The Air Force has released its re-enlistment bonus rates for FY 2010 and it's good news. The Air Force has increased bonus amounts in 35 AFSCs (jobs), and added 10 AFSCs to the list. However, bonuses went down in 32 jobs, and 2 AFSCs fell off the list.

Two top Republicans warn that the national health care reform plan approved by the House of Representatives could end up hurting military retirees and veterans, according to an article in the Army Times.

Reps. Howard "Buck" McKeon of California, ranking Republican on the House Armed Services Committee, and Steve Buyer of Indiana, ranking Republican on the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, said they fear the Affordable Health Care for America Act that passed the House by a 220-215 vote on Saturday would restrict options and possibly reduce coverage for veterans, retirees and their families.

The Army plans within 18 months to field robots that will do some tasks without direct human control, such as finding explosives and transporting equipment, according to an Army Times article.

The robots will turn corners, clear dangerous areas, capture images with a "persistent stare" and beam them back, and follow convoys without being tele-operated as they are now. Robots that can clear caves and roads or deal with explosive ordnance will be able to operate alongside infantry units, move their mechanical arms and beam back images from forward locations without needing specific human direction.

The Army has announced a plan that will allow about 150 basic-branch lieutenants to leave active duty early so they can join a National Guard troop unit in fiscal 2010. The releases are scheduled to occur between May 1 and September 30, 2010.

While specific details have not yet been announced, the plan will restrict early releases to to lieutenants of the Army Competitive Category with between 24 to 36 months of commissioned service. According to officials, warrant officers, JAG officers, Chaplains, medical officers, and aviators will not be eligible for the program.