Do you think we can continue at this rate or higher for at least another ten years without having a draft?

Answer 1

At some point there won't be enough soldiers to maintain current levels due to attrition. Recruitment is down and only a true believer joins the National Guard now. On the other hand, considering how well things are going now, it's hard to imagine much difference if there were 150 troops there instead of 150 thousand.

Answer 2

Sure can. The annual enlistment and retention rates for all branches of the service remain at 100% or higher. But, we do need a raise in the manpower ceiling. That's the job of the Congress. From 1973 to 1991 we had an all-volunteer force during the Cold War and had no problem meeting the quotas. The one thing which can affect the numbers is an unremitting drum beat of people who preach retreat back into the homeland of all troops. That will show the next generation of potential warriors that it isn't worth the effort because the country is not behind that effort.
I think it's time to fish or cut bait. Either we want to maintain our armed forces and keep on guard about the threat of Salafist Jihadist attacks or we want to stick our heads in the sand and hope all the bad stuff just goes away.
As a military retiree I'm getting to a point where it doesn't matter one way or the other. If the people decide continuing to fight against the terrorists isn't worth it, so be it. I'll still know the check is getting deposited every month and that I stayed true to my pledge to defend the Constitution against all enemies foreign and domestic. If my fellow citizens abandon the troops and discount their struggle and bravery, I will counsel all of the young people I come in contact with to avoid enlisting at all since it will signal to me that the people are not worth defending.

Answer 3

10 years....no. If there wasnt a pullout on the horizon no troops would stay in the service.

Answer 4

Just extend the tours for the duration.