In testimony, National Guard Generals fight to expand GI Bill for reservists

Two state adjutants general told a House subcommittee they support substantial improvements to National Guard and reserve GI Bill benefits even though the Bush administration and Defense Department do not.

In testimony before the economic opportunity subcommittee of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Arkansas Adjutant General Maj. Gen. William Wofford said education benefits are the primary reason people enlist in the Arkansas National Guard. The benefits are “an integral part of our efforts to maintain a viable force to meet mission requirements,” he said.

Current rules for using benefits seem unfair, Wofford said. “Our active-component counterparts are able to continue their GI Bill benefits after they are discharged from active service. Guard and Reserve members are only able to utilize GI Bill benefits while an active member of the Guard or reserve,” he said. “Regardless of the number of years of service and regardless of the number of times a Guard or reserve member has been placed in harm’s way in service to their country, they are not eligible for GI Bill benefits following their discharge.

Read the rest at the Marine Corps Times

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