The House and Senate Armed Services Committees have spoken, and there's good news in store for service members' paychecks. Both chambers have endorsed defense authorization bills that 

Let's break down what this means for you and your family.

The proposed pay increase appears in both the House and Senate versions of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The Senate Armed Services Committee approved their version last week, while the House committee is scheduled to mark up their draft within the next week.

This 3.8% figure reflects the statutory formula that connects military pay adjustments to anticipated wage growth in the private sector. The increase also mirrors the Trump administration's budget request for the upcoming fiscal year.

The pay raise comes as part of broader military expansion plans, with lawmakers supporting efforts to add approximately 26,000 service members across all branches, particularly within 

While 3.8% represents a meaningful increase, it's worth noting how it stacks up against recent pay adjustments.

In January 2025, most service members received a 4.5% pay increase. Junior enlisted personnel (E-1 through E-4) 

 as Congress addressed financial challenges facing entry-level troops.

Military pay has grown by no less than 2% annually since 2017, maintaining an unbroken streak of yearly increases dating back to the 1970s.

Despite being a smaller percentage than last year, this raise delivers substantial value to service members.

The 3.8% adjustment translates to tangible increases across all pay grades:

 Approximately $1,200 in additional annual income

Military compensation has generally outpaced inflation in recent years, helping maintain and improve purchasing power for service families.

This pay raise becomes even more valuable when considering economic projections for the coming year.

Inflation data shows consumer prices have moderated recently, with economists forecasting rates

 However, trade policy changes are expected to create upward pressure on prices.

Major retailers have issued warnings about potential cost increases tied to new import tariffs. Economic analysts anticipate these trade-related price pressures will become more pronounced during the summer and fall months, potentially extending through year-end.

Your 3.8% pay increase helps protect against both standard inflation and these policy-driven cost increases, providing important financial stability during uncertain economic times.

The defense authorization bill requires approval from the full House and Senate before 

. Congressional leaders plan to negotiate final bill language throughout the summer months.

Historically, military pay raises enjoy strong support from both parties and face minimal opposition during the legislative process.

While this upcoming year's 3.8% may appear modest compared to 2025's increase, it demonstrates ongoing congressional commitment to competitive military compensation. When combined with continued investments in housing, childcare, and other family support programs, this military pay raise represents 

another step toward ensuring service members can concentrate on their duties without financial stress

Stay tuned for developments as the legislation progresses through Congress this fall. 

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Have you ever heard the term that a place is, “as hard to enter as Fort Knox”? If you have, it was likely for good reason. Fort Knox, Kentucky, is one of the most iconic and secure military installations in the United States. 

Best known for housing the U.S. Bullion Depository—a vault that holds a significant portion of the nation's gold reserves, Fort Knox has a rich military history and strategic importance. 

From serving as a training ground for armored divisions to symbolizing national strength and security, Fort Knox captures the imagination of the public while remaining shrouded in secrecy. 

Read on for more information on this fascinating legacy and functions surrounding this heavily guarded historical American landmark.

Fort Knox, Kentucky, is a 109,000-acre military base that encompasses the United States federal gold reserve and the Fort Knox Human Resource Center of Excellence.

The resource hub is a complex that houses ~4,000 civilian and military personnel. This makes it the 6th largest urban community in its Commonwealth.

It’s snuggled 30 miles south of Kentucky’s largest and busiest city of Louisville and just north of the historic Elizabethtown. What makes this base so famous is the 

, otherwise known as the impenetrable vault of Fort Knox.

The installation as a whole plays a vital and central role in the nation's military, leading the charge for training, recruiting, and support operations across the U.S.

Fort Knox has a rich and complex history that dates back to the early 20th century. 

Originally established in 1918 as Camp Knox, the base is named after Major General Henry Knox, the first U.S. Secretary of War. 

It was initially created as an artillery training center during World War I, but the camp was deactivated shortly after the war and reestablished as a permanent military post in 1932 and designated Fort Knox in 1936.

During the 1930s, Fort Knox gained national prominence with the construction of the U.S. Bullion Depository, completed in 1936. The depository was built to store the nation's gold reserves, which were being moved from New York and Philadelphia as a precaution during the Great Depression and the rising tensions in Europe.

During World War II, Fort Knox became a critical training center for armored warfare, home to the U.S. Army Armor Center and School. For decades, it played a key role in developing the Army’s tank and cavalry tactics. 

Although the Armor School moved to Fort Benning, Georgia, in 2011, Fort Knox remains an important Army post and is currently home to several commands, including U.S. Army Cadet Command and U.S. Army Human Resources Command.

