MIL News Weekly

This episode of MIL News Weekly covers critical military and veteran news from October 26 to November 1, 2025. The government shutdown triggered an urgent pay crisis for active duty and reserve personnel, with stopgap funds running out and families facing financial strain. Legislative measures, such as the Pay Our Troops Act, were proposed to safeguard military compensation, but broader political gridlock left support services and civilian staff in jeopardy. Despite operational disruptions—such as service cuts, childcare closures, and threatened commissary shutdowns—retired military personnel saw continued benefit stability and a 2.8% COLA increase for 2026. The VA maintained most essential services and advanced PACT Act claims processing, though some non-essential programs paused. The episode also explored proposed bills for retroactive pay to furloughed federal civilians and addressed concerns around disability claims reform. Overall, the show highlights the ongoing financial uncertainty for active personnel versus the relative security enjoyed by retirees and veterans.