#1 Question asked so far!
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Manage your money wisely and things like the Z06 are possible. Sounds like you are doing well.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 3,447
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From: Los Angeles
Defender
You an instructor out there at Vandy? I am EMT at Warren. I am a speech class away from CCAF but I already have a A.S. in electronic engineering proir to my enlistment. I have a big screen TV but its pay for. The family doesnt go out to eat and the credit cards are going to be gone in a year. I cut my cable down to the top 220 which is 49 a month from 120 for every channel available. That is most of my extra payment right there.
You an instructor out there at Vandy? I am EMT at Warren. I am a speech class away from CCAF but I already have a A.S. in electronic engineering proir to my enlistment. I have a big screen TV but its pay for. The family doesnt go out to eat and the credit cards are going to be gone in a year. I cut my cable down to the top 220 which is 49 a month from 120 for every channel available. That is most of my extra payment right there.
Badge/Beret all they way, rifleman by trade. I'll actually be heading up to Warren/Guernsey for predeployment training on 1 Dec. I was at FEW from 2000-2003... can't say I miss the winters 
Race Director
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 14,440
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From: MD
St. Jude Donor '11
WOW 398!!! I wish would have got that deal. I had a 350z 26k at 5.5% that I paid 436 for. The pay is pretty nice for me. I am just waiting to complete my IT degree and with a TS clearance = easy six figures. I am going to refinance in a year to lower payments to around 530. To clear some debt I went to a credit consuling place and that drug my score down a little. But it saved me a fortune.
This must be "I'm an Enlisted Guy With a Vette Day"...
. BTW, I hope you are not serious about the 6 figure job thing. Even with a TS it will take you 5-10 years to start earning 6 figures if you are a savy guy. About 2 1/2 years ago I was pondering separation from the Army and the very best offer I could get was around 85K working as a DoD contractor in NJ. That was with 12 years of extensive IT, commo and MI expierence AND a TS/SCI. 85K in NJ these days is marginal.In addition, do not let military life confuse you with civilian life. One thing the military always provides is a place to sleep, food to eat and a pay check. The corporate world doesn't provide unless you are at least executive VP status. Maybe if you are DoD. Keep in mind you will be starting over in the corporate world and you start at the bottom. However, looking at the posts of your debts, you might need to re-think things a little more. I've been in a lot longer than you and the only debt I've had in the past 12 years was a brand new Corvette. Take care and good luck.
Race Director
Joined: Jan 2003
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From: Houston, Tx Got traction?
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St. Jude Donor '07-'08
600 a month for a car payment?! That's almost my mortgage payment.
Congrat's on the toy!
Congrat's on the toy!
Last edited by Stangkiller; Nov 3, 2007 at 07:46 AM.
Race Director
Joined: Mar 2005
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From: MD
St. Jude Donor '11
Pro
Joined: Aug 2002
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From: Freeburg IL
Cruise-In IX Veteran
TSgt with a coupe here, it's all what you want to spend your money on. I have 2 kids so I waited till my accord was paid off then got a little something for daddy 
Also a TS-SCI guy with a CCAF in info tech
We are running a common thread here guys!
Also a TS-SCI guy with a CCAF in info tech
We are running a common thread here guys!
Last edited by JCSZ51; Nov 3, 2007 at 09:27 AM.
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No just a quick look at monster.com has jobs listed in Huntsville, Alabama (Closer to Home) with a TS is over 6 figures. I have had 5 years prior military IT experience. This is dealing with Lockheed and Boeing. I looked about 2 months back. My minor is in software systems engineering. 85K in ALABAMA would be Great is like making 6 anywhere else.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 1,159
Likes: 3
From: Florida
This must be "I'm an Enlisted Guy With a Vette Day"... . BTW, I hope you are not serious about the 6 figure job thing. Even with a TS it will take you 5-10 years to start earning 6 figures if you are a savy guy. About 2 1/2 years ago I was pondering separation from the Army and the very best offer I could get was around 85K working as a DoD contractor in NJ. That was with 12 years of extensive IT, commo and MI expierence AND a TS/SCI. 85K in NJ these days is marginal.
