HOWEVER, that does NOT deny the fact that the military establishment, like any other government entity, is bloated and wasteful to a certain extent. Anyone who has ever served in the armed forces can attest to that. Does anyone doubt that the military could achieve an across the board savings of anywheres from 5-10% of its budget without reducing our military strength?
The procurement process, be it CVNs or fighters, causes excessive cost overruns. Congressional mandates add billions..as contracts are awarded due to politcal influence..(see John Murtha) Social engineering policies add huge costs, and do nothing for our readiness.
The Pentagon is bloated beyond belief. At the height of WW II, when the US had almost 15 million in the military, the number of general officers ( and their attendant staffs) was less that one fifth of the number we have now, when the military is now about 1/10 the size. THere is NO excuse for that.
The Ft Hood murderer is STILL drawing his full salary and benefits, let alone first rate medical care, while awaiting trial. That is bizarre.
I can't disagree with what you've said, but have you noticed that the only government entity that ever seems to get trimmed back is the military? I don't believe obama and the dims are trying for a leaner, meaner fighting machine.
Hollow Army II