How do you feel about Blackwater?

Question

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blackwater_USA

This basically amounts to U.S. Civilians out of uniform taking up arms and fighting in Iraq. Yes, most were military at one time. I haven't seen any footage of them actually shooting anyone. There is one on YOU TUBE that's supposed to be them, but it's all focusing on the sniper so it could be fake.

I'd like to hear pros and cons of "Security" forces. It seems borderline mercenary and it's wrapped up in charges of war profiteering.

Answer 1

A contracted civilian security forces does have advantages. They can be more flexible than state military forces and can free sodiers to do more important tasks. However coalition forces should not grow too dependant on them. A soldier must stay at his post or be court martialed and sent to prison. A civilian contractor may see little to no disciplinary action apart from losing his job.

Answer 2

Go to their facility in North Carolina and train and make your own assessment. When you meet these folks in action, you will be amazed. Even the guy in the armory issuing ammo has the ability to slit your throat with a drinking straw while never removing the cigarette from his lips.
As for the money, go put your a** on the line every day and try to put a price on it......and you will see why they get paid. Its a miracle any of them can even dream of getting life insurance!

Answer 3

I was in the military, and when i went to Iraq i made $30,000 in a year. Black water tried to recruit me, offering me $160,000 a year because i was a medic. From a militray point of view, I am glad they are there, becuase we are getting killed over there due to the geneva conventions and our other force protection rules. Blackwater saved me and my patients when we were hit by a roadside bomb and engaged. i say Hooah, and keep rocking!