http://www.military.com/benefits/co...amily-benefits.html?comp=7000022780157&rank=5
I'm seeing a clause here within the above article that says before a soldier has served 24 months, it may affect survivor benefits.
Also unclear if the $100,000 tax free death gratuity would apply to someone whose spouse died at home so-to-speak vs. performing functions for the military when their death occurred.
You can get an idea how complicated understanding all of this is just by poking around on this site.
Bottom line, considering how new 'they' are to the Army, I'm not sure how great the insurance motive is - unless assumptions were being made. I know when a soldier dies in combat those higher amounts, that I've seen posted, come into play.
Side note - Once you're retired, as my husband is since 2004, you pay a hefty annual bill (can choose 12x,2x,1x payment per year) to keep the life insurance active - just like any other person who carries life insurance.