Allowing recruits to use their cellphones during basic training comes as the Navy eyes ways to lower attrition rates and increase interest in joining up.
Under the latest congressional budget plan, troops E-6 and below could start getting monthly bonuses from the Defense Department to offset low base pay.
Just 77 military families have qualified for the Basic Needs Allowance, a stipend that can amount to more than $1,000 a month, under the current rules.