War has changed a lot; what was a young man’s game fifty years ago has morphed technologically into something different altogether. While select units might require youth & stamina, more and more of wars are waged from behind computer consoles.
I think these things are being re-examined (in both the public & private sector) as people live longer, and to pay a retiree for thirty years after they’ve worked twenty isn’t economically feasible. As with so many programs, everybody wants the best benefits but nobody wants to foot the bill.
In the same realm the number of vets being buried in veterans cemeteries is dropping off. WW2 had the highest modern times number eligible and most WW2 vets are gone. Korea and Nam Vets will be next. The eligibility is simple for a VA operated or subsidized cemetery. 180 days active duty minimal with an Honorable Discharge. The Civil War up to WW2 had the highest number of vets in these cemeteries. So despite what congresspersons Wiz on military & vets say the money saving nonsense at expense of Vets the cost have been going down and reductions made.
WRT “While select units might require youth & stamina, more and more of wars are waged from behind computer consoles” do you speak from experience?
Battle rattle,160 degree black bulb temps, lousy sleep, food, stress and the fact that steel is currently undefeated in the war against flesh are things young men deal with best. In fact, check out the USAF retention issues with the drone pilots for an example of what happens even to “computer warriors” fighting in the Mideast from a seat in Nevada.