residency at Bethesda, would not even accept Tri-Care. I am thankful I have Tri-Care, but having to travel farther and pay an increase is not what was promised.
I will stop complaining when the honor of those running my contry matches that expected of those defending it ! I don't think One GI ever voted to send foreign aid to China while cutting spending on active duty and retirees, but then maybe you did, I don't know.
How about term limits on the senate. These guys (and gals) need a dose of reality, they should have to pay and play by the same rules as the rest of us. Take away their medical coverage and then see how fast things change. And while we are at it. How about a 40 hour work week with two weeks off per year and no maternaty leave?
Mike, is that an order or a request? You need to remember who you are dealing with…I’m retired enlisted and yes we relied on you to do your job, and since you feel inclined to remind me where I stand get off your ass and do your “O” thing. Remember O’s bitch up not down!
Raising the rates is total disrespect to the retired force.The worst part is a former military person by the name of Gates is supporting it. I joined more than 30 years ago with the promise that the government would pay in full for medical coverage.We HAVE FAR TOO PEOPLE IN CONGRESS THAT HAVE NOT BEEN IN THE MILITARY.AS AN ENLISTED P.ERSON I LIVED FROM PAYCHECK TOPAYCHEK FOR OVER 20 YEARS EXPECTING TO AT LEAST TO HAVE MY MEDICAL BENEFITS.Now they are gradually taking that away also.I am not as fortunate as my civilian peers that have there house paid for a nice nest egg in there 401k plans.We should not be compared to the civilian sector.
AMEN – KNOW THIS VERY WELL. THERE WAS NO INCOME LIMITS WHEN I WAS SENT TO VIETMAN. WHY DON'T VETS VOTE FOR RETIREMENTS LIKE MOST STATES HAVE.
Why should your Grandaughter be excempt from having to pay? name a generation who didnt have to pay for the next? It is the way of life in this country always has been always will be. We need to cut off all the billions of aide that we give to foreign countries. just Google Us Aide to foreign countries and you will be sickend as well as understand why we have a defecit. We must also pay attention to lessons of the past. The Bill Clinton administration was the first to balance the budget in our country in 50 years. We need to gather those lessons learned and repeat them. If balancing the budget is really that important. I dont think it is. lets close some of these overseas military bases. I mean why do we still need bases in Germany, Spain or Italy what a enormous waste of money.
OK Mr Congressional Representative – you are raising our out-of-pocket costs – how much are you raising your out-of-pocket costs? Haven't heard a word about your federal health benefits and you certainly make more than I will ever see. If you dump an increase on the men and women of the Armed Forces, as well as their families, the people who stand in harms way on your behalf, then you should also have an increase – the taxpayer dumped 15 billion in health coverage on you in 2009 and you can't even compare the "risks" you take to what you demand of the American serviceman or woman. Oh, but I forgot – you have the power and he money and them that has the power makes the rules.
I, as the widow of a B-52 pilot who served 23 years, can tell you all that you are right! We have to get out our votes in 2012……..VOTE! VOTE! VOTE and VOTE. They are being other than truthful when they say that most of Veteran's groups, etc. approved of their actions. I know that MOAA did not approve and urged all the members to write to their congressmen and Senators telling them so. Seems that did no good either.
As always we are the expendables and the throw away assets that the US Govt. and the present administration can use and abuse at will. The reality of it all is that the increases are a done deal, whether we like it or not. We can write to our representatives until we are blue, but it's not going to change a thing. We have to take a positive approach to these issues and use the system against itself. We must embarrass them on a national level, show the American people and the world how this country truly treats it's veterans and it's military retirees of so called "working retiree age". A million man/women march on Washington DC, with our walking wounded, our disabled, our homeless, and our needy Vets, would show the American people and the world just that. We must cross the modern day Rubicon known as the Potomac and enter the Rome known as the Capital.
If you do not act, then you are part of the problem, if you do, then you are part of the solution. Nothing comes free, not freedom and not the right to be heard and seen to fight for our rights that we were promised. Let the SHADOW WARRIORS come out of the shadows and into the light.
What did you expect, a life time of benefits? all of us signed the papers and raised our right hands, saying this we are all prisoners of a system that is delegated by those in charge, congress, senate and the president and when they decide to change things, all we can do is complain and write our reps.
and writing gets you a form letter saying we agree and then nothing is done. However I have not been denied any benefits from the V.A, because of the money I make, if you have a disability they take care of you. except dental then you are on your own.
Served in WWII and Korean War. Sorry, but the VA does not compensate for Malaria. Tried for many years to get it and in 2008 was told no compensation. These Congressmen and Senators can have a meeting at 2 AM and vote themselves a pay raise. During WWII and Korea we were told we would get healthcare for life — if– we lived to retire. I did get it at a military faciliy locatedd 45 miles from my home one way. Then came Tri-Care for Life with a $5.00 co-payfor doctors and $25.00 for ER. In order to have this benefit as it is today I must be on Social Security and a military retiree. In 1943/44 there were c;ose to 15 million in our Armed Forces worldwide. WWII vets are dying at a rate of 1,000 or more per day. The Congress waited till our numbers were in the neighboorhood of 3 million alive before giving us Tri-Care. I ,and my wife , are like so many other enlisted retirees are living from pay check to paycheck. There are other things the DOD can do other than raising the costs on the retired population and active duty personnell for health care.
As always we are the expendables and the throw away assets that the US Govt. and the present administration can use and abuse at will. The reality of it all is that the increases are a done deal, whether we like it or not. We can write to our representatives until we are blue, but it's not going to change a thing. We have to take a positive approach to these issues and use the system against itself. We must embarrass them on a national level, show the American people and the world how this country truly treats it's veterans and it's military retirees of so called "working retiree age". A million man/women march on Washington DC, with our walking wounded, our disabled, our homeless, and our needy Vets, would show the American people and the world just that. We must cross the modern day Rubicon known as the Potomac and enter the Rome known as the Capital.
next will be retirement pay
over the years how they have cut military retirement,did they take a retirement cut,hell no they just took more retirement
do they care hell no,all they can to is talk about our military how great job we are doing that's our goverment,they do not support us,we put our lives on the line,nothing in return
but a congress man or woman has the best retirement what's wrong with this
military needs to wake up and vote out ones that are doing harm to our soldiers and retire's
They freeze our pay,take more out in taxes reducing our take home pay. Now with food,gas and everything else going up in price they want to charge more for Tri Care. They say only for working age retirees, Have they looked for a job in thier late 50′s early 60′s most employers toss the applacation in the trash with out reading past the age. Plus your civilian employment shouldn’t affect your military retirement. We need to stand together and demand law makers find other ways to reduce spending not at military retirees expence. The military vetrans didn’t cause this financial mess,maybe the ones that did should pay for it.They make way to much money as it is. Maybe they should change the pay scale for congress. The first four years the get the same pay as a E-5 service member the second four years as an E-6 and one pay grade each four years after. And no retirement till after 20years.
The real problem is – as we just found out – that just like in the Grisham movie/novel “the Rainmaker”, Tricare denies a lot of claims now for follow-on care (phy therapy, etc) that “they” don’t deem medically necessary. Their contract folks aren’t qualified to practice-so they become reviewers.
And the Tricare “entitlement” dogma is now what our President is trying to spread to civilian healthcare companies….we have not yet begun to see the healthcare erosion that we will. Stay healthy- it is our only hope.
Here we go again, stick it to the veterans/retirees, what a crock.
While it is true that our premiums are very low in comparison to civilians (which are shamefully high), this increase sets a precedent that effects everyone who depends on Tricare. Not all of us are fully employed in this economy, and every dime in my case has to be managed. Be thankful you have co-workers. I don't. I've been unemployed for 2 years.
The American politician has placed himself above the people who sent him to serve the “greater good.” They now cater to the rich and powerful – the special interests that line their own pockets. They have become a socio-economic class standing on the backs of the rest of us – never giving us a second thought until it is time to campaign for reelection. Then they assume that we will just accept everything at their word – that they did it all for America's good.
We do have an avenue of change – yes, I know for many, “change” is a dirty word – but this is change spurred of, by, and for us – the American people. We need Constitutional Amendments to rein in the run-away power trip of the Congress. My particular focuses are an amendment mandating term limits, an amendment prohibiting Congress from making law and policy that excludes members of Congress, an amendment allowing states to recall their representatives and fire them, and an amendment mandating timely budget submission including fiscal penalties if they fail (With a government closure, Congress and the President gets paid while the fighting men and women of our military do not? Not on this military wife’s watch!).