In addition, do not let military life confuse you with civilian life. One thing the military always provides is a place to sleep, food to eat and a pay check. The corporate world doesn't provide unless you are at least executive VP status. Maybe if you are DoD. Keep in mind you will be starting over in the corporate world and you start at the bottom. However, looking at the posts of your debts, you might need to re-think things a little more. I've been in a lot longer than you and the only debt I've had in the past 12 years was a brand new Corvette. Take care and good luck.
. BTW, I hope you are not serious about the 6 figure job thing. Even with a TS it will take you 5-10 years to start earning 6 figures if you are a savy guy. About 2 1/2 years ago I was pondering separation from the Army and the very best offer I could get was around 85K working as a DoD contractor in NJ. That was with 12 years of extensive IT, commo and MI expierence AND a TS/SCI. 85K in NJ these days is marginal.In addition, do not let military life confuse you with civilian life. One thing the military always provides is a place to sleep, food to eat and a pay check. The corporate world doesn't provide unless you are at least executive VP status. Maybe if you are DoD. Keep in mind you will be starting over in the corporate world and you start at the bottom. However, looking at the posts of your debts, you might need to re-think things a little more. I've been in a lot longer than you and the only debt I've had in the past 12 years was a brand new Corvette. Take care and good luck.
Intermediate
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 46
Likes: 1
From: Bedrock Alberta
Here in Alberta, Canada, economy is booming, rent is $1,600/mnth for a basic apartment. (thank-god I bought my first house 20+ years ago) The ONLY way the wife would let me buy another vette was to pay for it first. Small business owners dont need extra payments.... and btw.. THANX TO ALL OF YOU FOR SERVING!
Burning Brakes
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 936
Likes: 286
From: Shreveport Louisiana
I experience the exact same thing, I'm also a SSgt but with a C5 coupe. Although my payments are $398, and my wife's car is paid for. I also have a DD beater and a nice motorcycle which are paid for. The C5 is my only payment. We have no debt otherwise.
I usually answer the questions with, "you really don't know how affordable a used C5 is". An E-3 in my unit took the comment to heart and bought a Torch Red Coupe. Although, he sold his brand new car to do it...
Military pay is a joke though, it allows me to live well... but not well enough for the future. I'm grateful for my time, but I'm punching my ticket in 18 months. The civilian equivalent of my job pays 6 figures, whereas I make 28k a year after taxes.
I usually answer the questions with, "you really don't know how affordable a used C5 is". An E-3 in my unit took the comment to heart and bought a Torch Red Coupe. Although, he sold his brand new car to do it...
Military pay is a joke though, it allows me to live well... but not well enough for the future. I'm grateful for my time, but I'm punching my ticket in 18 months. The civilian equivalent of my job pays 6 figures, whereas I make 28k a year after taxes.
Last edited by bgspot; Nov 4, 2007 at 12:41 AM.
Administrator
Joined: Jun 2007
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From: Bel Air (by way of Fort Worth, TX) Maryland
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This must be "I'm an Enlisted Guy With a Vette Day"... . BTW, I hope you are not serious about the 6 figure job thing. Even with a TS it will take you 5-10 years to start earning 6 figures if you are a savy guy. About 2 1/2 years ago I was pondering separation from the Army and the very best offer I could get was around 85K working as a DoD contractor in NJ. That was with 12 years of extensive IT, commo and MI expierence AND a TS/SCI. 85K in NJ these days is marginal.
In addition, do not let military life confuse you with civilian life. One thing the military always provides is a place to sleep, food to eat and a pay check. The corporate world doesn't provide unless you are at least executive VP status. Maybe if you are DoD. Keep in mind you will be starting over in the corporate world and you start at the bottom. However, looking at the posts of your debts, you might need to re-think things a little more. I've been in a lot longer than you and the only debt I've had in the past 12 years was a brand new Corvette. Take care and good luck.
