Silent Crisis: The U.S. Military Decline No One Talks About
Oct 30, 2024
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Kurt Schlichter, a retired Army Colonel and author known for his novels, dives into the silent crisis affecting the U.S. military. He discusses the alarming shift from a warfare-focused culture to one prioritizing careers, emphasizing the importance of leadership and logistics in military readiness. With insights on the challenges of recruitment and modern military strategies, he critiques current foreign policy while advocating for citizen preparedness and the role of firearms in personal empowerment. Kurt's reflections balance humor with serious commentary on military culture.
The U.S. military's readiness for high-intensity warfare is declining, raising concerns about its ability to handle peer-to-peer conflicts effectively.
A significant decline in accountability within military leadership contrasts sharply with the standards set during World War II, affecting military effectiveness.
The ongoing recruitment crisis exacerbates a culture that discourages enlistment, particularly among individuals from traditional military families.
Deep dives
Readiness for High-Intensity Warfare
The current military readiness of the United States for high-intensity conventional warfare is questioned, especially in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Concerns are raised about the nation's ability to engage in peer-to-peer battles as adversaries demonstrate effective improvisation and adaptability on the battlefield. The discussion highlights the importance of flexibility and innovation in military tactics, reminiscent of strategies used by American forces in past conflicts. There is a growing fear that the U.S. is losing its edge in these areas, which could impact its performance in future wars.
Accountability in Military Leadership
A significant decline in accountability within military leadership is emphasized, with a comparison to past standards set by leaders like George Marshall during World War II. Today, senior leaders often go unpunished despite strategic failures, leading to a lack of responsibility among officials when mistakes occur. This decline in accountability is linked to a larger cultural shift in the military, where personal accountability and effective leadership are overshadowed by a fear of reprisal among officers. The discussion suggests that reinstating a culture of accountability is crucial for effective military operations and leadership.
Military Culture and Recruitment Challenges
The military is facing a significant recruitment crisis, driven by a culture that discourages potential enlistees, particularly among those from traditional military families. Concerns are raised about a perceived anti-military sentiment perpetuated by progressive leadership, which may lead to disillusionment among prospective recruits. The conversation emphasizes that many talented and capable individuals are opting out of military service due to a lack of accountability and the diminishing value placed on military careers. The narrative underscores the need for a cultural shift within both military and society to inspire young Americans to serve.
Importance of Logistics in Warfare
Logistics is identified as a critical, yet often overlooked, component of military success. The discussion highlights how well-managed logistical support enables effective military operations and the projection of power. It is pointed out that current logistical challenges put U.S. forces at a disadvantage, particularly concerning artillery munitions and resource allocation. The conversation advocates for a renewed focus on logistics as a means to ensure readiness and efficacy in potential future conflicts.
Citizen Responsibility and the Right to Bear Arms
The discussion emphasizes the importance of citizen responsibility, particularly the necessity for law-abiding citizens to be equipped to defend themselves and their rights. It underscores that the right to bear arms is essential not only for personal safety but also as a check against governmental overreach. The conversation critiques a growing tendency to view citizens as subjects rather than accountable individuals capable of defending their freedoms. This reflects a broader concern regarding civil liberties in the current sociopolitical climate, urging for recognition of the vital role that armed citizens play in maintaining a free and just society.
Kurt Schlichter is a lawyer, author, and retired Army Colonel. He served for 28 years in the Army and today is a weekly senior columnist for Townhall Media. He is also a TV commentator and the author of numerous books including the Kelly Turnbull series. His latest novel, THE ATTACK, is available now. After college, Kurt joined the United States Army and received his commission as a second lieutenant through Officer Candidate School. While stationed in West Germany, Kurt was deployed to Operation Desert Storm serving as a platoon leader. After leaving active duty, he joined the California Army National Guard and served in various command and staff positions. Kurt served in Kosovo and was mobilized for the Los Angeles riots, the Northridge earthquake, and the 2007 San Diego fires. He is a graduate of the Army’s Combined Arms Staff Service School and the Command and General Staff College and earned a Master of Strategic Studies degree from the United States Army War College. Kurt is a graduate of Loyola Law School, where he was a law review editor.
To learn more about Kurt, follow him on X @KurtSchlichter.