Article V of the Constitution outlines the amendment process by two paths. One we all know well – a bill passes both houses of the legislature by a two thirds majority, then it goes on to the states. Now most reasonable people will agree – Congress will never push any sort of amendment that limits their powers – but we don’t need the Congress to initiate the process. Under Article V, “the second method prescribed is for a Constitutional Convention to be called by two-thirds of the legislatures of the States, and for that Convention to propose one or more amendments. These amendments are then sent to the states to be approved by three-fourths of the legislatures or conventions.” This method has never been used before, but then we have never dealt with a Congress that has placed themselves so high above their People in the name of Party, or personal, politics.
The Constitution gives us a voice that no one has dared to use before and depending on how we use that voice, it can be just as powerful. My letter is ready to go to NH's govenor asking that New Hampshire lead the way in calling for a Constitutional Convention. This is one of the few times in history that there is room for multiple leaders is a charge on injustice. Please, consider joining me and leading the way to real change.
4 Payments of $130. Still the best deal in town.
best deal? I guess you have a lot of great docs that even accept tricare….most here will not!
United States Senate Armed Services Committee
Room SR-228, Russell Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510-6050
202-224-3871
FULL COMMITTEE MEMBERS Are on the Internet.
Carl Levin is the Leading Democrat and John McCain is the Leading Republican.
The Senate Armed Services Committee has not had their say on this matter yet and this Committee is Made up of More Democrats then Republicans unlike the House Armed Services Committee which has more Republicans. They must have their say in the next month or two and then it goes to President Obama for his Approval before it can become law.
I just got off the Phone with the Senate Armed Services Committee operator and he said every Retiree should call every member of this Committee and then your State Senators and Congressman to let them know where you stand.
Once again, these Tricare Rate Hikes are not Law yet so make your calls and write your letters A.S.A.P.!
What COLA? We havent seen one in years!
P.S. That's why I am adamantly against a VALUE ADDED Tax of any amount. The government can arbitrarily raise it to any amount.
My family and I must live within our budget,we do not have a printing press to help us govern our living costs. Congress has absolute freedom to raise thier income, travel all over the world and collect a full retirement and social security plus health care after serving one term. Why not start cutting in congress Mr President? I spent 20 years in US Navy listening to how well I could live during my retirement. What happened to those promises?THANKS!!!!
Well hopefully some of these veteran advocacy groups will grow some BALLS. I do not want to hear it's only this percent or that percent. You have these morons that supposed to represent the people and because it does not affect them they do not give a damn! These damn morons give money to ILLEGALs… SSA is not allowed to ask for a SSN when they go for money. Everyone of you Reps wipe your butt with you hand and go to work to make changes to help the USA, you remember that the USA. Not for some damn vote by someone who isn't even in the country legally.
FU
Read more: http://militaryadvantage.military.com/2011/05/hou…
MilitaryAdvantage.Military.com
keep thinking that when the govt doesn't allow those with govt pensions to receive social security! it is next and not due to lack of funds.
beware
They tell you whatever they have to tell you to get you to let them have what they want. It's getting harder and harder to figure outhow to get care from the Military Medical Facilities. Even some of the military doctors have stated that if you are not active duty military, your chances of getting care in the facilities are decreased-they give you a referral to an outside provider to be seen and then you have to come up with the co-pays. So as a Retired Enlisted, not working, not yet eligible for Medicare, I pay the Annual Premium for TRICare (TRi Not 2 Care), I pay the co-pays for me, my spouse and my son, who has spina bifida, (Agent Orange in Viet-Nam). The Va Health Benefits Program originally set up to cover his health care issues/costs, has changed and has taken on the behavior of a Health Insurance Company, They don't cover this, they don't cover that….but go ahead and have it submitted and they MIGHT pay for it or some of it,,,but you're still responsible for what it refuses to cover. His medications caused dental problems, which I can't get anyone to address. He has been on a waiting list for a year to have extractions…but no hope in sight…as the medical facilities are being 'reorganized'. With Military Dependents as last on the priority list…The out look is not good for his physical, mental, dental or any other type of care he would have to depend on the government for. A preview of Obama Care at it's finest. This is what everyone who isn't an active/healthy contributor to the state has to look forward to. You better be healthy or know someone with connections-or you just won't matter. This country is moving from the leaders in medical care to the losers of medical care. Hope the Ruling Class/Elitests enjoy what they give themselves at the expense of everyone else.
Can I get a " Waiver" for the parts of this I don't like to participate in??
Or do I have to know/contribute to the party/election campaign of one of the politicians to get that too??
I was a recruiter for 17 years… and was trained to sell the Air Force and the retirement benefits. Most imporant, we were trained on how to sell Medical/Dental for life after 20 years at no cost. What a crock. I use to pride myself on never lieing to applicants, now I feel like I have lied to over thousands applicants that I talked to over the years. How about they give military retirees the same benefits as some who serves in congres for one term !!!!
that is neat, I never realized that screw over!
I memorized that poem 25 years ago during one of my 5 WESTPAC deployments (USN – 22 years) – can still recite it today – and am itching to grab a mic at a bar sometime when military bashing is going on so I'll have a chance to recite it to a crowd. I'll probably get thrown out / beaten up by those sober and smart enough to get it, but it will probably go over the heads of most. But worth it in my book!
It's time we take a united stand. Don't expect others to make the contacts to your Congressman/woman, Sentators, the President/Vioe President and, the Chairs of the those committees that are "robbing" us of our benefits.
Write today! And, encourage others to write as well. My emails are going out today!
And, I'm going to be closely monitoring votes and, I won't be providing any support, for any representative robbing us of our earned benefits and/or anyone he or she decides to back in upcoming elections.
I'm but one vote but we are many and, together, we can make enough noise to maybe open eyes.
Call your Senators and Congressman and all the Members of the House and Senate Armed Services Committees, Call, Call, Call and let them know here you stand. All the information is on this thread. If you can't find it, all of it is on the Internet. The Republican controlled House Armed Services Committee already Voted for Increases, it now must Move to the Democratically Controlled Senate Armed Services Committee for their Yea or Nay and then on to President Obama for his Yea or Nay before it becomes Law. It ain't over till it's over!
Call or we don't have anyone to blame but ourselves!
CALL, MAKE THE CALLS!
ACTION IS MORE USEFUL THEN DESPAIR!
MAKE THE CALLS!
Its the same old game. Its what is called “A peek under the tent provision.” It only costs a little at the start, and then is goes up and up. After just a few years its up beyond belief. Politicians do the same thing with taxes and fees. Increase a little bit then its up, up and away.
Here we go again, they are going to raise something that we need and was explain that we would have for life. Now don't get me wrong I do want to help but last week I have found out that I will be loosing my job and now they want to raise insureance. When will this stop?? This ding bat in office has distoryed our nation, but I guess we were needing a change and don't get me wrong he did change things, for bad to worse. Now only God will be able to get us out of this. He is living his father dream to distorye the USA and doing a good job of it.
The House voted on this and I plan to see how my member voted. If she voted for this she will not get my vote. It is as simple as that. I intend to fight this and try to have the Senate shoot it down. We can still work with them and have them fail to approve the bill with this as a provision. The DOD is just trying to put this on veterans and breaking promises has always been their way. It is ashame that they will not look out for our veterans better than this. I have and do favor no increase. We were not promised to have to pay for our medical care. If either of my Senators vote for it I won't vote for them. We have to get this out and make our views known to the Republicans in the House that we are not going to continue to be singled out and pay for this debt we did not create. Thank those that created it and let them find other ways to pay it back.
I am not happy about the pending rate increase to tricare prime, as many have stated, we were promised free health care for life, looks like our life have ended, becasue we sure don't get free health care anymore.
When I retired I chose to go to the VA for health care, that was a mistake, the service was a joke, standing in line while the person behind the counter talked on the phone to there friends and when you stated you had an appointment you were told to take a seat over there. What is going on in America, all those in the Congress and Senate are not going to getr their medical cost to increase not have they has a pay freeze the last 2 years. These are supposed to be our elected officals, but do they support what we want, well you can tell by what is happening now. We need to know who consented to this increase and demand they resign, because they do not supporty the retired community.
RON, YOU don't have a clue do you? Man, WAKE UP?? You were right about one thing, YOUR president did say everyone must sacrifice something. You may be a veteran, but you are obviously not a brother to those writing here today. My Father, Brother, and myself gave 83 years of our life, serving, thankfully and proudly, this country we love so dearly. Five combat tours, Purple Heart, Silver Star, Bronze Star, two star CIB later, and three disabilities later, we still, very much, love our country and would willfully do it all again. RON, you also refer to what we Veterans have done and recieve as a GOOD DEAL THAT MOST DO NOT HAVE??? RON, do you really not understand??? Most do not have your so called "Good Deal", because they haven't done and would never do what we do to deserve your "GOOD DEAL." RON, some of us love this country, so much, that it breaks our heart to see what YOUR president, is doing and has done to our country in just two years.
