By Natalie Zarowny
nzarowny@cbs4qc.com
Due to budget cuts, 100's of thousands of military members
are losing their federal tuition aid.
"It's an unfortunate situation," said Specialist
Caleb Redell.
24–year–old Caleb has served in the military for the past
seven years, most recently with the Iowa National Guard.
Federal tuition aid was a big factor when he started hitting
the books at Scott Community college last fall.
"That was paying for all my tuition," said Caleb.
Because of Caleb's federal status, federal aid is the only
type of educational assistance, besides the GI bill, he has.
"It's just extra potential for cost and stress,"
said Caleb.
Caleb's not the only one.
Over 300 thousand active duty soldiers and airmen, plus full
time National Guard and reserve members like Caleb, are losing out.
According to one national guard official, it's an
unfortunate side effect of sequestration.
"If sequestration is reversed, then it's possible those
programs may be implemented again. It
looks unlikely that will happen anytime soon," said Col. Greg Hapsgood.
As for Caleb, he said the changes are all part of the job.
"Things can kind of get taken away or given back, it's
just one of the things you realize after a while at least," said Caleb.
Military officials say there are still other kinds of aid
available, depending on your status.
Like state assistance programs, and the GI Bill.
