As a former Marine myself, I would like to respond to some of the above: First off, some background: I served in 1990-1994 No, I did not participate in the first Gulf War. I was in Boot Camp when it kicked off. I started out making $780 (and change) a month as an E-1 (Private) I ended up making $1150 a month as an E-4 (Corporal) Yes, health and food costs were covered. However, clothing was NOT covered, and can cost quite a penny... all uniforms must be tailored to specific regulations. I lived on base my entire stint in the Corps, and during that time, I lived in Squad Bays which housed 60+ Marines (No Privacy) to Dormitory like buildings where I shared a room with up to 2-3 other Marines. Primary job (MOS) was infantry, but for the majority of my tour, I served in the Security Forces overseas in Italy and Greece, protecting "assests" vital to the National Security of the US. During that time, we pulled duty which consisted of 6 hours on guard, 6 hours off. We did this for 3 days straight, and then we got 3 days off. Then we had 3 days of training, and then the cycle started over.
- By: Devil Dog on April 18, 2003

As far as I know, military jobs never pay good money in all countries. If you compare $1,022.70 with what the Iranians gets, its quite higher. I am not talking about converting Dollars to Iranian Rials; just comparing living costs in Iran and US, and considering the money they make. Dave, I don't think it's more than minimum wage for a 40 hour week. Here in Canada, I guess minimum wage is $7.50/hr and that would make it around $1200 for one month!
- By: Aslan on April 14, 2003

:-)) It's funny, my 21 year old flatmate works part time in "Marks and Spencer" food court and she earns more than a US Marine LOL ...
- By: Ali on April 12, 2003

I am not sure if you think this is a lot of money or not enough. It is a bit more than minimum wage for a 40 hour week, but they don't work a 40 hour week, they are always on duty, on call. Many jobs in the Marines require more hours, some Marines may only get two days off a month. On the plus side, when they live on base they also get their clothing, meals, and medical needs taken care of by the Marines. Most of the reservists are only earning about half of what their regular jobs paid while they are on duty in the Middle East, and no one is making up the difference for them. Just thought may want the details.
- By: Dave on April 12, 2003