[SamAdams76]

While I think Colonel Hackworth is being a little too critical of our Army, as a Parris Island Marine, I do agree that the U.S. Marine Corps has by far the most rigorous basic training of all the services. I've heard stories about Army basic training. It's basically a summer camp compared to what the Marines go through. And it makes all the difference!

[LS]

Many here were whining LOUDLY about the reduction (elimination?) of the tanks, and yet this is exactly what Hackworth points to as needed. I think a combination is appropriate, about 2/3 light vehicles and 1/3 tanks.

[fnord]

I went through Parris Island in 1975. That training has stuck with me ever since. I am now full-time Army National Guard (overweight with a silly beret, lol), and by what I hear from new recruits, I could easily go through Army basic training today. Aint NO WAY IN HELL I could make it through Marine boot camp today.

[Nineteen_Kilo]

When I was a soldier, I was an armor soldier (hence my 'nineteen_kilo' handle). Despite my love for armored warfare, I think Hack has it about right: we need to be able to grapple with the enemy swiftly and violently, around the globe. For that, masses of armor just won't cut it. I suspect that we should rely more on attack helicopters for the 'speed and shock' role that was the domain of armor in the wars of the 20th century.

Thank God for the United States Marines.