The Military Joins the War on Drugs.
Abstract
The Department of Defense and military services have, since the passage of a 1981 congressional amendment to the Posse Comitatus Act, provided support to the law enforcement communities' efforts to reduce the flow of illicit drugs into the United States. This support role came about because Federal, State and local law enforcement agencies were overwhelmed technologically, financially, and numerically by drug smugglers. The threat narcotic traffickers pose is viewed as a threat to the national security of the United States. The military was seen as the only organization with the necessary equipment and skilled personnel to offset advantages the drug traffickers had in bringing their contraband into the country. However, arguments have been raised that the military support given to the law enforcement agencies detracts from its preparedness mission to defend the United States. Examination of the threat, the national strategies developed to combat the threat, the support thus far given by the military to law enforcement and the operations law enforcement agencies have conducted with military support show there is a proper role for the military in the war on drugs. This examination also shows that the preparedness of the military is being enhanced by carrying out the support mission. Thus, the military support provided to reduce the supply of drugs entering the United States has helped move the country a step closer to the objective of a drug free society.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 14, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA180209
Entities
People
- Michael S. Moseley
Organizations
- United States Army War College