U.S. Military Spending

When I watch documentaries that question U.S. military spending being nearly half of the world’s total, I understand it academically and then think “hell yeah.” But to be fair, at least 90% of our expenditures are earmarked for corruption. In real terms, the U.S. military spends no more than other major powers. The corruption is what keeps the U.S. military engine running – there’s nothing we can do about that. Other than spend more, of course.

(Inspired by “Suicide Is Not Painless“. And, in this instance, it will bring on very few changes. The jury is out on whether I can take or leave it, presumably at the pleasure of the president.)

Let’s All Go to the Army!

9/11/07, 18:00 hours. Cold-called by Irvine-based U.S. Army recruiter. His dossier on me came from the university. Set up a meeting with him Thursday, 12:00 hours. Realized later the “coincidence” of being called on 9/11. It bothers me, but I’ll let it slide – you have to use the tools you have to fight a global war on terror.

He asked if I had graduated. I said yes, despite it not being official yet. First military cold-call since high school… are they going after college graduates, or did it just take them 8 years to get around to my name? I don’t intend to sign up, but I’m not wasting time. I don’t know anything about Army career options. I don’t know what incentives they’re offering. A handful of Generals have quit lately – maybe I can be one if I ace the entrance exam? The recruiter has information I want, and it’s his job to give it to me.

A full debriefing will follow, if I survive this mission…