RON, again, get a clue, do some more research, talk to some other Veterans and do just a little more "Heart Searching" before you ramble next time. (Many Guard and Reserve soldiers retire in thier 50s and 60s). You are obviously just a tad misinformed.
Oh and Ron, I and many others do thank our Lord for everything we have and even everything we don't have! "Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 THS 5:16,17,18.
Oh and Ron, I am adding you to my prayer list.
Thanks, REAL Vets,
I Love You Guys, and Gals
yes get the section 8, "SNAP", "FI" and other benefits the idiots get for nothing to give up something
O'bummer good luck in 2012!!
As a retiree, I am sick to death of broken promises. I have been retired for over 9 years and have recieved ONE COLA raise, but my benefits either keep going away and what I have left costs me more to have. My 19 year old wanted to join the Army, and I flat out said NO. I told him why work 18-20 hour plus days putting your life on the line for a country that will screw you out of everything they promised. I told him to go to college and get a degree so he could afford all the bullshit our government has gotten us into!!
Talking to your Senators and Congressman does absolutely NO GOOD at all. They are worried about nothing but lining their own pockets and accomplishing their party's agenda, not what the people they represent want or need.
We need a businessman in Washington not politician!!
When I came in I didn't pay Social Security and was promised health care for life. Then after serving several years they started taking out Social Security stating we would get both full retirement and Social Security. Now today I am getting reduced retirement because I have to pay for Tri-Care, and can't afford to retire yet because of all the increased cost comming at me from city, state and federal goverment. When will the attack on our retirement income ever end?
Lets see, VA pay freeze, retirement COLA freeze since they are both linked to social security. Two year COLA freeze on my civil service pay and the GOP wants to make it five years. I've lost spending power due to inflation and now they want to put me further in the hole. If Congree were to link their pay to our and freeze it, maybe I would be ok, but they aren't. Congress gets a retirement after a few years, free health care and they want us to cut so they can rip us off. If you want us to be ok with this, do something about yourself first!
Come on people suck it up! How many of you have second jobs? Everyone knows two things are for sure ..death and tax's . I am a 100% disabled vet from Viet Nam and am glad to be getting what I can.
I speak for all military and retirees! Enough is enough, we gave years of oife to obtain what little we have. Little by little its all being taken away! Its time for the country to take care of home. Stop giving what we don't have. Taxes, food, gas, health, education is all being taken away. More and more of our were retirer pay will be given back and the point, no roof over our heads, no food to eat, its already here. Look on the streets, all you see is diasble Vet, now the street will become overwheled with hopeless. The rich get richer and the poor get poorer! I and a lot of others took alot while serving this country and we are still taking alot!
Yes we were promised free medtical and dental for life. A good deal for hiring someone to lay down there life for their country. A few Congressmen/women have served for their country but have forgotten to stand up for their fellow retires. If Obama wants to save money he needs to look at the white house first and start cutting expenses there, with him and his wife. any money he makes is a waste of taxpayers money–VOTE THEM OUT IN 2012 PLEASE
You all are right on the money they all need to go. My pay after 38 years of service is embarrassing to even tell anyone. Then they say no pay raise for god knows how long. Then they raise the federal taxes on us. Now they say this effects the people of working age ( those under 65) well again screwed because I will turn 61 at the end of the month. So the question of the day is if I'm of working age then why did DOD give me mandatory retireement at 60??? You know it's about buying new toys so how do we do it? get rid of people and kill thier benifits. The only contract in the USA that's not binding DOD go figure.
When I joined the USAF in 1985 it was made very clear that we would have free health care for life from the recruiter, To deny this fact is absurd as all veterans know. Our country is not the same country it was back then, I guess it never will be after 9/11. Somebody must burden the load, but I firmly believe that we should not be that group. Most have heard that less than 1 percent of all Americans serve in the military let alone in any type of government service. We have sacrificed more than most, I fear the future for veterans, because we are the most vulnerable to these politicians that cannot understand our sacrifices. Why is it that they can't understand? I will tell you because they are the folks that work Tue – Thu in Washington and have all the benifets we do for 4 years of their life of service (better benifets). Nothing will change until America changes and decides that we need real leaders and most of all people that realize what the US should stand for. My apoligies for this blog, but I couldn't resist to write the obvious.
If you voted for Obama in 2008, to prove you're not a Racist, then vote for anybody else in 2012, to prove you're not an IDIOT……509 Days to go till….YOU'RE FIRED.
Republican, Howard P. "Buck" McKeon (R-Calif.), the new House Armed Services Committee chairman, called it a "sensible" approach to raise TRICARE fees.
DOC, 0311's/FMF
Call your Senators and Congressman and all the Members of the House and Senate Armed Services Committees, Call, Call, Call and let them know where you stand. All the information is on this thread. If you can't find it, all of it is on the Internet. The Republican controlled House Armed Services Committee already Voted for Increases, it now must Move to the Democratically Controlled Senate Armed Services Committee for their Yea or Nay and then on to President Obama for his Yea or Nay before it becomes Law. It ain't over till it's over!
Call or we don't have anyone to blame but ourselves!
CALL, MAKE THE CALLS!
ACTION IS MORE USEFUL THEN DESPAIR!
MAKE THE CALLS!
The above statement is in this article if you read the whole post by clicking on the bottom.
The Article is by Tom Philpott who has been around for a few decades. The House Armed Services Committee called for increases first. Republicans won the House in the 2010 election and they control this House Committee. This issue now moves to the Senate Armed Services Committee which has more Democrats for their Yea or Nay. Then to President Obama for his Yea or Nay.
Thanks for your service Devil Dog. Being a Doc with the 0311s were the best years of my life and the most fun!
YOU ARE SO RIGHT. THE SO CALLED SENATORS WHO ARE ON THESE
COMMITTEES WHO ARE LOOKING OUT FOR THE VETERANS ARE ASLEEP. WE NEED TO BAND TOGETHER IN 2012 AND VOTE THEM OUT.
I saw an article stating that that inflation is up so let's see if we get a raise. We haven't received a raise in a few years now.
THIS SUCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I don't know who wastes more money, military or civilian. When we Left San Vito Italy in the 90's, the base was closing but we were still paying the Italians to build new base housing the would remain forever empty. When I had knee surgery last year my insurance paid $600 for a small device that stimulated my muscles electrically. I priced the device by brand and model on the internet for $49.00.
Suggestions to elected officials and military brass about saving money fall on deaf ears, as always.
I agree with reopening the hospitals and treating troops on base.
If they want to reduce costs, reopen all the Military Hospitals that were closed after the (BRACS) Base Reallignment and Closure Commissions after the Cold War ended. They had the "Peace Divedend" after Russia Colapsed but Military Retirees are now being told there is only room for Active Duty at the remaining Hospitals that were left open. It could be a Win-Win situation. We can keep our own Military Medical people trained and it is also common knowledge that every time we Contract Medical Care out to Civilians, the initial costs are low but they quickly go up to unaffordable levels.
We deserve a "Peace DIvidend" too, right?
Amen, it is about time someone is talking sense on here.
Take responsibility for your own actions and stop complaining about every perceived wrong that has ever been committed against you. You had the opportunity, you just didn't take advantage of them.
Never voted for the punk, and never will. I pray to God our military stick together and fight this bozo's hypocirtical lies until the end. Did he or did he not say during his running campaign back in the day he said he would NOT raise taxes he did, he said he would touch military health care but he did and he's going to do more. He goes around to military bases working real hard on telling them lies and really all he is doing is telling SOLDIERS what they want to hear so the bastard gets voted for again. " make sure you never go to a liberal college. If you see a liberal college that will tell you why we're in the mess we're in now.
They want to put us all in the poor house. They do not respect a promise
What I find interesting is that the hight cost of health care is blamed on the retirees. It's Congress who keeps expanding the benefit, It's is the MTF Commanders who do not have an active Appointment Template Management officer to manage the appointment schedules (call next tuesday at 0700 is the norm these days- sound familiar?), It is the MTF Commanders that send TRICARE PRIME Retirees out into the civilian community for speciality care when appoaintments are available but not for retirees, it's is the MTF Commanders that permit Flag/General Officer to have access to "Executive Services" a special clinic staffed to the hilt for them (only) and they have access to all speciality care not available to the non-flag/general retiree and the kicker is they are told they do not have to be TRICARE PRIME.
