Defense spending has declined since the 1980s 1. Readiness will decline if funds are not increased for training and equipment. There are many long-term demands on U.S. troops, such as peacekeeping in the Balkans. If the budgets for foreign aid and diplomacy were more m balance with the military budget, there would be a better chance of preventing conflict and avoiding military involvement. The armed services have problems recruiting and retaining qualified personnel, due to low pay and benefits.
Some military personnel qualify for food stamps.
Enlisted men and women who are struggling to support their families should receive a fair wage and adequate housing and health care-as should all people who work. Money would be available for these needs if the Pentagon improved its financial management systems to reduce waste, fraud, and abuse and shifted money from weapons procurement to personnel. Increased spending will enable ailing defense contractors to keep their factories open, and retain jobs at military bases around the country. National security is our nation's first priority. National security means more than military power.