Re: Is an all volunteer army enough?

Description: Does it affect ability address threats and protect our interests?

Question: How does an all-volunteer military affect America’s ability to protect its interests?

Transcript: Well having been part of a military during the time of a draft, and then having been part of the Defense establishment when the All Volunteer Force was coming in, there is no question in my mind that the AVF is head and shoulders above a draft. These young men and women are fantastic. I don’t know if I’d have been worthy of them as a young officer. They’re that good. But we’re on the second . . . just starting the second generation of the All Volunteer Force. This is going to be a very interesting experience, and I don’t know how it’s going to . . . going to come out. Clearly having an all volunteer force is one of the things that has kept public scrutiny of the war down somewhat. I do think, having said that, that there is a place in our society for sort of mandatory service, not necessarily military service. Because I think it’s a good thing to give the country, and I think it’s a good leveler. People of all religions, races and creeds can come together, and sacrifice together, and give back to this country for a year or two. I think that would be a great thing, but I don’t foresee a return to the draft as being desirable or possible unless we were faced with a major catastrophe.

Question: What advice do you have for young people entering the armed forces?

Transcript: Oh I’d encourage them to do it. I’d be very enthusiastic about it. As I say, it is . . . The young men and women who go, they find that they’re part of something bigger than themselves. And I think this makes them, on the one hand, feel that they’re part of something worthwhile; but on the other hand realize that we’re all a part of something larger. And that when you see that you can do your part within that context, I think it makes you a better citizen all around. I think it shapes you very well for a future workforce.

Recorded on: 9/14/07