Rumor Doctor blog archive
U.S. troops in Iraq to keep extra pays after Sept. 1
Published: June 1, 2010
“The Rumor Doctor” is here ... No, seriously.
His mission is to prove true or false those whispers you hear around the base or the FOB. It's part of Stars and Stripes' ongoing efforts to expand your situational awareness. For example, an Army spouse recently asked Defense Secretary Gates about a rumor that U.S. troops in Iraq would lose their extra pay starting in September.
The Rumor Doctor jumped on the case.
As it turns out, despite the drawdown, Iraq will still be designated as a combat zone for pay purposes, said Defense Department spokeswoman Eileen Lainez.
That means the Combat Zone Tax Exclusion will still apply, she said. Troops will also still receive extra pay including:
- $225 per month in Hazardous Duty/Imminent Danger Pay
- $100 per month in Hardship Duty Pay-Location
- $105 per month for incidental expenses.
- $250 per month in Family Separation Allowance if a servicemember has one or more dependents.
The Rumor Doctor's diagnosis: False.
So that’s one rumor down, but I need your help to keep it up.
If you hear the Army will now require underwear to be worn on the outside, please let me know.
Also, my Internet skills can best be described as “Amish,” so please let me know which chat sites, Facebook pages and RSS feeds that troops, families and veterans frequent to talk about what’s on your minds.
And then, if you could provide a brief explanation of what an “RSS Feed” is, we’ll be golden.
Heard a rumor that's been nagging at you? The Rumor Doctor can help!
Contact Jeff Schogol at:
703-692-1926 (work)
703-909-6488 (cell)
jeffrey.schogol@stripes.osd.mil
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