Civilian Professional | Army Officer | |
| Vacation | 2-3 weeks per year | 30 days per year |
| Sick Days | Limited | Unlimited with full pay and allowances |
| Medical/Dental | Some or all at own expense | FREE |
| Retirement | Social Security at age 62 and own retirement plan | Can retire after 20 years active service |
| Pay Raises | Determined by employer | Automatic raises every 2 years |
| Shopping | Civilian stores | Reduced prices and tax-free at base exchange and commissary |
| Life Insurance | At own expense | $500,000 term policy for around $18 per month |
| Job Security | Depends on job | America will always need Officers in the Army |
| Salary | Depends on your major and career path. Jobs are also hard to find these days for recent graduates. | Active Duty Second Lieutenants start at $60,000
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