. BTW, I hope you are not serious about the 6 figure job thing. Even with a TS it will take you 5-10 years to start earning 6 figures if you are a savy guy. About 2 1/2 years ago I was pondering separation from the Army and the very best offer I could get was around 85K working as a DoD contractor in NJ. That was with 12 years of extensive IT, commo and MI expierence AND a TS/SCI. 85K in NJ these days is marginal.In addition, do not let military life confuse you with civilian life. One thing the military always provides is a place to sleep, food to eat and a pay check. The corporate world doesn't provide unless you are at least executive VP status. Maybe if you are DoD. Keep in mind you will be starting over in the corporate world and you start at the bottom. However, looking at the posts of your debts, you might need to re-think things a little more. I've been in a lot longer than you and the only debt I've had in the past 12 years was a brand new Corvette. Take care and good luck.
especially with this statement.I hit the big 2-0 in about 8 months and I can tell ya, I save about $1300 of every pay check in various accounts (2 mutual funds, a Roth IRA and 2 savings accounts + a whole life policy). I waited until I was 36 and wearing SFC strips before I let the thought of a Vette creep into my head. Good to see that you young guys are able to live the dream a bit earlier than that, so my hat's off to ya. Just don't forget to pay yourself first and stay safe
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 2,574
Likes: 3
From: Fredericton NB
Hi all,
The #1 question so far is how can I afford a z06 on a SSgt pay. My only response is how can you not afford one. I keep getting funny looks and they think i am doing something on the side to pay for it. Kinda kills me. I am wondering where all there money is going. I did the typical thing when I got married, adopted a little girl locally, and ran up lots of debt but after 4 years of working a second job and the wife working we have our bills under control. I am 30 freaking years old and deserve something nice for my hard work.
Pay chart available anywhere on net.
e-5 (SSgt) 2000+ take home cash
600 a month for the z06 (which i will refinance to drop payments)
360 for wifes car
500 for living expenses
0 rent (base)
(0) food (256 extra pay for food)
0 utilities
0 for college (af tuition)
What are my peers spending there money on?
Does anyone else experience this?
Sorry for the rant!!
Nick
The #1 question so far is how can I afford a z06 on a SSgt pay. My only response is how can you not afford one. I keep getting funny looks and they think i am doing something on the side to pay for it. Kinda kills me. I am wondering where all there money is going. I did the typical thing when I got married, adopted a little girl locally, and ran up lots of debt but after 4 years of working a second job and the wife working we have our bills under control. I am 30 freaking years old and deserve something nice for my hard work.
Pay chart available anywhere on net.
e-5 (SSgt) 2000+ take home cash
600 a month for the z06 (which i will refinance to drop payments)
360 for wifes car
500 for living expenses
0 rent (base)
(0) food (256 extra pay for food)
0 utilities
0 for college (af tuition)
What are my peers spending there money on?
Does anyone else experience this?
Sorry for the rant!!
Nick
Wow...I didnt realize that the US military pay was that low ( no disrespect meant ).
I retired from the Canadian Military (Infantry Sgt.) with 10 years service and my final year in 2004 I was making $52000.00 a year ! When we went on tour we also received foreign service premiums that amounted to upwards of $4000.00 per month tax free !. The Canadian Governernment even passed legislation that when our soldiers partake in tours over seas that for the duration of their tour they dont even have to pay tax on their regular wages ! So as a Sgt. (first incentive) on the current Afghan mission I would have brought home approximately $8300-$9300.00 a month tax free.
The pay rates for the Canadian army are now unreal. A no hook private who signs on the dotted line starts at approximately $30000.00 a year and is guaranteed $46000.00 within 4 years with promotion to Corporal.
This is copied and pasted from the DnD website:
Regular Force (Full Time Employment)
Officer: Start: $42K/yr After 5 Yrs: $66K/yr
Non-commissioned member: Start: $30K/yr After 5 Yrs: $50K/yr
Perhaps the US gov't should step up and increase your pay
Thanks for all your service btw...I really do miss the comraderie
Race Director
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 11,363
Likes: 1
From: Virginia Beach VA
St. Jude Donor '08-'09
The #1 question so far is how can I afford a z06 on a SSgt pay. My only response is how can you not afford one. I keep getting funny looks and they think i am doing something on the side to pay for it. Kinda kills me. I am wondering where all there money is going. I did the typical thing when I got married, adopted a little girl locally, and ran up lots of debt but after 4 years of working a second job and the wife working we have our bills under control. I am 30 freaking years old and deserve something nice for my hard work.
Pay chart available anywhere on net.
e-5 (SSgt) 2000+ take home cash
600 a month for the z06 (which i will refinance to drop payments)
360 for wifes car
500 for living expenses
0 rent (base)
(0) food (256 extra pay for food)
0 utilities
0 for college (af tuition)
What are my peers spending there money on?
