Other factors add to "real" income
      In addition to base pay and extra pay for certain duties, there are many factors which make up a soldier's "real" income, which is considerably higher than his cash pay, because he gets free facilities and services that the civilian must pay for himself.
      Free food, clothing, quarters, and medical and dental care represents large cash savings for a soldier each year.  Purchases at post exchanges and commissaries are at prices below civilian scales.  Sports, social and amusement facilities are available at a fraction of civilian cost.
      The enlisted man's pay is not subject to Federal income tax.  He gets National Service Life Insurance at reduced premiums and is entitled to free mailing privileges and special rates on common carriers for travel while on furlough or pass.

Value of soldier's maintenance
      In civilian life, the annual cost of medical and dental care ranks high in the family budget. The peacetime soldier receives this care free.  It also is furnished to his dependents where facilities are available.  U.S. Department of Labor figures released on December 9, 1945, show that the average city family in the $2,000 to $2,400 income bracket pays $104 a year for medical and dental expenses, while in the #2,500 to $3,500 income group the cot rises to $123.
      The food bill also is a most important one in civilian life.  In the Army, the same quality and quantity of food prepared and served to each man would cost $50 a month or more if obtained by any other way than through the facilities of the Army mess.
      Other important savings to the soldier and his family can be

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