There are many legit gripes in here but the overall din is too much. The gripes are fair so far as they go but fail to take account of the larger picture. Our national debt is our single largest national security threat. We all got ourselves into this mess, most especially those of us (like me) who have been voting longer (in my case since 1968). Our failure has been to keep electing people who raid the social security trust fund and do other economically boneheaded things – but we have all enjoyed the party along the way. We are talking $30 and $60 – yes, it is true that it affects enlisted retirees more than officers (in many though certainly not all cases) – but it is a modest way to make a patient bear at least some of the cost (and appreciation of the expense) of health care. The simple fact is that everyone needs to pitch in. The odd complaint that the military makes an easy target is simply not right, but of course every group makes such a claim. Oil companies, old folks, young folks, civil servants, east-coast elites, rust belt folks, west coast surfers, college-educated, uneducated, tree-huggers, homeowners, apartment dwellers – we all make easy targets, so we claim. If we don't agree to share the pain of the solution, this great nation will surely and rapidly devolve to banana republic status. Then $30 or $60 won't even get you half a cup of coffee. My suggestion is to think of solutions and then let your representatives and senators know, in reasoned terms, what you feel and why.
Sorry to tell you this but you sound as though… well as though you believe they would listen and really care. If thats what you think, you haven't been paying attention. See what you say may be correct and the amt's are small in the big pic, but proportion them up to the who's who and see the complaints. Talk about cutting out foreign aid(monster $$$) instead of taking our pennies, you will hear squeal like a pig. But only if they listened. But they wont. They will hand you understanding sympaty and plattitudes. I know I have been there. A lot. Mail, Phone calls. Visits. On line…..all the same. Republicans, Democrats, House and Senate. All hand shaking head nodders.
The United States government has consistently and deliberately lied to us. You know what? The U.S. government sucks big time. They know that most military folks will just grumble and bitch, but in the end …. they will lay down on their backs and simply comply. And unfortunately that's true. You want Congress to take note — well then get the current military lifers still in uniform to raise some holy hell. Because it will just get worst in time and they will get also get screwed in 10-20 years.
And by government devils, I DO NOT mean Obama, although he isn't doing a damn thing to help out the retireed. I am talking about the flag-waving forked tongue Republican carpetbaggers and the do-nothing arse-swelling Democrats in Congress. Remember this, it was the Republicans than sent in ill-equipped troops into their Iraq adventure and basically said "too bad, those are the breaks". And it's the Republicans who want to screw all you retirees with their plan to scuttle Medicare and have you pay a lot more once for medical care in the future (damn your service, your injuries, your separations, et cetera).
Republicans are sataan minded bastards and Democrats are useless dingbats.
Sometimes, I wonder why our men and women give their lives on the battle fields for freedom, when those who might be considered lucky to return home only to find out that they may not be able to afford the home they were protecting. Like anything that is required to live, keep getting higher in cost, the less we, the retired mititary have to enjoy these few years that we have on this earth. Why, should we not have to worry about our health needs. Why don't congress pass a bill to send us back into battle. Then if we are lucky, all they will have to expense is for a tombstore and a flag. I still LOVE America, even if it does not love me back.
Did I get a COLA increase this year? No. Last year? No. But this year, I got a tax increase instead! ($32 less from my retirement check) I am one of the "working age" retirees, but I am NOT working. I am trying to live off my meager Navy pension since I have been out of work (but looking) for a year and a half. I refuse to pay TRICARE Prime premiums, as I was promised free medical care for serving 20 years. So I use Tricare Standard or Extra. Well I still have a $150 deductible & a 25% co-pay whenever I need medical care. How the hell is that FREE?!?! I can't get eye exams or glasses, and of course no dental. Viet Nam Era & Desert Storm Era vets have gotten screwed. BOHICA.
So Mr Obama.__Nothing will change and We can keep our Health Care Plan!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
THESE TRICARE RATE HIKES ARE NOT LAW YET!
These Tricare hikes have only been passed by the Republican Controlled House Armed Services Committee. They are not Law yet.
It goes to the Senate Armed Services Committee in the next month or two for their Yea or Nay, which is controlled by the Democrats.
Then it goes to President Obama for his Yea or Nay if it makes it past the Democratically controlled Senate Armed Services Committee.
This is our MOST VALUABLE BENIFIT, everything else is just Chump Change!
Call and write your Senators and Congressmen or we have no one else to blame but ourselves if we lose this Fight!
So I was one of those that retired after 21 years of service and ONLY because my ex-wife took my kids away and moved back to Texas. I followed. After working in the civilian education industry 10 years, I was laid off. Then to top it all off, I was deemed unemployable by my neurology provider, due to my service connected injuries and I have to get around on a motorized scooter and I am only 46 years. Yes, my disabilities are service connected, but the definition of a working age retiree has yet to be created. As a disabled veteran, I receive a ton of benefits, but, I had to put in my time to get there.
Part 2…Now they want us to pay more, but not earn more. In fact, I don't remember even getting a COLA increase last year, yet for my state, the COLA has went up. So what is COLA based on? What are we doing when we have the very same people living under bridges that put their lines on the line, no matter how long, that should have the public and non-profit support, as well as the governments approval to QUIT helping out others all around the globe and START taking care of our own! I don't worry how long someone served, or if they served during war time or piece time. The fact of the matter is that they did serve, they were available a t a moments notice to go and fight for our country with no questions asked. Then to turn around and stab them in the back after all they have done for us is simply ludacris.
THESE TRICARE RATE HIKES ARE NOT LAW YET!
These Tricare hikes have only been passed by the Republican Controlled House Armed Services Committee. They are not Law yet.
It goes to the Senate Armed Services Committee in the next month or two for their Yea or Nay, which is controlled by the Democrats.
Then it goes to President Obama for his Yea or Nay if it makes it past the Democratically controlled Senate Armed Services Committee.
This is our MOST VALUABLE BENIFIT, everything else is just Chump Change!
Call and write your Senators and Congressmen or we have no one else to blame but ourselves if we lose this Fight!
Might as well add the fact that if you actually were able to save enough money to invest, or just happened to have a spouse that could supplement your income enough to make retirement affordable — you may get to pay extra for Part B. Not only is your health care no longer free, if your retirement income exceeds certain limits you get to pay a PREMIUM for you health care. Or said another way, the cost of your health care becomes “means” based, not health based!!!! That may sound reasonable on the surface, but increase you income over set amounts and your “free” health care cost even more! For me, I sold a house that will now effect my premiums for at least 1 year if not more!!
yeah but Obama is already busy going around conning the twenty something who still have their heads stuck up their arses, and will fall for anything that lyin bastard spits out of his mouth. They fall for it all the way , believe him etc. The guy ( Obama) is the biggest b.s. than Bill Clinton was lol. With all of what is going on I dont know how these people keep falling for his b.s..
You I read about how this is going to effect this and I pay this and I was promised that…But in the end we as veterans deserved what we earned.
I served over 22 plus years and even while on active duty I had to go to off base hospitals because the base I was station didn’t have a Military Cilinc or Hospital. Seeing that most of the retires start a second career and most have an option from their current employeer, most chose the Benifit they have earned becasue it a system that is cost effective. I as a retire would vote for these changes.
First raise the intial cost after you retire to enroll into TRICARE. 3 times the current annual rate. If they refuse, they will have a choice to enroll later but have to pay a pentaly. Next raise the rate for actively able workers from the current rate to match the cost of our pay increase annualy…If we don’t get a cost of living increase then we don’t pay an increase. NEXT and this is something I would even get out and promote…MAKE dependants appointments even on base have to pay the same co-pay as the retire does…the active duty member pays nothing for his own care, no enrollment fee for his family…no mattter what the visit is for any of thier dependants will have to pay a $12 office visit for E-5 and above $4 for below. Now how many appointments would be freed up for nosense and how much health care money would be genrated this way by requireing all to pay something.
Lets get together to ensure we are able to afford health care before before all of our retire check is signed over to the CILIVIAN DOCTOR WHO NEVER SERVED, but will take your money.
First I do not want to pay anything extra! However the problem is with DOD (Gates) and the Chiefs of Staff sitting around the table! If anyone ever wondered why the boys in uniform that lead the military and continue to push the envelope on our increase of tri-care well its simple! A 30.00/60.00 increase and ability to increase yearly is wrong. A retired enlisted or a retired officer get's the same increase across the board. If he DOD and Chiefs of staff did it by percentage of our retirement checks say 6% increase then the Chiefs of staff would be here too complaining! (heck this is chump change for the 0-9's and 0-10's that are pushing for this increase.
