During the holidays, it is typically a time for loved ones to gather and share a meal. However, many active-duty service members and veterans face the difficult challenge of putting food on the table. Newsweek had the opportunity to speak with Jim Whaley, who served in the U.S. Army for two decades and is now the CEO of Mission Roll Call. This nonpartisan organization advocates for veterans' issues and sheds light on the prevalent food insecurity not only among veterans but also those still serving our country.

"Addressing Food Insecurity Among Military Personnel - A Call to Action"

Financial Insecurity and Its Impact

In 2024, an enlisted service member with the lowest paygrade of E-1 receives ,017.20 per month or ,206.40 per year in basic pay. This is a 5.2 percent increase from 2023 levels. Whaley recalls that decades ago in the military, officers would contribute to help younger families afford a turkey during the holidays. But now, with inflation, the situation has only worsened. Food insecurity issues are truly intertwined with financial insecurity.It is concerning to think that 24 percent of active-duty service members experienced food insecurity in 2020, as reported by the U.S. Department of Defense. Meanwhile, according to Feeding America, 1 in 9 working-age veterans are also food insecure. This is an embarrassment to our country and affects not only the individuals but also the overall military community.

Impact on Military Recruitment and Retention

Financial struggles among active-duty service members and veterans have a significant impact on military recruitment and retention. Whaley asks, "Why would you stay in if your family has to suffer so much? Why would you recommend to your friends and other family members to join?" If veterans are not taken care of and face similar struggles, it becomes difficult to retain active-duty members.The DOD's efforts to address these issues are crucial. In 2024, there was a 12.5 percent increase in recruitment, but challenges still remain in a competitive labor market. The Navy, for example, exceeded its enlisted Sailor and officer retention goals. However, more needs to be done to ensure the well-being of all service members.

Steps Taken by the DOD

The DOD released an infographic in September outlining the steps it is currently taking. This includes a cumulative 9.8 percent pay rise over the past two years and a proposed 4.5 percent pay raise for 2025. The Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) increased by an average of 18 percent over 2022 rates, and the Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS) increased by 13 percent over the past two years. These measures aim to offset housing and food costs for service members and their families.But more needs to be done. Whaley emphasizes that in a country as powerful and rich as ours, military service should not be relegated to those willing to suffer and not be able to provide for their families. We need to do a much better job of taking care of our active-duty military and veterans.