The Army hopes a plan to provide soldiers who saw combat in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom a chance to spend time in their home towns will bolster recruiting efforts as well. Presently, eligible soldiers can apply to become home-town recruiters for stints ranging from two weeks to 30 days, upon their return from Iraq or Afghanistan. During their temporary-duty tours, soldiers can receive per diem expenses and travel allowances. Under the change, commanders would select and screen candidates for the duty. Also, spouses can accompany soldiers on the tours, but are only covered for travel expenses. Combat soldiers who have returned to the U.S. within the past seven to 12 months in pay grades E-6 (staff sergeant) and below for enlisteds and O-3 (captain) and below for officers are eligible. For more information, visit www.2k.army.mil on the Web.
