Join the Army and receive a downpayment to buy a house (new recruiting technique)

[LynneSin]

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080214/ap_on_re_us/army_recruiting_2;_ylt=AgAHWSL32QONyyvr2hNQgUUE1vAI

Join the Army, buy a house? By MICHAEL HILL, Associated Press Writer
2 hours, 31 minutes ago



ALBANY, N.Y. - How's this for a recruiting slogan? Join the Army, Buy a House. Faced with the challenge of expanding the U.S. Army in wartime, the military is testing an incentive program that pays enlistees up to $40,000 toward a home or a startup business after their commitment. The Army Advantage Fund program is being tested here and four other areas — Montgomery, Ala., Cleveland, Seattle and San Antonio — for the next six to nine months.


Lt. Gen. Benjamin Freakley, who was in Albany Wednesday promoting the pilot program, said it will help the Army compete for high school graduates and recognize soldiers in a time of conflict.

"The Army Advantage Fund will ensure that the quality of life of our soldiers and their families equals the substantial quality of service that they give to the nation," said Freakley, who is responsible for recruiting.

Under the program begun Feb. 4, enlistees who commit to five years of active service are eligible for $40,000, while reservists can receive $20,000 for five years. Lesser cash incentives are being offered for three- and four-year enlistments.

[NC_Nurse]

1. To leave to your family?

Will they make the payments too?

[flashl]

2. Interesting solution for the housing surplus inventory. nt

[MountainLaurel]

3. Since the truth is out about the G.I Bill

And what a sham it is these days, I guess they have to try something else.

[Zywiec]

4. I only got $3000 in 1987 !!!

I was only 18 and thought that was HUGE.

Now getting $40,000 is unbelievable. I can see a lot of people jumping at this.

I also received all of my promised college money and used it for my undergraduate degree years after leaving active-duty.

[Arctic Dave]

5. yeah right

We'll give you 40,000 for a house but if you need medical help all you you'll get is a middle finger. Priorities people, priorities.

[Postman]

6. Join the Army, get a cemetery plot.....

n/t