T/J, but we do give a lot of money to our troops. Free healthcare, housing, GI bill, hazardous duty pay, life-long disability benefits, great retirement plan for those that stay in, and the gift of nearly guaranteed employment following separation (at least for those continuing to live/work in military heavy areas). No doubt great sacrifices are made for these benefits, but it's not like they're going away empty handed. Maybe E-1/2/3 are underpaid, but it makes up for itself over time IMO.
FWIW, my wife was active duty and is still in the Guard, so I do speak from some experience.