AMERICA'S TOTAL FORCE: Can Army Reserve Components Adequately Support theNational Military Strategy of the 1990s

摘要

Representing over fifty percent of the deployable forces in the US Army, reservecomponents are relied on today, more than at any other time in this country's history, to shoulder a crucial share of the nation's defense. This paper reviews the origins of Secretary of Defense Melvin Laird's Total Force and tracks its development through the 1970s and 1980s until its 'final examination' during Operation DESERT STORM. It also examines Active Component initiatives undertaken to enhance the viability of reserve forces and the recent designation of select RC units as early wartime deployers. The author then addresses several recurring and unresolved maladies that face reserve commanders, tying their hands in the struggle with unit readiness. He finally presents recommendations that would remedy many of these reserve-unique issues.