GovernmentExecutive.com

Am I missing something here? A serviceman traveling on orders files a travel voucher for his ticket and incidental expenses - such as baggage fees. The soldier doesn't pay anything extra - the U.S. Government (a.k.a. the taxpayer) is paying the extra fee.

Ron  | Wednesday, August 20, 2008 |  08:02 AM

---

Apparently, I have hit a sore spot with some folks. So, let me get this straight: our military of today (FYI, I just got out 10 years ago, not WWII), gets issued all this COMBAT EQUIPMENT, takes it home, packs it all in 3 or 4 duffels, and then transports it via COMMERCIAL AIR to wherever they are going? And all this equipment is obviously not in the military member's possession the entire time, as it is shipped in the CARGO HOLD. So now it is subject to loss, theft, damage,etc. Am I getting this right?

Ex military  | Wednesday, August 13, 2008 |  12:13 PM

---

Disgraceful. God bless the servicemen, and shame on the Airline. I've noticed the lack of respect to all passengers on airlines by their personnel. I figure that if they don't like their jobs perhaps they should change jobs. I love our servicemen and their families(who sacrifice so much) and wish to thank them for each minute they serve our great country. Too bad the almighty dollar overrides humanity.

Barb  | Tuesday, August 12, 2008 |  10:37 PM

---

This is just another example of how much the airline industry needs re-regulation. Congress is too busy being wooed by industry lobbyists with free trips to actually do something that might benefit traveling soldiers (you can forget about them ever doing something about civilian travelers). American (and any other airlines) should be penalized for charging soldiers.

Andy Neilsen  | Thursday, August 07, 2008 |  07:15 AM

---

Ex-Military,

You must know that things have changed dramatically since WW2! I deployed for the first Gulf and I ended up with 2 duffel (that's what the Army calls them) and helmet bag. That was jammed. I'm now retired after 28 years of military service, but my youngest is an infantryman (3/2ID) and he had to leave stuff behind even when moving from one place to another in Iraq, because of all the stuff that he had to take with him. Besides all the stuff you have to take, you have all the PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), such as, flak vest, gas mask, etc over and over. It's a chore to get everything that is required by the theater commander (Yup, he gets to call the shots) into 3 bags. American Airlines and all other airlines should be ashamed to charge deploying service personnel for extra "necessary" bags.

Red Wing 55  | Wednesday, August 06, 2008 |  11:04 AM

---

I agree that military bags (for deployment) should not procure any fees. I also think that they should not worry over its weight. If the throwers can't lift the bag then they need to find a buddy to help. To nickle and dime our armed forces is a slap in the face. It should be an honor to transport the armed forces not a burden.

Ex Jungle Stalker  | Tuesday, August 05, 2008 |  06:40 AM

---

The airlines should cut our men in uniform a little slack. How about, FREE for them?

Eddie  | Monday, August 04, 2008 |  09:44 AM

---

When my son deploys to Irag, which he has done 3 times, he has 3 bags. He has the traditional green bag for his things and 2 bags for his military issued equipment. So ex-soldier, things aren't what they used to be, or haven't you realized that YET.

I agree with Father of a 2-Tour soldier. What is the cost of protecting everyone freedom. Talk to the parents of those that have given their all. Thankfully my soldier has returned safe, but he is do to go out again in January. How will be come back this time.

soldier's parent  | Monday, August 04, 2008 |  08:04 AM

---

Lest us not forget that when they taught us to jam those green bags we did not have a scale weighing them. In addition to the other rules - each bag can only weigh 50 pounds and they do check as I found out.

Frequent Flyer  | Sunday, August 03, 2008 |  04:35 PM

---

I dont know how things are now, but when I was in the military, everything we needed (uniforms, boots, etc) was issued and we were taught in boot camp how to get it all in ONE bag (seabag, rucksack, whatever you want to call those large, green bags that can be carried on the back).

So, lets make some concessions for civilian clothes, and maybe some comfort items, and we are talking about TWO bags at most(you can get ALOT in those bags). What in the world is he taking with him that he has THREE bags?

Ex military  | Friday, August 01, 2008 |  02:41 PM

---

Why aren't our Congressional leaders publicly denouncing this policy? Are they all to busy covering up their illegal gifts from contractors? Good job Ted. You spoiled it for every one else.

Robert M.  | Friday, August 01, 2008 |  01:21 PM

---

I have no doubt that the Staff Sergeant is too much of a professional to "charge" the airline for protecting their freedom, but it sure must have been tempting to want to reply that way. Fuel prices be damned!

While we are on this topic...why dont the airlines let our men and women in uniform board airlines FIRST, along with the first class passengers? I travel frequently on business and find it hard to believe that they arent shown a little more courtesy! It wouldnt cost the airlines anything to show some support in this manner.

(OK, Im done now...stepping off of my soapbox.)

Father of a 2-Tour Soldier  | Friday, August 01, 2008 |  10:43 AM

---