Today, Fort Knox is recognized not only for its historical and military significance but also as a symbol of American strength and security.

Who Has the Authority to Enter Fort Knox?

Curious what’s inside Fort Knox, and who has the authority to enter? You’re not the only one! 

Historically, the base has been off-limits to visitors, and even the president of the United States has limitations to entry.

The inner structures are undisclosed, but we can tell you that the building is made up of over 16,000 cubic feet of granite, 4,200 cubic yards of concrete, 750 tons of reinforced steel, and 670 tons of structural steel.

Base access has been revised many times over time. Check out what the U.S. Army has to say regarding 

The building’s integrity is unimaginable, yet even greater security measures are in place. Surrounding its exterior are two separate electric fences bounded by another thick concrete barrier.

Searchlights lie above the innermost fence, and the security, which costs the government $5 million per year, is far from sparse.

It’s safe to say you’re not likely to stop in for a peek, but visitors are allowed to stand outside the gate of Fort Knox and take pictures. In searching for pictures inside Fort Knox’s vault, you’ll unfortunately discover many misleading photos of European bank vaults.

There are, however, a few confirmed photographs and videos (like the one below) circling the web, like the 1974 photo of former Mint Director Mary Brooks inside Fort Knox’s gold vault. If you're hoping for an opportunity like this, however, don't keep those hopes up.

You'll probably never see or touch Fort Knox gold in your life. In fact, Fort Knox gold bars are rarely moved out of the facility. The only time they're taken out is to test the purity of the bars. However, it's been many years since any gold in Fort Knox has been transferred.

Lawmakers Push for Comprehensive Audit of Fort Knox Gold

As of recent reports, Fort Knox holds around 147.3 million troy ounces of gold (approximately 4,582 metric tons), which accounts for over half of the U.S. government's total gold reserves

There have been repeated calls by politicians and transparency advocates for an independent, full-scale audi

 of the Fort Knox gold, including verification by outside parties.

However, while Fort Knox has undergone internal audits and inspections, there has never been a fully independent, comprehensive public audit of the entire gold reserve stored there. 

The secrecy and limited access have fueled skepticism and rumors, even as official sources continue to affirm the integrity and presence of the nation’s gold stockpile.

The extensive security is not simply for decoration. As mentioned above, Fort Knox still serves its original purpose, holding roughly 147.3 million ounces of gold, which is just over half of the U.S. Treasury’s stored bullion.

If you’re wondering how many U.S. dollars that translates to today, it’s almost $300 billion. At its highest hold holdings historically, it contained 649.6 million ounces in December of 1941. That's not too long after the very first pieces of gold arrived at the facility in 1937.

 The first gold in Fort Knox wasn't brought by a super-secret caravan; it was delivered by train through U.S. Mail.

One gold bar inside of Fort Knox weighs 27.5 pounds, 

, is 7 inches long and 3.5 inches wide. The front door to the vault weighs over 20 tons, and it is said that no one person knows its combination. 

Speculation of trip wires, landmines, and a satellite defense system has grown over the years but has never been confirmed. Still, the ultimate safe is protected by 27 inches of thick concrete and steel and is known to be able to withstand an atomic bomb.

5 Things You Probably Never Knew About Fort Knox

 With a population of at least 26,000, Fort Knox is actually considered its own city.

The locks for the vault door to enter the base change daily. The vault door itself weighs over 20 tons.

Fort Knox is guarded and protected by the U.S. Mint Police, one of the oldest federal law enforcement agencies which was established in 1792.

 Franklin Deleanor Roosevelt is the only U.S. President to ever set food inside.

The base also houses two elementary schools, a middle school, and a high school.

The U.S. government has made use of Fort Knox’s tight defenses for more than just gold. The Constitution, Bill of Rights, and Declaration of Independence were all collected and stored inside Fort Knox for safety during WW2.

Aside from a select few honored journalists and elected officials, the general public may never see the inside of Fort Knox for themselves. Fortunately, for those stationed on or around the base, however, there are still 

 to keep morale and pride alive and well. 

So, while the inner workings of the base are kept secret, the mysteries of Fort Knox will certainly continue to live on.

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When the floodwaters swallowed Kerr County over the Fourth of July weekend, help came from the sky.

Nearly 200 people were stranded—many of them children—after the Guadalupe River surged 26 feet, swallowing roads and wrecking Camp Mystic, a beloved girls summer camp in the Texas Hill Country. 

