October 17, 2006: The U.S. Army has had great success with the Army Referral Bonus program, so it is being expanded. Basically, under the original program, active and reserve soldiers could earn a $2,000 bonus if they brought in a new recruit (who had to successfully complete basic and advanced training.) Existing soldiers have long been a primary source of new recruits, and this became an even more productive source once the bonus became available. In effect, the troops were now willing to go the extra mile with friends and acquaintances they knew were interested, but needed additional information or encouragement before they were ready to sign up. The new provisions in the program make retired soldiers (all active duty, and some reserve) and civilians working for the Department of the Army eligible for the bonus. The cost of the bonus is much less than what it costs to get recruits using traditional methods (advertising and more recruiters.)