I never understood nor agreed how the powers to be spent surplus money near the end of the facial year only to see wants and BS purchased at the end. If we are sincere about cutting the budget and saving our benefits we'll clean your own house first!!! The powers to be should look in their own house before cleaning mine!
Just my two cents cause that's all I have now CHANGE!
P.S. working retirees would only be effected? ever wonder why they said this cause after 65 you are now under Medicare!
Ron said it right! I'm a retired E-8 and am thankful everyday for the paycheck I get each month. My neighbors and friends dont have the same luxury thats for sure. Maybe the folks who were promised medical for life have a point but the rest of us need to suck it up and do our part. This economy isn't going to fix itself so each of us must sacrifice to fix it. President Obama said that very thing when he was elected. By the way, it's not going to be fixed over night either. Many have lost sight of that. The TriCare increase is minimal ($5 per month family rate) compared to what many of my friends and neighbors pay per month which in some cases is over $800 per month. YOU HAVE A GOOD DEAL! Move on.
We gave our Word and we kept our Word based on the WORD our Leaders gave us that if we Served for 20 or more years of Honorable Service, we would get No Cost Health care for LIFE!.. We didn't get 401ks, Stock Options or Profit Sharing.
This Pill is too Hard to Swallow. We live in The Wealthiest, Most Powerful Nation Mankind has EVER KNOWN. Some can afford these Hikes and many more cannot and they can't get their Youth Back!
WE KEPT OUR WORD!
YOUR WORD IS YOUR BOND!
You can thank the Child in Chief and the Keystone Cops he surrounds himself with.
This is a pay cut, there have been no COLA's for two years because Spanky Bernanke and his masters at the Fed don't count food and energy into the inflationary mix…and I thought Oba-Mao socialized health care was suppose to bring the prices down? Can I get a health care waiver just like the 1000 plus businesses and unions did?
THESE TRICARE RATE HIKES ARE NOT LAW YET!
These Tricare hikes have only been passed by the Republican Controlled House Armed Services Committee. They are not Law yet.
It goes to the Senate Armed Services Committee in the next month or two for their Yea or Nay, which is controlled by the Democrats.
Then it goes to President Obama for his Yea or Nay if it makes it past the Democratically controlled Senate Armed Services Committee.
This is our MOST VALUABLE BENIFIT, everything else is just Chump Change!
Call and write your Senators and Congressmen or we have no one else to blame but ourselves if we lose this Fight
Guys and Gals (fellow veterans). This is the text of an e-mail I sent to the Prsident, my Senators and Representatives. Please feel free to take it, edit as you see fit and send it to the bums in DC that are supposed to represent you!!! Do it now, do it often. I re-edit, re-send it every couple of days! If we bury them in e-mail, maybe someone will hear us! HELP!!!
As you are likely aware, on May 12, the House Armed Services Committee (HASC) approved its version of the $690 Billion FY2012 National Defense Authorization Act (H.R. 1540).
They dropped a provision to freeze TRICARE fees for another year and replaced it with one that allows increases for FY 2012, but adds “protections” against “disproportional future increases”.
I suspect that any “protections” are, as usual, not worth the cost of the ink it took to write them, and that “disproportional” will be easily rationalized and will not slow-down the continued rape, abuse, and erosion of military retiree pensions and benifits.
Also, at issue is the Subcommittee’s recommendation that DOD’s Military Retiree Health Care program have a 1 year moratorium on any increase in beneficiary health care costs. Healthcare has been a prime motivator to accept the rigors of 20 plus years of military service, hardships of family separations, and the personal sacrifice of life or limbs. Please exclude any proposed changes considered for TRICARE.
More important, the bill adds a statement that Congress recognizes that career military people pay the bulk of the premiums up-front and in-kind, through decades of service and sacrifice. The bill language specifies that the percentage fee increase in future years my not exceed the percentage increase in military retired pay. Whoopee!!!
Another bad bill and another sad day for america. With all the billions upon billions of tax-dollars stolen, thrown away, and wasted by my elected officials, the best congress can come up with is to once again target military retirees! If that’s the best you’ve got, you should all be thrown out of office!
It is my hope that you as my elected official hear my voice and those voices of your fellow constituents AND agree that it is time to recognize that military retirees and disablied veterians have already paid for their health care many times over through their sacrifice, and that imposing TRICARE fees was a bad idea to start with. Increasing those fees, is, in short, criminal!
The bulk of our out-of-touch elected officials have never served in the military, and surely the majority of them have never been deprived of much of anything. Many of these “American Royalty” as they are refered to by some, are WELL payed, pampered, and protected. Unlike many military retirees, most politicians have never had to miss out on home, family, friends, holidays, etc… in austure, harsh, or sometimes hostile circumstance, and often far from US shores. Those who “serve” (sic) on capitol hill risk neither life, nor limb, pain nor discomfort. And they certainly do not volunteer their youth and vitality to serve their nation for low pay, and a diminishing promise of future compensation based on repeated broken promises made by political oportunists!
Yet that is where many military retirees find themselves today. Many, like myself, are now aging, possibly sick or disabled, and though still technically of “working age”, are unable to find decent work. Rather, we must rely on a small retirement, which is constantly subject to political whims and tides, and grows smaller (in real terms) each year.
Then those same political oportunists, those same individuals who have no problem casting aside the promises made by their predessors, will add insult to injury by setting the stage for annual increases in TRICARE “health insurance” premiums.
Shame on all those who allow this lie, this fakery, this slap in the face to military veterians and retirees to go forward!
Shame on those who shrug their shoulders and say “Gee, I was not in favor of it, I voted against it”, having done so after determining they could safely do so politically, and let it pass! Essentially do what is usually done in Washington, little or nothing good! Shame on you all!
I strongly suggest that when H.R. 1540 is brought to the House floor for vote that you sponsor amendments, that would correct this continuing failure of our Government to recognize and honor the service rendered by those who have defended and \ or now defend our great country.
Throwing punches at each other does no good. Those who think some senior enlisted has it made, as they had it easy in the service and then another easy job out of the service, are cheating you somehow should get a grip. Maybe these type retirees need to be given more credit than you are giving them. Maybe they lived a good life, did there service well and most of all, planned their post retirement years. Allot of us didn't plan, we just kept living without thinking of the future. If you want to complain about anyone, complain about yourself for not being as wise as some. And we shouldn't feel sorry for ourselves as some on here has done. If someone scored high enough to get into a specialized career field that allowed them to continue doing the same type work after retirement for more money and now they are set up better than some. You need to look inward and think about your failures to study and plan instead of trying to tear down those who did. I look back and see that I could have done better and planned better, but I don't begrudge those that did. And those that are considered combat veterans consider yourself better than the rest of us, that is BS. You scored low on you entrance exam and was given the job your test scores said you could do. Rifleman, infantry. I am proud of all who had to carry a rifle or any other job going into combat, but you should rethink your position. You were given the job you earned. I am truly sorry for all of us who are banged up, had real hard luck and will probably die sooner than most civilians, but that is life. SNAFU.
My wife and I will get by somehow and so will all of you. But we plan to continue as we served, with honor, pride and no self pity
Keeping your word has nothing to do with Self Pity…
Doc, I joined in 67 and got out in 88. I was told all the same things about what we would get for life. There were even pamphlets handed out telling of all our great benefits to come. We got some but not all. But no one signed a paper stating that all the promised entitlements were contractual. It was all verbal.
The last few months of my time I was given the job of Squadron reenlistment NCO. That was 1988 and the same type pamphlets were still around. Everyone wanted to reenlist then, so all I did was push papers and noticed that nothing the re-enlistees signed included promised benefits to come. They signed nothing promising them health care for life or anything else. So we were promised these things by word of mouth, no contract was signed by anyone stating we would get all bennies that were promised by reenlistment NCOs or talks during commander's calls by the Squadron Commanders.. The last couple months I was a reenlistment NCO, I still believed what the pamphlets and I were saying as I had heard it repeated for 21 years.
And I honestly think the military and civilian leaders of the earlier years planned to fulfill those promises. But no one was smart enough to see the future of the Government growing much to large and the stupid ideas that Congress pushed through to ruin our economy. Now we are stuck as part of the solution. The verbal promises were pushed away to pay for stupid things like Obama care.
Doc, maybe I should have used the word anger instead of self pity. But they broke no written contracts to us, when they told us of our future Bennies, I think those saying it from congress down were repeating those promises in good faith. They all had the intention of fulfilling those words. But now it is time to trim the fat and the congress is still incompetent, so they trim our bennies as we are low hanging fruit that is easy for them to trim and claim a victory for cutting costs. No matter how minuscule the savings turn out to be.
