Army repurposed over $151 million from soldier paychecks for food to spend elsewhere: Report

The United States Army allegedly repurposed more than $151 million that it took from soldiers' paychecks for food, and spent it on other costs instead, according to a Military.com report.

The Army typically takes $460 per month from junior enlisted soldiers who live in barracks on base, which is supposed to go toward food. But data reviewed by the outlet show that for the Army's 2024 fiscal year, over $151 million of the $225 million that was collected by 11 of the Army's largest bases for food, went into the Army's general fund. 

The data examined is from October 1, 2023 to September 30, 2024, according to the outlet. 

It is not clear from the data where the money is actually being spent, but the 2024 financial records from 11 of the Army's largest bases showed that just $2.1 million of the $17 million collected at Fort Stewart, Georgia, went to food. 

Hawaii's Schofield Barracks allegedly collected $14.5 million for food, but used only $5.3 million. This means that 63% of the funds were donated to the general fund instead, Military.com reported. 

The review found that all but two of the 11 bases left more than half of the money for food unspent in 2024, with Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska and Fort Bliss, Texas, leaving 41% and 49% respectively.

Army spokesperson Maj. Andrea Kelly told Military.com in a statement that they only use funds "needed to feed the projected number of meals based on previous head counts," meaning they base how much they purchase on past attendance at the dining facilities. 

Other service officials have addressed this in the past, saying the amount of food purchased has gone down because of a perception of reduced interest by the service members. 

But according to the outlet, service members have frequently described "undercooked meat, unseasoned meals, a lack of fresh ingredients, and unhealthy menu options," as the reason fewer soldiers are using the facilities. 

Hawaii Democratic Rep. Jill Tokuda called for an immediate investigation.

"Stealing food money from our soldiers is not how we achieve military readiness," Tokuda told Military.com. "The fact that at least $151 million was collected from soldiers and not spent on food as required demands not just an immediate investigation, but swift accountability."

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.