The Pentagon's action likely violates federal law and constitutional principles. The Anti-Deficiency Act explicitly prohibits federal agencies from spending money without congressional appropriation and from accepting voluntary services to offset funding lapses. This unprecedented move undermines Congress's constitutional power of the purse and raises serious questions about the influence over the U.S. military.
A patriotic American stepped up to support troops when Democrats chose to withhold military pay during their shutdown. This generous donation ensures service members receive their earned salaries while politicians play games with government funding. The Pentagon properly accepted this gift under existing authority, demonstrating how private citizens can help when partisan obstruction threatens military families.
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