So Doc, go back and look at all the reenlistment statements/contracts you signed. None of them will mention future bennies. So in the eyes of Congress, no promises were broken because nothing was written down as a contract and signed by both the re-enlistee and the officer who also signed the document with you.
I think most of us are hurt and feel as though we were cheated, and some of us are really feeling sorry for ourselves and pissed off. I don't like it either, but a spoken promise with nothing signed as a contract means nothing. I believe that we and the congress and the heads of all branches of the service honestly thought those verbal promises would be met. But they didn't think we would have become a debtors nation with fools as leaders. This post won't make anyone feel better, but it should explain more of what the verbal promise meant versus those same words written on a contract..
Sorry comrades, but we are all in the same boat even though we all have different issues in our life. We, the military veterans, are easy to steal from and it has always been that way. Go ahead and *****, but you are just wasting good *****ing words. Save them for when you attend a town hall meeting for one of these clowns trying to get re-elected and then give them hell. And keep giving them hell and *****ing until they drag you out into the street to shut you up. Who knows, maybe a national TV crew will video the bullies dragging you out and your story may go national. Anything is possible.
Good luck and remember that God loves us all.
Rob, never apply that title to the man currently sitting in the White House. He is not the Commander in Chief. Dubya could have asked for the very blood from my body and it would be freely spilt upon the ground. I told a Canadian that very statement on a trip to Niagra Falls. It left her speechless. Obamma is the president. He and his family cheapen that Great House with the likes of Common. And they had the stupidity to call the guy a poet. I'm more poet than he is. NO REALLY I AM. Rappers aren't poets. They're just lookin for fame and the idiotic press gives them the lime light.
Rob, here's a few lines I made up a long time ago. Rappers don't impress me much at all. Here's my juice.
I am intensity personified
and if you guessed my magnitude
you'd run and hide.
For I am a reaper of exsquisit taste.
And I'm lookin for a life, a life to waste.
Could it be you or another soul.
Don't piss me off or heads will roll.
For none can stop my stalking gate,
though in the shadows they hide and wait.
Nuf said.
THESE TRICARE RATE HIKES ARE NOT LAW YET!
These Tricare hikes have only been passed by the Republican Controlled House Armed Services Committee. They are not Law yet.
It goes to the Senate Armed Services Committee in the next month or two for their Yea or Nay, which is controlled by the Democrats.
Then it goes to President Obama for his Yea or Nay if it makes it past the Democratically controlled Senate Armed Services Committee.
This is our MOST VALUABLE BENIEFIT, everything else is just Chump Change!
Call and write your Senators and Congressmen or we have no one else to blame but ourselves if we lose this Benefit.
Although the government promised us free health care, Congress will do as it pleases. This proposal is much better than the Secreatry of Defense had requested. It is also more reasonable than the previous proposal that would have skyrocketed costs by 6.2 percent every year. Premiums would have exceeded the average military pension in short time. If Congress writes the current agreement into law, we will be safer from future unreasonable premium fee hikes. What we do have to be concerned about now, are unreasonable increase requests for other Tricare fess. I expect the next attack on fees will be for increase requests in copays and drug fees. Continue to write your Representatives and Senators.
Retiree J. Collins
As a commander in the Guard, I had several self-employed guys and gals depending on TriCare for Life as a retirement health insurance option. After looking at it during the Gulf War, it looked iffy. After retiring, I found out I had to pay for Medicare B to get TriCare, and, if I really wanted to be covered, I had to keep my wife's Blue Cross/Blue Shield.
So, I'm paying for Medicaid and Medicare for those who choose not to work for a living, and they don't even have to be a citizen. While those of us, who were willing to give our lives to avoid Communism and oppressive regimes, now live in both. Think of all those who fell, and went to their graves, thinking they were saving a country where all are treated equally and government allows you freedom of choice and an ability to make something of yourself. I guess Big Brother had other plans while we were away.
This is reprehensible, anther travesty committed against the defenders of our freedom and very way of life in America. Shame on anyone who has had a hanhd in bringing these increses into play! For SCORN!
My typos are an indication of my disgust over this slap in the face of our military!
well i feel is very unfair for retirees we are making only 50% more or less depending the years that were served and the rank. An increase will have to be accompany by the best medical service that the military can provide. They look at our Id 's and we go to the bottom of the bunch. We cannot tolerate be treated as 2nd class we need to demand. They want more from us they are going to give us more.
Cola, yeah I vaguely remember that. Once again broken promises from our politicians. We kept our part of the deal, frequent moves, deployments, operational holds, etc. They don't need us any longer, to old, different equipment, so they just don't care. They will get what ever they need by voting for it, or just taking it from their supporters. We should clean house, vote out all incumbents until all our elected officials get the message.
THESE TRICARE RATE HIKES ARE NOT LAW YET!
These Tricare hikes have only been passed by the Republican Controlled House Armed Services Committee. They are not Law yet.
It goes to the Senate Armed Services Committee in the next month or two for their Yea or Nay, which is controlled by the Democrats.
Then it goes to President Obama for his Yea or Nay if it makes it past the Democratically controlled Senate Armed Services Committee.
This is our MOST VALUABLE BENEFIT, everything else is just Chump Change!
Call and write your Senators and Congressmen or we have no one else to blame but ourselves if we lose this Benefit.
Respectful emails, letters and phone calls are Welcome. They want to hear what you have to say…
Getting started. Keep it going.
Why not just shoot us all if we have the nerve to retire- would be easy and they could say we were escaping and they had no alternative. What a joke most of our politicians are- they know what is best for all until they get elected.Maybe also we could elect all the editorial page writers as they certainly know ALL the answers on every subject.
It sure is a bunch of bull, when the same people over there and dying will get a pay cut or raise our free medical for life, how do the free loaders still get the free ride, someone better start making more ethical choices, or w should all become a bunch of free loaders and see what that gets the Government. I think the Government forgets they work for US not the other way around!!!
We lived up to our commitment to defend our country. Some of the veterans came back disabled and some did not come back. Some are PTSD for life. Why can't you honor your commitment to us and take away some of the welfare for those who use drugs or just live on the system. They have not contributed to our country. Take it from them
If there has been any veterans and retiree groups that have conceded to these cuts in benefits, We need to know which groups so we can pull our memberships. I would say that a cut in our Senators and Congress pay is appropriate, but never the ones we need most, our Military. Never!
Working-age retirees???? Some of these people have other health insurance through spouse's employer and their employer's now insurance. They sometimes don't use the Tricare insurance that much. The Government needs to lower the exemption amount on medical expenses on your taxes, then maybe with the extra costs they want us to pay we can get a break on our taxes at the end-of-year.
SMSGTBOB
Only this time they a shafting us while the wars are still going, and another war in Yeman waiting to start.
If goverment going to cut medical bennies for us, how about taking free medical care away from all illegal aliens.
The people who make the decisions on our benifits, don't really care about us, they gave themselves a pay raise and told us we can't give you a raise because we are in debt and they get a pension and medical care after serving one term, we need to vote these people out of office and have their benefit and retirement package changed.
As the wife of a retired military officer, it embarrasses me that many of us don’t realize that WE, the military retiree, have been paying a very small premium. We don’t pay in a year what most people have to pay in a month. I know our premiums have to increase. I would just ask the congress to understand that not all retirees have the same amount of retired pay coming in. This has nothing to do with your party of preference, it has to do with doing our smalll part to keep the US afloat.
I joined the army in 1958. I have seen a lot of changes. But when the draft quit. the army changed.I retired as a SFC. and if you don't want loose your stripes.all
you have to do is say yes sir. That is not military.Let the military run the military.
And quit breaking more promises. when uncle Sam let mom and dad tell the
army don' be so rough with Jr. If you want a military treat the soldiers,Like you promise and keep your promises. There is a lot of people in high places.who don't really know who they are working for..the people or their pocket books.
There is always talk of raising the amount for medical insurance on a constant basis. So, I sat here thinking, medical costs and gas prices are similiar, they just keep going up and up and for what reason? I was in the emergency room a few months ago and received a copy of the costs associated with it for being there for 4 hours, it cost almost $1600!?! and they didn't even do much other than tell me i had bronchitis. While I was there they gave me two aspirin, the printout said "medications" and the price was $3.65. For two aspirin?!!!! They are probably buying some generic brand aspirin for a couple dollars a bottle and making a few hundred dollars off of it. Then to charge me $190 just for the emergency room visit, for what, to sit my fat ass in a chair to waite? WTF over!!!??? In the news there is talk of investigating the gas price issue and there is talk of a need to regulate the price. Well, what about regulating the medical costs that these hospitals and doctors are charging too? Maybe the insurance premiums might not have to be as high, hmmmm……
What a shame that these retirees of significant rank are helping make these proposals. A 4-star general and E-9 probably could afford to pay more for medical with that fat retirement paycheck + the money they get from their consulting and/or government jobs…leave the lower ranks alone. Shame Shame Shame.
