Financial Education within the ranks

Cpl David Garcia — Wed, 28 May 2014 00:06:55 -0400

Although the Marine Corps allow correspondence classes from the Marine Corps Institute (MCI) many Marines do not take advantage of the subjects offered. With the current rise in the cost of living and many enlisted personnel “fresh” to an adult life the subject of personal finance should be taught in multiple settings from the squad level up to the Company level for each young warriors benefit in all branches. What are the thoughts floating around on this subject? Has financial education changed since 2008’s market change?

Response by CPT Jacob Swartout made May 28 at 2014 7:49 AM

CPT Jacob Swartout — Wed, 28 May 2014 07:49:48 -0400

I think it would benefit anyone since we need to be wise with our finances. Too many people are getting into a financial bind when it comes to car buying or house hunting. I have known Soldiers in my units that would go broke a few days after being paid. Teaching them how to budget will make a difference and it was surprising to me to find out that some don't really know how to budget effectively. The class I took many years ago when I was a junior enlisted was value added. It was only a one day class and it helped me out.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 28 at 2014 12:23 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 28 May 2014 12:23:41 -0400

I think it comes down to the new recruits getting eduacted on the programs and classes offered at each base with finances. I know that on my base we have a few different classes we can take from budgeting to loans. I think if more people knew about these available options, it would definitely make a bigger impact on how the newer enlisted personnel spend their pay.

Response by Cpl David Garcia made May 28 at 2014 12:27 PM

Cpl David Garcia — Wed, 28 May 2014 12:27:11 -0400

I understand that US Savings Bonds are encouraged by the various credit unions on base. With the paper bond slowly being taken out of circulation and the Treasury Dept issuing electronic bonds a junior enlisted at the least should dedicate a small portion of pay to this vehicle for life after the military. Without seeing a bond in hand the member would not be tempted to cash-in. Institutions like USAA members should be encouraged to start an IRA. However, with young warriors finding themselves financially depleted days after pay I personally feel that the leaders are letting them down. These are fresh minds that can be molded to not only perform in the field but in life. A soldier focused on a car repossession will not be focus on his job and that can impact the mission greatly. The "what-if's" are endless.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 6 at 2015 11:42 AM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 06 Jul 2015 11:42:10 -0400

I agree that something's like this MCI should be definitely taken advantage of by a marine.... Same as doing the counseling for marines MCI when preparing to become an NCO. Regardless, I still hold much empathy towards MCI's... Especially considering the course's right answers are usually very wrong in reality. Take Math for Marines for example... But I digress.