Just a Little Over the Top

Army's 'Debt Of Service' Leaves Vets Perplexed

Unbelievably, Soldiers Must Pay For Damaged Equipment

(CBS) NEW YORK

Servicemen and women who made huge sacrifices fighting in the war and now paying yet another price, even after coming home.

One soldier in particular is currently battling against a new "debt of service."

Brian Rodriguez is a fighter, an honorably discharged soldier who'd been deployed in Iraq.

"I was a combat engineer," Rodriguez said. "We deal with land mines, explosives."

He fought for his nation, only to return to his homeland and wage a fresh battle.

Former Army Specialist Rodriguez started getting bills for $700 for lost or damaged government property this summer. Although he was discharged some four years ago, bills recently arrived demanding payment, but giving no details on what or why -- nor do they offer a way to dispute the charges.

"For doing my job you're going to bill me?" Rodriguez said.

There's more ... there usually is ...

It smacks of the Soviets ... who executed you, then sent a bill for the bullet to your family.