Pay chart available anywhere on net.
e-5 (SSgt) 2000+ take home cash
600 a month for the z06 (which i will refinance to drop payments)
360 for wifes car
500 for living expenses
0 rent (base)
(0) food (256 extra pay for food)
0 utilities
0 for college (af tuition)
What are my peers spending there money on?
In addition, do not let military life confuse you with civilian life. One thing the military always provides is a place to sleep, food to eat and a pay check. The corporate world doesn't provide unless you are at least executive VP status. Maybe if you are DoD. Keep in mind you will be starting over in the corporate world and you start at the bottom. However, looking at the posts of your debts, you might need to re-think things a little more. I've been in a lot longer than you and the only debt I've had in the past 12 years was a brand new Corvette. Take care and good luck.
First off I will start with, I appreciate everything the military does to keep up free and living the way we do...so thanks for your service.
NOW...Living in a military community, I have a lot of military friends. And before someone brings up the "it's just jealousy because you don't have something"...I have just as nice things...and considering I drive a Vette and they all drive civics, accords, jeeps, dakota's, etc, I actually see it as I have nicer things (not that there is anything wrong with any of the others). But to listen to my military friends (who live on base) say things like, "you make more then me, how come you hardly come out to party?" is irritating. Don't forget when you make statements like
What are my peers spending there money on?
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 3,447
Likes: 6
From: Los Angeles
This must be "I'm an Enlisted Guy With a Vette Day"... . BTW, I hope you are not serious about the 6 figure job thing. Even with a TS it will take you 5-10 years to start earning 6 figures if you are a savy guy. About 2 1/2 years ago I was pondering separation from the Army and the very best offer I could get was around 85K working as a DoD contractor in NJ. That was with 12 years of extensive IT, commo and MI expierence AND a TS/SCI. 85K in NJ these days is marginal.
In addition, do not let military life confuse you with civilian life. One thing the military always provides is a place to sleep, food to eat and a pay check. The corporate world doesn't provide unless you are at least executive VP status. Maybe if you are DoD. Keep in mind you will be starting over in the corporate world and you start at the bottom. However, looking at the posts of your debts, you might need to re-think things a little more. I've been in a lot longer than you and the only debt I've had in the past 12 years was a brand new Corvette. Take care and good luck.
. BTW, I hope you are not serious about the 6 figure job thing. Even with a TS it will take you 5-10 years to start earning 6 figures if you are a savy guy. About 2 1/2 years ago I was pondering separation from the Army and the very best offer I could get was around 85K working as a DoD contractor in NJ. That was with 12 years of extensive IT, commo and MI expierence AND a TS/SCI. 85K in NJ these days is marginal.In addition, do not let military life confuse you with civilian life. One thing the military always provides is a place to sleep, food to eat and a pay check. The corporate world doesn't provide unless you are at least executive VP status. Maybe if you are DoD. Keep in mind you will be starting over in the corporate world and you start at the bottom. However, looking at the posts of your debts, you might need to re-think things a little more. I've been in a lot longer than you and the only debt I've had in the past 12 years was a brand new Corvette. Take care and good luck.
While it's true that military will provide you the 3 hots and cot, they also believe that's all you'll ever want. IMO, I have enough business sense to earn more, invest more, and provide those things for myself.
Last edited by DefenderC5; Nov 5, 2007 at 12:09 AM. Reason: speeling
Le Mans Master
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 8,466
Likes: 51
St. Jude Donor '17
Defender
You an instructor out there at Vandy? I am EMT at Warren. I am a speech class away from CCAF but I already have a A.S. in electronic engineering proir to my enlistment. I have a big screen TV but its pay for. The family doesnt go out to eat and the credit cards are going to be gone in a year. I cut my cable down to the top 220 which is 49 a month from 120 for every channel available. That is most of my extra payment right there.
You an instructor out there at Vandy? I am EMT at Warren. I am a speech class away from CCAF but I already have a A.S. in electronic engineering proir to my enlistment. I have a big screen TV but its pay for. The family doesnt go out to eat and the credit cards are going to be gone in a year. I cut my cable down to the top 220 which is 49 a month from 120 for every channel available. That is most of my extra payment right there.
To justify you owning a corvette to yourself? that is what i read between the lines
