Still Fighting
With national leaders suggesting that military retirees cost more than they’re worth, MOAA needs its members on the front lines again — and you can’t retire from that.
By Vice Adm. Norbert R. Ryan Jr., USN-Ret.

The semi-annual retirement issue of Military Officer, which helps people plan their futures, seems the appropriate venue to address your future — whether you’re still working or in the fully retired category.

As I write, our country is fighting the war on terrorism. Unlike past wars, however, in this one the only people making sacrifices seem to be those military and federal civilian personnel who are involved with prosecuting the war itself, and their families.

Since the beginning of this war, military and civilian leaders have stated repeatedly that citizens should serve their country in uniform. Some of these leaders — including a few in uniform — also have said, in essence, that veterans and retirees cost the government more than they’re worth. Some examples:

“Veterans’ benefits ... if not reined in, will affect [DoD’s] future ability to compensate those serving.” — Secretary of defense, May 2004

“[Retiree benefit costs] have gotten to the point where they are hurtful. They are taking away from the nation’s ability to defend itself.” — Undersecretary of defense (Personnel and Readiness), January 2005

“Spending on military dependents and retirees offers ‘no military value.’ ” — U.S. representative from Illinois, March 2005

“Unless health costs are curbed, they will consume a larger and larger share of defense budgets, impacting weapons and other readiness programs.” — Assistant secretary of defense (Health Affairs), June 2005

“The current compensation system is outdated, inefficient, and weighted too heavily toward ‘deferred compensation’ such as retirement and health care.” — Member of the Defense Advisory Committee on Military Compensation (DACMC), June 2005

And one DACMC member, speaking about military retirement, said the committee “needs to look at private-sector models that delay ‘full’ annuity until age 60 and give a ‘haircut’ to anyone who elects to retire earlier.”

As you move into the next phase of your life or enjoy the current one, you cannot rest and depend upon “the system” to continue to recognize the full value of your service and sacrifices. If you’re retired or soon to assume that status, it’s even more important to have MOAA with you, to get and stay involved, and to join a local chapter. If you (and MOAA) don’t speak up about the unique demands, sacrifices, and dedication inherent in a military career, no one else is going to do it for you.