Just to add some clarity to the curiosity and confusion, here is my experience thus far...
1st year: $21,307.23 (before contract)
2nd year: $35,343.72 (upgrade late-mid-year)
3rd year: $52,086.74
Upgrades are right around two years now, so 2nd year pay is probably closer to $33,000. Per diem is included which hovers around $4,000-$5000/year. This forum greatly helped me make my decision, so I hope this helps you all, as well.