Communication lines were down. Panic was setting in. Then came 

The four-person Coast Guard crew, stationed 150 miles away in Corpus Christi, answered the call before sunrise. Their mission: reach the devastated flood zone, assess the scene, and begin evacuations—fast.

Before they could even take off, flight mechanic Petty Officer 3rd Class Seth Reeves spotted a serious mechanical issue on their helicopter. With no time to spare, Reeves immediately prepped a second aircraft—an HC-65E Dolphin—and the crew launched into dangerous weather.

Visibility was near zero. Lt. Ian Hopper, the aircraft commander, flew by instruments alone after three failed attempts to reach their destination. Once over Camp Mystic, it was clear: no one else had made it in. 

On the ground, rescue swimmer Petty Officer 3rd Class Scott Ruskan stepped into the chaos.

For the next three hours, Ruskan triaged the crowd—most of them frightened children—counting heads, assessing needs, and loading them onto helicopters bound for safety.

“I had about 200 people, kids mostly, all scared, terrified, cold, and having the worst day of their life,” Ruskan told 

. “I just kind of needed to triage them and get them to a higher level of care.”

While Ruskan worked below, co-pilot Lt. Blair Ogujiofor was above, orchestrating a complex and risky air operation. In severely limited visibility, he guided over a dozen helicopters into and out of the flood zone, ensuring each one avoided collision in the crowded airspace.

Thanks to the precision and composure of the crew, nearly 200 people were evacuated. Rescue 6553 personally rescued 18, but their leadership enabled the larger effort to succeed.

On July 11, the crew was formally recognized for their actions.

Lt. Hopper and Petty Officer Ruskan were awarded the 

—one of the highest decorations for heroism in military aviation. 

Established by Congress in 1926, the Distinguished Flying Cross is awarded by the President of the United States (or, more typically in practice, by military department secretaries on the President’s behalf) for "heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight." It is the fourth-highest award for valor that can be given to a member of the U.S. military.

Lt. Ogujiofor and Petty Officer Reeves were awarded the 

, a prestigious decoration also established in 1942 by executive order, presented for single acts of meritorious achievement or heroism in aerial flight. 

Both medals are awarded through the Department of Homeland Security for members of the U.S. Coast Guard.

The awards were presented by Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem during a 

“In the face of devastating floods in Texas, this Coast Guard aircrew’s courageous actions saved lives and reaffirmed our vital role in protecting American communities,” said Adm. Kevin Lunday, acting commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard.

For the crew of Rescue 6553, the mission was never about medals.

It was about calming the voices of terrified children, answering the urgency of rising floodwaters, and relying on the trust each crew member had in one another to do their part—and do it fast.

Search and rescue efforts continue across Texas. Dozens remain missing. But thanks to the courage and precision of one Coast Guard crew, nearly 200 families were spared unimaginable loss.

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The military is bringing significantly more domestic violence cases against service members to court in 2025. This shift comes in light of recent reforms that were implemented in 2023. This shift is also seen in tandem with the surge in conviction rates, which is cited as being tied to a major overhaul that is taking place, changing how serious crimes are prosecuted in the ranks.

This overhaul comes after years of advocacy by Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, who has been focused on investigating how the military handles domestic violence and sexual assault crimes. With bipartisan support,

—part of the Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act—stripped prosecutorial authority for major crimes from commanders and placed it in the hands of the 

Now, 17 months into implementation, the data is showing that the legislation is working. “Protecting service members, holding perpetrators accountable, and getting justice for survivors is critical to rebuild trust in the military justice system,” Gillibrand said in a statement last month.

Before these reforms, many domestic violence cases were dismissed, ignored, or quietly handled within the chain of command—often leading to insufficient action, particularly when senior ranks were involved.

Now, the new legislation has changed this reality.

Military court data confirms that domestic violence convictions have more than doubled across every branch. 

, for example, jumped from 43 convictions in 2021 to 101 in 2024. The Navy saw a more than fivefold increase. The Air Force more than doubled its convictions, while the Marine Corps’ numbers show a steady upward trend.

Now, for the first time, higher-ranking service members are being held to account in meaningful numbers—a clear departure from previous trends that disproportionately punished junior enlisted personnel.

reported over 8,300 incidents of domestic abuse, 14 of which were fatal. That same year, the military issued only 69 domestic violence convictions.

Such numbers raised much alarm, highlighting underreporting, and a mistrust in the system which placed survivors at continued risk—especially in cases where the abuser held financial, professional, or rank-based leverage.

