Two members of the Arkansas delegation have submitted legislation to “make adequate and equitable benefits” for reservists under the Montgomery GI Bill, according to a joint statement. Sen. Blanche Lincoln (D-Ark.) and Rep. Vic Snyder (D-Ark.) say that despite the “increased reliance” on reservists since 9/11, the value of their standard MGIB benefits “has fallen over the last 20 years from 47 percent to 29 percent of active duty benefits.” The Total Force GI Bill would consolidate active and reserve programs under one authority—Veterans Affairs—and ensure reserve benefits rise proportionally with active benefits, among other provisions. The Senate bill is S 644, and the House measure is HR 1102.
U.S. Air Force F-15C Eagles have roared out of Barnes Air National Guard Base, Mass., for the last time. The 104th Fighter Wing’s last three F-15Cs departed the base Oct. 23 for the “Boneyard” at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., ending the aircraft's era on the frontlines of homeland defense.
