This news comes via NBC Washington:
The U.S. Marine Corps drastically cut what it will pay for Marines to take classes, and some Marines say that’s a big hit to morale.
Three active-duty Marines spoke to News4 on condition of anonymity for fear of getting in trouble with the corps. They’re upset about a recent change to a tuition assistance program used to further their education while serving the country.
The Department of Defense allows enlisted soldiers of all branches to spend $3,500 a year for their education. But according to the Marine Corps website, starting Oct. 1, the Marine Corps cut that figure to $875, “which would only allow Marines to take one class a year,” a Marine said.
“One of the reasons that I personally joined the Marine Corps was for education,” a Marine said. “Right now, I can tell you off the spot the morale just isn’t high. This really is a big hit for all enlisted ranks.”
This is different from the Montgomery GI Bill, which entitles enlisted soldiers a monthly education stipend after completing the minimum required service…
These Marines said this new rule will force them to delay their education or dip into their Montgomery GI Bill assistance early — something they hoped to use to further their education or for their family after getting out of the service.