I wonder why per diem policies differ between branches.  Many other State employees when traveling are reimbursed only for actual lodging expenses with an additional $32 (drops from $60 after 30 days) or so on top for dining expenses.  When I once suggested that this was not enough to subsist in rural Alaska, a division of finance person scolded me saying "this isn't supposed to be a reward".

So I guess there really is a double standard, but are we really obligated to feed them lobster and filet mignon?