Pay And Benefits - Washington D.C.

What's Up - The Defense Department opposes an intiative that would make it easier for Tricare beneficiaries living in U.S. territories to use space availible transport on military aircraft to travel to medical appointments. The House passed propposal, aimed mainly at military retires, would displace other space-A- travelers, including teachers at Defense Department schools, students on their way to and from college, civilian employees and members of the Red Cross, defense officials said.

What's Next - With the proposed travel benefit under discission by congressional negotiators, defense officials arer willing to accept a compromise to allow space avaloble travel, but with outgiving Tricare beneficiaries the normal higher priority for return flights granted to travelers on military aircraft. A decision could be made by the end of the year.