Congress and the President were not able to come to agreement on the Defense Spending Bill. As a result the version currently on the way to the President's desk will be vetoed. While I am not going to discuss the merits of the bill or the inability to pass an appropriate and much needed funding bill, I AM interested in the fallout from this situation.

One such fallout is the impact on the individual service member and their family. The announced (and anticipated) 3.5% raise will not be seen in our February 1st pay. Rather we will receive only 3.0% (last year's raise). All bonuses are also on hold...that includes enlistment bonuses, re-enlistment bonuses and special incentive bonuses such as medical, nuclear, flight, etc.

I have my opinion...but what is your opinion? Is congress playing using the military/spending bill as a political pawn for their advantage? Is the President the guilty party? Perhaps it's both.

How will this impact your family? Is your service member up for re-enlistment? Will this impact your decision to re-enlist? Will you postpone re-enlistment to insure payment of bonuses?

In your opinion does this situation affect morale? If so, how?

Let me ask another question...does this impact your vote in the upcoming elections? Are you motivated to voice your opinion to your elected officials?

What is your opinion...I'm listening...