Ron, well if it was that easy you should have stayed the long hall to get the full meal deall. So answer why did you not stay the 20. Oh I am sure it is a good reason, a good personal reason. Well maybe some of us stayed for the pay and benefits we were told we would get. Just like Enron and all the other companies broken promises. You know that leadership starts from the top, if you dont want a company to change their words you need to start with the goverment, how can you prosecute a company for ruiening a persons future if you do it yourself.
SFC Bob,
Well Ron like many others could not handle it because as he said it's a "good deal", why would one pass up a good deal. You can see his anger now.
Yea, yea, yea! Why don't you guys just suck it up and quit complaining. There are those veterans out there like me, Korea, that are not "qualified" for any form of military health care although we were promised "health care for life" when we enlisted. I haven't received a SS COLA in two years, but keep paying higher and higher Medicare payments. I think the working military retiree should be able to pay about 10% of what I have to pay for my health care over and above what I pay for Medicare.
Uhh did you serve 20+?? I doubt it. Most people on this blog have. Get lost loser!!!
No contract anyone or entity enters into with the United States will be honored properly by the United States unless it leaves the rich rich and the poor poor. Those in the middle get screwed. Avoid any dealings with Uncle Sam. Don't defend him, serve him or enter into a contract wth him because he is a dishonest SOB. And who in the heck decided what working age is? Do they have my genetics which point to my death in less than fifteen years! I am not going to work until the day I die! I earned this modest retirement that contract breaching Uncle Sam is gradually taking away from me.
i been fighting for three years to get my beifits and do you think i got them yet hell no they just say come or call back tomarow and we will make sure you get help but guess what im still waiting
Belt tightning should begin with the FAT CATS in Congress. $174,000.00 Taxpayer dollars every year, MINIMUM! Lots of girth that can be squeezed their. And the pay inflated and number of Congressional aides and staff both need to be reduced.
It will do our elected officials good if they need to THINK FOR THEMSELVES for a change.
A 10% reduction every year that the budget is in decifit would concentrate their minds wonderfully. And it would take a decade to get back down to sensible levels.
What is a "working age retiree?" -I haven't worked in 6 years since I got hurt on the job, What are they going to do, make me go to work
Why don’t we start the money savings by eliminating benefits for non-citizens/yep… those that have contributed nothing to our society – In particular, let’s throw those non-American, American Flag burning protesters desecrating our flag on our own streets. Yeah, let’s start there. That would save enough money to pay off the national debt in no time.
It's absolutely SHAMEFUL what's being done to military people. We gave it our all and now were told to F. off. A full military WALK OUT from ALL the services should be done and lets see who cries "wolf" first. Guarantee you it won't be we the military!!! Let's see how D.C. would do out there on those front lines!!! They can die and go straight to hell while they're at it!!!
Yeap………officers are Ok with it BUT looking at the big picture,enlisted gets it again. How about starting at the top with the increase then work your way down……………………………… I bet u get a total different reaction from the the big dogs then…………………………………………THINK ABOUT THAT
what cola the govenment will find a way to screw out of that you guys are a joke stop voting yourselves a raise and give it to the people who should have it you all should be ashamed of your selves your all a bunch of worthless pieces of crap you all should live in our shoes for one year and see if your tone changes you senatore, congreesman and representatives all disgust me
What is wrong with these people. Who in their right mind would think it is ok to raise tricare rates. Im embarassed to have served with anyone who served that thinks this is ok. It is not. It was to be free for life. It is now 500 a year. Just giving in to and letting congress do this now is hurting us again. Want to fix this. Have it go by rank. enlisted pays 500 a year and officrs pay say 3000 a year. O 7 and above 5000 a year. Since the CNO and the Officers association agreed to this they can pay the bulk. The CNO is retiring soon so lets give him what he asked for. Morally this is wrong. I was in for 22 years and on recruiting. I remeber that i was told free medical for life and I told people that when I was recruiting. I get around 2200 a month in retirement. if someone thinks that is alot then they never served or didnt have a career. An officer makes at least double that in retirement and they dont deserve it. So I cansee hwere raising tricare is no big deal to them. Now make them pay 5-6 grand a year and tie that to their cola raise and they would understand what we are taliking about. I have served with officers that werent smart enough to be stupid. So the CNO well I dont need to say it. Officers never looked out for enlisted and even in retirement they dont. Congress needs to do the right thing and not point fingers. I dont blame them for passing this. The CNO gates and the officers ASO. agreed to this. Why not raise it. If all the the states said it would be ok for the feds to raise taxes wouldnt you raise them over cutting other programs. Once you get any approval for something it is the path of least resistance. The CNO said it is ok so congress says the Navy and military say it is ok. Gee he went to collage for this. You dont need a degree to see who the CNO is looking out for. Also how about investigating triwest. The President and owner is a scam artist. he was buddys with someone who knew theformer president of the U.S. and gee its a wonder they got the contract. Talk about inside information and a scam. Get a new company to run tricare for less and a new CNO who stands up for his people. Im embarrased to have served with the CNO and that I met the Triwest president who is a scam artist. Fire these people and get people in those jobs that care about America,Veterns and tricare.
I am a 20 year retired O-5 (COMMANDER). Do not know where you got your figures…Please check and not “assume” because someone told you so.
Secondly, if officers have it so “good” you should have become one…
Thirdly I was an Engineering Duty Officer in the Submarine Force. We always worked as a team…understood each other’s responsibilities and what was expected…Like others like me, we too worked hard for our benefits…no, we are not happy either…
I recognize we are ALL getting shafted by our government pulling back on promises… Know that our “government” is not the “ones running the show.” as they are all puppet and pawns on the chess board just like you and I.
And finally, thank you for your service.
Red Tailed Hawk
You know what, people do not know where to start. We talk because we are frustrated. How can one man in office have such controll over all of America. We pay their salaries with our taxes Well how many of you are willing to stop paying there salaries. We should be controllong that not them. When I worked for some one they controlled my increases and benefits. They also had the same benefits that we did. Who gave the government all of this controll._Have we been not paying attention. Somehow and I don't know how we need to do something. we need decent people who will to work for us like our fore fathers. If not, we have fought all those wars for nothing. The Military is what kept us free and now they say we do not need the military. Well the military are volunteers that protected us for years._We have so many crooks in the government taking what belongs to us we are in this situation. Instead of changing there way of life and there benefit packages and there favors for others to help them hurt us even more so there pockets get full, what do they do but take everything from the people who got them to where they are. I pray to God that we the people stick together._I really mean pray to God because he is the only one who will get us out of this mess
If you want to make the changes run for office on the platform of cleaning up political corruption. Problem is that when you get there you'll be swallowed up by the machine, it's grown too large.
True Congress needs to spend more than one, more than two, at least three terms for the Senate and eight terms in the House to retain a pension and medical (all of which should be taxed accordingly equal to that which the common tax payer lays out each year). Additionally, if a sitting President gets re-elected they should get no more than 50% of their current salary after their second term (plus any retirement credit for House or Senate time). If they only serve one term then they should only get 25%. This will take some of the greed out of the system and make them work for us and not for themselves. If they have to work for it they'll llisten or people who really care will replace them.
They need to have financial planners in their staff as well to assist with creating a budget and passing it on time. Pay them the standard gov't employee rate for their work and make them change the law that states they must vote to not get a pay raise. Until the common man/woman who loves this country and not the money he/she can make can walk into Congress and do the job for all of us and not their pocketbooks we're all screwed.
Vote your true feeling not your party this election and let's see where the masses really feel this country should go. If you're tired of taking the hard road get out and help make the road easier. Vote or support someone who really will do what they feel is right for all of us.
"God Bless us every one"
Aim High
J Kennedy, USAF Retired 20 years 7 months
I am Retired Navy. I am very thankful for the benefits that I do have. I am also smart enough to know that nothing was ever PROMISED. Nothing in writing saying that my healthcare would be free. Yes, the recruiter talked it up, but I was well aware that things change. I feel extremely fortunate to have what I have and I look around at the millions of Americans that have lost jobs and have absolutely nothing……nadda. I pay a measly $460 a year for my entire family for the year. Ask Joe the eletrician what he has to pay monthly for far less care than what we get. I can tell you he pays much more than $460 per month. One of the problems of this country is that we can not keep up with what we spend out and cuts or increase in revenue have to happen. I will gladly pay the extra $60 a year for our benefits. Some of you blow more than $60 a month just in drinks at the VFW. I did my time, stood my watch and served our county and would do it all over again for even less.
