If we have 1.2 million military forces stationed all over the world how are we over extended?

Question

In todays world, where we can fly personell and equipment anyplace anytime why do the Liberals say we are overextended?

Before you exhibit any more ignorance read Shawns answer!

Answer 1

You are correct, only about 120k out of the million or so are deployed to Iraq. Then 20k to afganistan. There are plenty of troops, otherwise there wouldn't be a need for BRAC still. My unit is getting cut in half, and they are asking for people to early retire, or get out. I have no idea why the liberals think we dont have enough, unless they are trying to eaither justify a draft, or start a new war somewhere. As usual people think we are unprotected here, but really, there is more resources here still than there is in Iraq, go figure..

Answer 2

Because you have to look at it besides from a number view.
As you have said, we have many military forces stationed all over the world but they are there for a reason, is that so we actually CAN fly personnel and equipment anywhere we want. And we do have bindings with some countries to have them and we actually don't want to lose them so we aren't doing to just leave the bases and say, "Don't Disturb, Be back later."
They are bases that are suppose to be manned and taken care of.

Answer 3

We don't have enough time between combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan for the troops to be rested and reequipped. Also with all the troops being used over there we don't have enough units left to deal with any other hot spots that could arise in other parts of the world

Answer 4

Bill Clinton cut the military by 1/3, men and machines.
the army lost 6 Divisions alone.

Answer 5

moving troops isn't as easy as clicking a button.. it appears you have no concept of what it would actually take to move troops.... although yes, it is easier than it once was.. you have to have housing for the troops, you have to fuel the move, you have to have a food supply, you have to have the equipment to move masses.. and the bigger the unit used to move them.. the slower it will move.. and the smaller the unit used.. the less cost efficient it is... to quickly move troops and their equipment from location to location isn't practical with todays US military.. plus, how many troops do we have here at home.. not that many.. they are out policing the world.

Answer 6

Good point. Makes you wonder why Bush is talking about enlarging the armed forces, doesn't it?

Thanks for the input; it's always good to hear from you active duty soldiers.

Answer 7

Its not all gravy you try traveling 24 hours straight, and fly straight into the next day, and be ready to fight.

Answer 8

We are overextended because all of our troops are overseas, leaving no one to protect our country.