How Much Does a General Make in the Air Force?
The United States Air Force is a prestigious branch of the military, with a long history of serving and protecting the country. Within the Air Force, there are many different ranks and positions, each with its own unique responsibilities and requirements. One of the most senior ranks in the Air Force is that of general, also known as a general officer. But how much does a general make in the Air Force?
What is a General in the Air Force?
Before we dive into the salary of a general in the Air Force, it’s important to understand what the rank entails. A general in the Air Force is a senior officer who has achieved the highest rank possible, above colonel and below the five-star general. There are several types of generals in the Air Force, including:
- Brigadier General (One-Star General): A brigadier general is a one-star general who has been in the Air Force for around 20-25 years. They typically hold leadership positions and are responsible for commanding brigades or regiments.
- Major General (Two-Star General): A major general is a two-star general who has been in the Air Force for around 25-30 years. They typically hold leadership positions and are responsible for commanding divisions or wings.
- Lieutenant General (Three-Star General): A lieutenant general is a three-star general who has been in the Air Force for around 30-35 years. They typically hold leadership positions and are responsible for commanding major commands or serving as deputy commanders.
- General (Four-Star General): A general is a four-star general who has been in the Air Force for around 35-40 years. They typically hold leadership positions and are responsible for commanding entire air forces or serving as the highest-ranking officer in a region.
How Much Does a General Make in the Air Force?
Now that we’ve discussed what a general is in the Air Force, let’s talk about how much they make. According to the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS), the base pay for generals in the Air Force ranges from around $15,000 to over $16,000 per month. Here’s a breakdown of the base pay for generals in the Air Force:
| Rank | Base Pay (per month) |
|---|---|
| Brigadier General (One-Star General) | $15,378 |
| Major General (Two-Star General) | $16,116 |
| Lieutenant General (Three-Star General) | $16,351 |
| General (Four-Star General) | $16,598 |
Additional Forms of Compensation
In addition to their base pay, generals in the Air Force also receive a number of other forms of compensation, including:
- Allowances: Generals in the Air Force receive a variety of allowances, including a basic allowance for housing (BAH), a basic allowance for subsistence (BAS), and an allowance for transportation (TA).
- Bonuses: Generals in the Air Force may also receive bonuses, such as bonuses for special skills or language proficiency.
- Thrift Savings Plan: Generals in the Air Force are eligible to participate in the Thrift Savings Plan, a retirement savings plan similar to a 401(k).
- Military Retirement System: Generals in the Air Force are also eligible for the military retirement system, which provides a guaranteed pension and healthcare benefits.
Benefits and Perks
In addition to their salary and additional forms of compensation, generals in the Air Force also receive a number of benefits and perks, including:
- Free or Low-Cost Healthcare: Generals in the Air Force and their families receive free or low-cost healthcare through the military’s healthcare system.
- Free or Low-Cost Education: Generals in the Air Force and their families are eligible for free or low-cost education through the military’s tuition assistance program.
- Travel Opportunities: Generals in the Air Force may have the opportunity to travel to different parts of the world as part of their job.
- Housing Allowance: Generals in the Air Force receive a housing allowance to help them pay for housing expenses.
- Food Allowance: Generals in the Air Force receive a food allowance to help them pay for food expenses.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the salary of a general in the Air Force varies depending on their rank and years of service. Additionally, generals in the Air Force receive a number of other forms of compensation, including allowances, bonuses, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan and the military retirement system. Generals in the Air Force also receive a number of benefits and perks, including free or low-cost healthcare, free or low-cost education, travel opportunities, a housing allowance, and a food allowance. Overall, the salary and benefits of a general in the Air Force are highly competitive and attractive to those who are interested in serving in the military.
