Analysis of U.S. Military Mobilizations, Demobilizations, and Peacetime ForceMaintenance From 1890 to 1991

摘要

Military manpower management principles and policies are in constant flux as themilitary forces mobilize and demobilize during periods of war and peace. This study identifies trends in U.S. military manpower policies and procedures from 1890 to 1991. Major military conflicts reviewed are the Spanish-American War, World wars I and II, the Korean Conflict, the Vietnam War, and the Persian Gulf War. In all wars until Vietnam, post war active duty forces were larger than prewar forces. However, these active duty forces tended to be relatively small until the Cold War period. This tendency is driven by a combination of budget constraints and a U.S. aversion to maintaining large standing military forces. Before each major military conflict since 1890, active forces were maintained at minimum levels, thereby making mobilizations difficult and time consuming. After most of these wars, demobilizations were rapid, caused turmoil in the remaining force structures and reduced military effectiveness. Generally, the United States prefers to rely on volunteerism as its primary manpower procurement tool, however, conscription was implemented when volunteerism was insufficient to meet national needs.... History, Mobilization, Manpower, Military personnel.