[fintstone]

It is not just the money for most. Although my Reserve position is relatively cushy and safe, It actually costs me money to be in the Reserve. I give up one day of retirement pay each day for each day I pull reserve duty...so I loose about 65% off the top.... and then it costs me for transportation, food, and a place to stay where my duty is....which is significantly more than the remaining 35%. As far as benefits...I have already earned and receive them all anyways.
Few servicemen get the special pays that a sub guy like Dan does....Pilots and Doctors do quite well...but the Services must compete with the market in those areas. For most, it is ordinary wages for extraordinary sacrifice.