1 A retired Regular officer who also is employed by the federal government and is subject to the dual compensation statutes may have that reduction reduced because of the waiver of retired pay to receive VA benefits.
If they don't, then 4 thick is usually standard for a patio slab, how large or small it is doesn't really matter. The most important part is the sub-base. Make sure you have a good gravel base. I would recommend at least 12 inches of compacted gravel. I like gravel where the aggregate (rocks) are no larger than 1.
Instructions. Build patio slabs at a slant to allow water to run away from the house. A mild slope of one-quarter inch prevents pooling of water on the patio and allows any dirt on the patio to wash away. Keep the slab higher than the surrounding flower beds.