How Much Does a Retired Command Sergeant Major Make?
The United States military is renowned for its rigorous training and the exceptional dedication of its personnel. Among these individuals are the Command Sergeants Major (CSM), who serve as the highest-ranking enlisted soldiers in the Army, Air Force, and Marine Corps. After a distinguished career, a retired CSM can expect a substantial pension, but how much does a retired command sergeant major make? This article delves into the details of the pension and benefits that these esteemed veterans receive.
The Military Retirement System
The United States military retirement system is a defined benefit plan, which means that the amount of retirement pay is predetermined based on a soldier’s rank, length of service, and age at retirement. For a retired Command Sergeant Major, the pension is calculated using a formula that takes into account these factors.
Rank and Length of Service
A Command Sergeant Major typically has over 20 years of service before retirement. Their rank is determined by their years of service and their accomplishments within the military. The longer a CSM serves, the higher their rank and the greater their pension will be.
The Pension Formula
The formula for calculating a retired CSM’s pension is as follows:
Pension = (Base Pay x High-3 x 2.5%) x Years of Service
“Base Pay” refers to the average of the highest three consecutive years of active-duty pay. “High-3” is the average of the highest three consecutive years of basic pay, which is used to calculate the pension. The percentage (2.5%) is a standard rate for military retirement benefits.
Benefits and Compensation
In addition to the pension, a retired Command Sergeant Major is entitled to a variety of benefits and compensation. These include:
– Medical and dental coverage through TRICARE, the military’s health care program.
– Free or discounted access to military bases and facilities.
– Survivor benefits for eligible family members.
– Tax-free Thrift Savings Plan contributions, which are similar to a 401(k) plan.
Retirement Pay Example
Let’s say a retired Command Sergeant Major has 25 years of service and a base pay of $8,000 per month. Using the pension formula, their monthly pension would be:
Pension = ($8,000 x $8,000 x 2.5%) x 25 = $40,000
This means that the retired CSM would receive a monthly pension of $40,000, along with the other benefits and compensation mentioned earlier.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a retired Command Sergeant Major can expect to receive a substantial pension and a range of benefits that reflect their years of service and dedication to the United States military. While the exact amount of the pension may vary based on individual circumstances, the formula and benefits provided ensure that these esteemed veterans are well taken care of in their post-military life.
