Video: Looming Military Cuts Worry Service Members

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NORTHEAST Miss. (WCBI)- Brittany Hall is a senior at Mississippi State. She is also a soldier in the Army Reserve, one who is already seeing the effects of military cuts.

” I noticed at the beginning of the year that when students were able to get $4,500 worth for TA for school, now they cut that budget and students are only allotted 16 hours now, which for some people that’s like $2,000 so that’s a $2,500 cut from what they normally get,” said Hall.

With the Pentagon proposing big cuts, she worries that fewer benefits will prevent other young people from joining.

“A lot of people fight for their country but the benefits are the main reason, especially for students to come into the military in order to fight for their country. a lot fo students who were doing basic training before the budget cuts, found out when they got back they would not be able to receive those benefits that the military had already promised them. So it would be a big difference now,” said Hall.

Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel announced Monday a plan that would reduce the number of troops to its lowest level before World War II. The plan also calls for a reduction of military benefits.

” The reality of reduced resources and a challenging and changing strategic environment requires us to prioritize and make difficult choices,” said Hagel.

For Retired Lt. Colonol Ed Wallington, it’s a slap in the face for his dedicated service.

“It’s very disheartening. I was an enlisted man during the Korean War. And it makes me wonder why did I do all of that! Get shot up! All this kind of stuff, you know. Now we’re just throwing all of that away,” said Wallington.

The plan also eliminates the Air Force’s A-10 attack jets and U2 spy planes. Domestic bases may also be in jeopardy.

“If we consolidate bases, we would lose things like Columbus Air Force Base because their mission there it to train. Well if you don’t have people to train because you cut the forces, why keep the bases open,” said Wallington.

Wallington hopes Congress seriously considers the costs these military cuts will mean on our nation.

” It’s a big mistake. Freedom is not free. You gotta pay for it,” said Wallington.

Hagel’s changes will be part of the 2015 budget plan President Obama submits to congress.