Raise to get or keep Gls clearing obstacle course

The House approved a compromise military pay package giving soldiers raises ranging from 10 to 17 persent. The Senate was expected to give prompt approval to the pay increase, which may cost taxpayers about $5 billion next year.

The House originally voted to give an across-the-board 14.2 percent raise, reflecting a concern about recruiting new personnel to the all-volunteer armed services. The Senate originally opted for a range of increases, with the largest going to experienced personnel, in an effort to retain them in the service. But the compromise bill, worked out by a House-Senate committee, provides increases of 10.7 to 17 percent for enlisted personnel and 14.3 percent for officers.