All That We Can Be?

April 4, 2008 -- This week Opportunity 08 takes a closer look at closer look at how the next president should ensure the military remains ready and capable.

Gen. David Petraeus and Ambassador Ryan Crocker are expected to testify this week that security in Iraq has improved due to the recent troop buildup, bolstered by new National Intelligence Estimate findings that slow and steady progress is being made. Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Robert Gates has announced that the U.S. will send more troops to Afghanistan. With long-term engagement of troops overseas, the next commander-in-chief will face the challenge of maintaining progress and ensuring the military isn't stretched too thin.

Without plans for adequately filling the armed force's personnel and equipment needs, says military expert Peter W. Singer, the next President could risk breaking an already stressed military.

"The U.S. military's ability to field sufficient, high-quality, well-equipped forces is at a 'tipping point.' It is certainly far from broken, but warning symptoms are clearly mounting," says Singer, who is senior fellow at the Brookings Institution. "Small compromises—such as accepting gaps in personnel and equipment—are beginning to have huge consequences."Singer addressed military readiness at an Opportunity 08 event in Miami with University of Miami President Donna Shalala and former presidential advisor Kenneth Duberstein.Singer cited downward trends in recruiting and retention contributing to strain on the military. He says the next president must alleviate troop pressures, but keep troop quality high.

Worn-out equipment and equipment shortages also weaken the armed forces, adds Singer, further challenging an administration that will inherit economic woes. Says Singer, "The next President should follow Congress's bipartisan recommendation that future defense budgets include funds for predictable wartime spending."

A proposal for adequately filling the military's personnel and equipment needs is available at www.opportunity08.org.