UPI: Army Still Stretched By Iraq

[Barrett808]

Army Still Stretched By Iraq
United Press International
October 20, 2004

WASHINGTON - More than 27 percent of the military's active duty troops are overseas, and more than half of them are in combat zones, numbers not seen since the Vietnam War, a new study shows.

The study from a consortium of security policy think tanks and advocacy groups warns that the stress the Iraq war is placing on the military's personnel and equipment could reach a breaking point in as little as two years.

"We haven't seen a split like that since Vietnam," said Carl Conetta, co-director of the Project on Defense Alternatives.

U.S. forces are probably going to continue to be in Iraq in those numbers for the long haul, which raises concerns about readiness, morale and retention, according to defense analysts involved in the Security Policy Working Group.

A much greater percentage of the force is deployed overseas than it was for the last decade, from 1992 to 2002, the study shows. It also questions whether adequate preparations were made to support such a deployment.

"The fact that we are doing it doesn't mean we can do it," Conetta said. "What was the preparation that allows for this? There hasn't been the preparation. It doesn't mean people are revolting in the field (leaving the military). You're not going to see a problem right away. ... My concern is that it might be soon."

(more)

http://www.military.com/NewsContent/0,13319,FL_army_102004,00.html

[cliss]

1. Stretched a little thin are we?

Recall Bush's recent words, as he was targeting younger voters: "Stick with me for avoiding the draft".

Yeah, I really believe you George. My girlfriend called me last month to tell me that her stepfather was being shipped to Iraq. This man is retired, I believe she said in his late 50's. He's actually on disability.

He's got a big beer gut, he's overweight and in very bad shape. She's worried about him because he'll be nothing but target practice over there.

And RumsFailed says we've got enough?

[saigon68]

2. Read my lips--- "No new draft" , The awol CHIMPANZEE

Anyone who believes this coward and liar is a fool.

[Paleocon]

3. I agree....

There may just need to be a draft to jolt America awake to the horrors of today's politics...

[saigon68]

4. The draft will come

The Neocons are praying on their knees for 9-11 Act II

after the next outrage the spineless democrats in congress will agian vote to support the CHIMPANZEE.

[Paleocon]

5. I really think that is the only thing that will wake America up....

I volunteered and did my time, but I have a lot of nervous friends that don't want to hear about a draft.

[Supersedeas]

6. could reach a breaking point - then....silence from Broadcast media

with plenty of time for the THK 'CONTROVERSY'