Stories like that of Kate Ranta—a civilian survivor of domestic violence by her Air Force major ex-husband—underscore the stakes. Her former spouse was allowed to quietly retire despite substantiated abuse findings. A year later, he returned and shot both her and her father in front of her young son.

“The lethality that eventually happened... could absolutely have been avoided,” Ranta said in a recent interview. 

, and countless others, called advocacy groups and lawmakers to act.

The crux of Gillibrand’s reform was clear: commanders, who are not trained legal professionals and are often closely linked to the accused, should not have the power to decide whether to prosecute serious crimes.

Now, independent military prosecutors—legal experts outside the traditional chain of command— will evaluate and prosecute domestic violence, sexual assault, murder, and other major offenses. This new model brings objectivity, legal rigor, and survivor-centered processes to cases that were once vulnerable to bias or quiet dismissal.

, the reforms are not only helping victims see justice but are also restoring faith in a system that had long favored protection of the institution over protection of the individual.

“There’s all sorts of conflicts embedded in a system where a non-legal expert in the chain of command is making decisions,” said Josh Connolly, a senior leader at the organization.

Despite this progress, many advocates are highlighting the gaps that remain. Thousands of domestic violence incidents each year still never reach trial. Survivors continue to face barriers—from fear of retaliation to limited access to resources—especially those stationed overseas or financially dependent on their abusers.

In light of this, advocates are stressing the need for continued oversight, survivor support services, and cultural change within the military community.

Gillibrand agrees explaining, “While there is more work to be done to end the scourge of sexual and domestic violence within the armed services, these reforms are a turning point. We will keep pushing for accountability.”

If you or someone you know is experiencing military-connected domestic violence,

available. The number to call is - 1.800.799.SAFE (7233).

 Defense Department’s Family Advocacy Program

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Less than a month after President Trump ordered federalized National Guard Troops and active duty Marines to

 enforcement stepping up arrests and detainments of undocumented immigrants in Los Angeles, the next major deployment of troops on American soil has seemingly begun. And this time it’s in support of an ongoing Florida ICE operation. On July 3rd, 

 (USNORTHCOM) announced that approximately 200 personnel from 

 (MWSS-272) out of Marine Corps Air Station New River in North Carolina will 

 to, “ augment U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) interior immigration enforcement mission with critical administrative and logistical capabilities at locations as directed by ICE.”

What Unit is Headed to Support the Florida ICE Operation?

These 200 Marines are part of the 700 military personnel slated to provide logistical support to ongoing immigration related operations in response to a request the Department of Homeland Security issued back in May.

Details about further troop deployments are currently unknown other than some are expected to be sent to Louisiana and Texas in addition to those participating in ICE operations in Florida.

The exact role(s) the Marines from MWSS-272 will play also remain unknown to the public, and it’s not known if any or all of them have arrived in the Sunshine State yet.

 (2nd MAW), exists to provide all manner of Aviation Ground Support to air units such as operating airfields, providing security, refueling aircraft, firefighting, operating field mess facilities, and much more.

So, the troops headed to Florida will likely have a wide range of skills they can employ to assist ICE operations. Additionally, some have 

speculated that they will assist in setting up and/or staffing

 the new, already infamous ICE detention facility in the Everglades (

), but officials have yet to confirm either way.

Marines Will Also be Headed to ICE Detention Facilities in Louisiana

While Marines in the “first wave” will largely be sent to Florida, there will be support locations in Louisiana and Texas, according to the government.

According to the Defense Department, Marines will not be allowed to have direct contact with people in ICE custody, nor will they take any part in the process of detaining people.

Louisiana has nine detention facilities that house immigrants. This includes:

Central Louisiana ICE Processing Center in Jena

South Louisiana ICE Processing Center in Basile

Jackson Parish Correctional Center in Jonesboro

Pine Prairie ICE Processing Center in Pine Prairie

Allen Parish Public Safety Complex in Oberlin

Alexandria Staging Facility in Alexandria

Since Trump took office in January, his administration has since tasked thousands of troops with immigration enforcement, including deportation flights, barrier wall repairs, and patrols along the Mexico-US border.

The marine Corps has partnered with ICE at its own installations. The intent is to prevent foreign nations from unlawfully entering the base.

This effort previously involved the arrest of a woman at Marine Corps Base Hawaii in June of this year.

This may be the second such deployment of American troops on their own soil, but it will not be the last.

As USNORTHCOM’s own press release says, this operation in support of the Florida ICE operation is merely the “first wave.” Granted, the release specifically states that such servicemembers’ “roles will focus on administrative and logistical tasks, and they are specifically prohibited from direct contact with individuals in ICE custody or involvement in any aspect of the custody chain.”

