The number of soldiers forced to remain in the military past their enlistment period under the government's "stop-loss" program will be cut in half within 15 months under a plan that will virtually eliminate the practice within two years, the Defense Department said Wednesday.
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said the military would use involuntary retentions only in extraordinary situations and would turn to incentive programs to encourage people to extend their enlistments.
The announcement came on the same day veterans cheered a White House move away from a proposal that would shift responsibility for veterans healthcare onto insurance companies. Veterans groups feared the proposal could result in higher healthcare costs and cuts in service.
The number of soldiers forced to remain in the military past their discharge dates hit a peak of nearly 16,000 in winter 2005. The number was about 13,000 in January, the latest figures available.
Very Good Move.
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"A computer lets you make more mistakes faster than any invention in human history - with the possible exceptions of handguns and tequila." - unknown
Agreed, it's a good move. But I think it's largely unnecessary. I think the issue would have solved itself without intervention. The Army's ability to retain qualified people should increase in relatively equal proportion to the 2009 job losses in the private sector.
I believe people will elect to stay on active duty because they're afraid of not finding a job if they get out. Also, recruiting efforts will be cut back as more people see the military as a secure (and for some, relatively lucrative) career option.
In addition, I think it's only a matter of time before more vet benefits get the axe.
In addition, I think it's only a matter of time before more vet benefits get the axe.
I don't think so. I think the Vets showed their strength this week.
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"A computer lets you make more mistakes faster than any invention in human history - with the possible exceptions of handguns and tequila." - unknown
Well most service member sign for a 4 year enlistment + 4 year IRR inactive ready reserve, which means they can be recalled anyway. So they get out return home then receive orders recalling to active service!
I'm glad stop loss is going away but as you see there is another way
Vet benefits are an easy target. There are a great deal of vets, but most vets are young, healthy, and able to earn their own living. Many other entitlement recipients are not (i.e. Medicare and Social Security).
I believe that as wages continue to dry up -- and tax revenues along with them -- vet benefit programs will be on top of the list of programs to cut.
Disclaimers: I'm not a fan of ANY programs. As far as my VA benefits go, I did use the GI Bill, and I am still holding my housing guarantee in reserve.
I'm surprised the housing guarantee still exists, BTW.
Last edited by kathrynhr; 03-19-2009 at 02:26 PM..
Army's Stop Loss program to be phased out.