Easy way to balance the budge is to stop paying members of Congress and the Senate from the Federal Budget. They are elected officials of this districts they represent in their State and thats where thelr salaries should come from. Why are my federal tax dollars paying for a congressman/woman salary for a state that doesn't even represent me. Also lets make their salaries not guaranteed but performanced based. You then eliminate these congressmen that have been in for 30 years or more. They have no problem voting for their raises and they get the best medial and retirement plans at no cost to them. Still they say they serve their country when its the peopls of thier state that elect them. Let their state pay their salaries and our money issues go away and the fedral budget will balance out quite quickly.
Looks like no COLA for life!!! I suppose Representative Weiner will receive full pay for the rest of his life though!! Absure and just plain WRONG!!!!!
Like it was said earlier, let vote in 2012. Our vote is the only thing that count and if we vote out those senators and congressman that made these broken promises, just may they will start treating us better. Why don't they vote to give themselves the same kind of health care that they give us, after all they are not out there running, jumping, dodging and rucking to keep this country and others countries safe. Vote! Vote! Vote and let your voice be heard.
My bro-in-law was also denied because his retirement income is too high, and he has cancer and NO insurance! I'm having trouble wrapping my brain around that! His wife who is healthy (also a vet) can get treatmenet but he can't. What's up with that?! My husband (Viet Nam vet) went there for a physical and got a bill for $50.00! He can only get free treatment if the
condition is on the approved "agent orange" list. Not what he was told when he stayed in the Air Force for 33 years!
Listen people, I have written this before and it seems to fall on deaf ears! As a military retiree there is only one way I see to fix the issue and not take any additional funds from the ones who did the most.
Any persons using the military medical system for free (active duty families, military single parents, and even single persons) that overburden the system by making constant trips to the emergency room, sick call, extended stays in hospitals etc need to be charged a co-payment for their inconsiderate behavior. This alone would make them think twice about what and when they should seek medical care. (ie, 1st child born [free], 2nd 25% of cost, 3rd 50% of cost, 4th and above 100%). As we were told when we joined "we didn't tell you to have a family" (1989).
Let's just do this right and stop taking all of the little bit we have left!!!!!!
Hey up there in Washington! We get a VOTE remember? Maybe we should talk to most of those groups you talk about (veterans and retirees) the modest increase. Maybe we veterans and retirees should consider our vote to oust you bumbs.
I think the military should pay the men what they need. You should not cut their benefits, when you guys don’t have to pay anything for your family medical or anything else that you need.
Ladies and Gentlemen, I know this is a good way to vent our anger and release some stress. But the reality of it all is that there is nothing we can do about it. We always threaten that we will vote them out of office but then a newbie comes along and sees his personal benefit grow. We need to fire them all and start from scratch with a new system (whatever that may be). We can do all this griping and nothing will come of it. I am just preparing for the day when all hell breaks lose (our own civil war) and then we are back to square one. I am a retired Army Sergeant First Class. Go Veterans
You want to save money on the deficit????? Then start with all the illegal aliens in this country that we are giving free benefits to. Stop giving them the power to stay in our country because they are here illegally and get to lay up, have babies (that we pay for because they have no money) and then the baby becomes a legal resident. Deport them and fine all the employers that hire these illegal aliens because they are “cheap” labor. Make the employers that hire illegal aliens pay the government unemployed benefits to the government for every person who can’t get get the job that the illegal alien has. That will save a bunch on the deficit. Next, STOP welfare for all these able bodied, lazy folks out there who want to continue getting government assistant and will continue to have more babies out of wedlock to continue getting these benefits. Make them get a job. Before the slinging starts, let me say that I am a African American woman who has served 20 years in the military. Most importantly, for all the so-called congressman that voted on this madness, let’s vote their butts out of office and cut their pay and see how they like it. It is a shame that we had to fight in battle just to turn around and fight for what we have earned. When they talk about retirement age , when are we suppose to know when that is and by who’s calculation????? Even though this plea will fall on deaf ears, I will say it anyway. To all our congressman that had all the fancy speeches to get elected, try keeping the empty promises you made when you said you had our best interest at heart. If this is what you call our best interest I would hate to see what you will do in the future.
This is our fault. We have allowed governemnt to spend without caring for how much this country goes into the red. We tend to remain quite as a people until the crap hits our front door step. Well its its here and it stinks. Now what will we do. According to our elected officals we must pull together as a nation and take this. We are promissed change and open door policy by every elected offical when he is running for offcie. We raily and say yes to the man we like then get a deer in the headlight look on our face when we find out that its business conducted in the same as always. The only recourse as I see it is as follows.
1. Insits that congress remove the statement that they put on every bill that they and memebrs of their staff are exempt from the law. If they passs a law lets make sure that they have to live with it also.
2. Lets start with Congress spending pratices and see where we can trim the fat.
3. Term limits on every house and Sentate seat. There is to much power on the hill by too few people. When President Rosevelt was elected to his 3rd term congress said hold on. The president has more power than us. We need to limit his time in office. That should tell us something.
4. Ask your senator or Congressman why they can't do there job and pass a budget on time. What are they about 400 days late with this one.
These are a few things that float to the top. Congress wants use divided as a voting people. The only real way change will occurr on the hill is in the voting box. You can say what you want about the tea party. But after the last electon they are now listened too. Change is hard and long. Congress is doing what they do best reacting not acting on the budget problems. Like all vets we tend to look at the world in black and white truth or lie. Congress lives in the world of gray and we as a nation allow it. Congrees and the President poromissed afforadable medical care. Have we as a peopel asked them what in there mind is affordable? I retired as an E-8 with 22 years in 1995 Like most I still work and pay for tricare and medicare (for my future) so does my wife. It represents about 10% of my post taxed income. Thats a pretty good slice of the pie. I would like congres to speak in numbers that relate to how I look at my families budget.
FOLKS! FOLKS! Pee and moan all you want. It don't do any good. What can you do???? The national elections is 2012! Change that what you can. Other elections of your "friendly, crooked, self-serving politicians" happen during "off years" When they come home and hold "TOWN HALL MEETINGS"… HOLD THEIR FEET TO THE FIRE! Term limits, and no free "bennies" for retiring politicians. What's good for the we the "masses", is damn sure good for the "
Purfumed Princes" in Congress and the Pentagon.
I am a pretty "slow " kind of fellow. I just do not understand how an income tax increase from my retirement along with no COLA for a second year and now an increase in my insurance is really helping my country. Something MUST change. I too agree that NO elected official in senate, congress, state, should get a cent when voted out of office. Nor do I feel we as tax payers should foot the bill for their protection services either. These are the same people that are going to do away with our Social Security Benifits also by increasing medicare so much that the cost will be too great for a comon person to afford.
They cut the cost of living for disabled veterans and Social Security for two years, but even when it was allowed they only look at 3 months of a year (July to Sept.) to determin if any COLA increase is needed instead of a full year. Retirees are included in that.
It does not matter what political party is in charge they both pick on the veterans and retirees. It is no longer a political party issue, but a rich versus poor issue. Everyone knows that the rich control the country and they are not suffering in the least. Everyone in the US senate is a millionare and most of the House of Represenatives are in the upper income group if not millionares.
History has shown that when it is down to rich vs. poor the end of freedom and that country are not far off. America as we know it can not last much longer.
It is no wonder that many enlisted retirees choose to retire overseas in countries where the cost of living is cheaper. It is a true shame that the people who fight for this country must go elsewhere to enjooy a good life style.
Since both political parties are the same until a new political party is formed there is no one to vote for.
This increase of TRICARE for retirees is going to make it difficult for veterans. Is congress thinking when you label this increase for working age veterans does that include the ones unemployed probably this does not help veterans.
Just picked up a prescription at local pharacy on 10/5/11 that had cost $3 tricare co-pay but it now costs $5. That is an increase of 66.5%….not modest…not tied to any COLA increase…remember those.Yet we are told that there is very little inflation so there will be no or a small 2012 COLA or it will be fully offset by Medicare Part B increases.
This patticular prescription is probably about $25 or so retail so I will take thois one and all my other prescriptions to local AF base pharmacy where iI can get it at no cost to me…but now the military pays full cost of prescription and with no co-pay help from me. But I have offset the 66.5% increase for this item in my life and have offset the cost of living increase in my medication costs. The local grocery pharamcy also lost the business $$$ and the item/s I might have bought while I was there.
So as a result, the military pays 100% for the four prescriptions ( close to $100 a month) and the local store loses my business. Who is better off with the increase…..probably me.