Military Policy: Volunteers, Mercenaries, etc.

I've tried to understand our current military policy in terms of management of volunteers, use of mercenaries ~ that is the true name and intent of that group ~ and the stated shortage of troops. It seems that with respect to volunteers, we are encouraging persons to enlist who would never be admitted in the past: former criminals, those with physical problems, those with mental problems and others. If those folks don't meet criteria set in the past, we are obviously seeking what we used to call cannon fodder. Even the extremely high bonus and cash awards do not seem to improve the quality of enlistees. We certainly can't blame persons failing to seek employment elsewhere, enlisting as a desperate attempt to survive in our present national situation.

Then there are the mercenaries, all highly paid, many quick to violence, most former military persons drawn by incomes not achieveable in the private sector. This group is basically operating independently of military or civilian control ~ contracted out much as our government has allowed our other corporations to manage their affairs and tax money apart from any regulatory control by government. It seems our government has been in the process for some time now to shift governmental functions to the private sector on the assumption that the jobs can be better achieved there. Think about it: has deregulation really helped our citizens? Or are we trusting our corporate structures too much, assuming they have no greed and are honest?

I believe we should think hard on all of this as we approach another national election. Many are beginning to believe that we need a draft. Yes, a draft that will mean even corporate executives, elected officials (etc) may find a son or daughter on the front lines. We do not need mercenaries with a solid standing military. We might find that our leaders may initiate fewer wars if their own people may be in uniform. Besides, if necessary to have more troops, they are findable.

At least it is worth while to think of these things instead of accepting direction from folks that obviously have little interest in change since as we are the rich get richer ....