The Use of Military Forces in Civil Disturbance

摘要

The United States of America is plagued with a number of small issues that are in themselves a sounding board for civil disturbances. Issues such as racial strife, war, labor disputes, police brutality, unemployment, and the cutback on many of the social programs are among a few that formulate the basis for very large numbers of people to congregate for discussion and/or demonstration. When agitated such a crowd could turn very quickly into a mob thereby creating an untenable situation for local and state law enforcement officials. Should this happen, the President is bound by the Constitution to protect the lives and property of citizens within that state. The use of federal forces to restore law and order then becomes inevitable and a national issue to be reckoned with. Neither the law nor existing military publications provides clear guidance as to a riot-torn area. When confronted with unarmed countrymen, women, and children--what shall we do--how well do we perform--to what limit should we go. The answer to these and other questions concerning this subject is vague. The student concludes that the subject of riot control, once a very integral part of Army doctrine and practice, should again become one of the mandatory subjects. (Author)