But this deployment and the ones that follow will surely fuel further debate over the use of the 

military in support of law enforcement operations

The military community is made up of service members, Veterans, and their families—each experiencing unique challenges and making significant sacrifices. While many civilians are deeply grateful, it can often feel overwhelming to move beyond simply saying, "Thank you for your service."

But meaningful support doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, some of the most impactful ways to support the military happen on an individual level. Whether you’re looking to support a neighbor in uniform or advocate for national policies that benefit Veterans, here are clear, actionable tips to help you get started.

4 Ways Civilians Can Support the Military Community

Showing military families support is about much more than just saying 'thank you.' It's about gaining an understanding of the challenges that they face, and offering help in meaningful ways. 

The emotional strain of long deployments, the constant uprooting, and the isolation that comes with these changes are rarely fully understood. However, civilian supporters have the power to change this.

Civilians are the lifeline that help military communities connect and thrive. As civilians, there are many things that you can do to show the military community your appreciation. Below, we are sharing four tips that civilians can use to start showing their support.

Tip #1: Invite Military Families into Your Community

Tip: Create a welcoming environment for military families near you.

If you live near a military base, or in a town that frequently welcomes new residents, you’re likely to cross paths with military families. 

Relocating often—sometimes every two to three years—is part of the military lifestyle. That means military families are constantly navigating new schools, unfamiliar neighborhoods, and the challenge of building friendships from scratch.

If a military family moves in, try to find a way to invite them over for dinner, or simply swing by and say hello. It can be intimidating to move to a new place, and being welcomed by a friendly face can make a place feel like home.

When we moved to Los Angeles in 2014, our neighbors were quick to come by and say hello and welcome us to the neighborhood. While we had met our neighbors over the years, we lived in Ohio we had never felt so welcome so quickly. It was a special place that still held neighborhood events throughout the year, and being welcomed into our new home was special.

For our first assignment we moved to Alamogordo, New Mexico in 2007. The internet wasn’t the powerhouse of search results that it is today. And instead, we relied on the guidance and support of what at the time were strangers that we had been connected with by one of my co-workers in California.

They helped us figure out where to live and understand the lay of our new town. They also regularly invited us to dinner, often a home cooked meal. We even spent our first Thanksgiving in New Mexico with their family. Welcomed with open arms into a place that we didn’t really fit into. But they made space at the table for us. And we felt welcomed and loved.

Tip: Volunteer your time or resources to groups doing the groundwork.

Even if you don’t live in a place where current military members reside, there likely are Veterans living in your community. Find out if there is a Veteran organization within your town, and if there is a way you can support the organization either as a volunteer or by attending events so you can meet Veterans.

Additionally, you can attend local Veterans events to show your support, can volunteer for community drives, service projects, or ceremonies, or even donate to causes that align with your interests—housing, employment, mental health, etc.

Below is a list of some organizations that you’ll want to keep an eye out for:

 – Builds community through fitness and connection.

 – Offers support, camaraderie, and advocacy for Veterans.

 – Supports active-duty members and their families.

 – Transports Veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit memorials.

Tip #3: Help Support Military Legislation

Tip: Use your voice to shape the future for service members and Veterans.

Behind every benefit or service available to the military community is legislation. Congress plays a pivotal role in determining healthcare, housing, education, and retirement benefits for both active-duty personnel and Veterans.

One way to get involved is by finding out if there is legislation under review near you that is affecting the military community. You can get legislative updates from the 

, can contact your representatives about key military or Veterans issues, and lastly can support national groups that work to influence policy all year-round. 

Some organizations that you might want to follow include: Veterans of Foreign Wars, Military Officers Association of America, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Disabled American Veterans, and American Veterans.

Tip #4: Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions

Tip: Learn more about the military experience through respectful conversation.

Asking questions is the best way to learn about someone’s experience. But it can feel scary. Maybe you don't understand military terms, or don’t want to offend someone by saying the wrong thing.

Maybe you don’t even know where to start. These are all valid concerns, but it’s okay to start by asking questions.

It is complicated, and service members and Veterans know this. They don’t expect someone who never served to know the terminology of the military. But, knowing that you are interested in my experience as a Veteran, and the challenges my family faces, goes a long way to feeling supported.

When thinking about ways to engage in conversation thoughtfully, consider the following:

 and let individuals share on their terms.

Don’t worry about not knowing military jargon

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