The Military and the War on Drugs. What Can Be Done at the Installation Level
Abstract
With the current problems in our schools and communities involving use of illegal drugs the Department of Defense as a public resource is being asked to play a larger role in a mission that is both unfamiliar and undefined. The full scope of the part we are to play is still being determined but it is unclear that the President expects full cooperation from the U.S. Armed Forces, both active and reserve. Most efforts to data involving the military have been directed toward the immediate goals of reducing the flow of drugs at the source and in transit. The level of authority and action has been primarily at the major command level with few actions directed toward base, post, or station activities, except when specialized assets are needed. This study looks at some of the problems encountered by State and local authorities in their flight against drugs and assesses what special capabilities military members developed in their efforts to rid the military of drugs that can be applied to local community programs. This study further examines several relatively minor changes of emphasis or mission priority that if established may help local apprehending drug smugglers and dealers. Eight recommendations are offered that if implemented will involve members of the Armed Forces directly in the current laws. The outcome should be a more involved military and a sounder national drug program.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 02, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA222287
Entities
People
- Lance L. Smith
Organizations
- United States Army War College