ALBANY, N.Y. — The US Army is now offering a newly increased $20,000 enlistment bonus, and for the first time is offering a cash bonus in addition to the Army College Fund.

US Army Recruiting Command officials recently announced that qualified applicants will now be eligible for a maximum cash enlistment bonus of $20,000. This is a 67 percent increase over the previous maximum bonus amount of $12,000.

“In addition, the cash enlistment bonus can now be taken in conjunction with the Army College Fund, which offers up to $50,000 for college or vocational training after a four-year enlistment,” said Battalion Commander Lt Col W.D. Brosnan, in charge of Army recruiting for this area. Previously recruits had to choose between the enlistment bonus and the Army College Fund.

Cash enlistment bonus amounts range from $1,000 to $20,000 based upon the military occupational skill selected and the term of service. There is now a cash enlistment bonus for two-year enticements. “Until now cash enlistment bonuses were offered only for three-year or longer terms of service,” Lt Col Brosnan said.

The Army College Fund is available for two, three and four-year enlistments, with the benefit ranging from $26,5000 to $50,000.

To be eligible for these enlistment incentives, an applicant must have no prior military service, meet educational criteria, score in the top half of the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, and meet all the other enlistment criteria.

Anyone who wants to learn more about these enlistment incentives should contact the Danbury Recruiting Station, 2 White Street, or call 792-1590 or the toll-free hotline at 800/USA ARMY, or visit the Web site at www.goarmy.com.