This is the story of the development of an all volunteer United States Army. It chronicles the historical protests against the draft and policy changes proposed during the Vietnam War. It also shows how this major change in an American institution occurred alongside significant changes in a mainstream American culture fighting to come to terms with racial inequalities, women's rights, civil rights and gay rights. Baily discusses how an American volunteer force comes to be looked at as an employer, and how this new status requires the Army to market itself and compete for labor. At the same time, these internal challenges do not negate the Army's need to be prepared to carry out its work effectively--to defend the nation and fight overseas. This social history paints a picture of the complexities faced by the Army at its leadership levels as well as pressures felt by the rank and file. A must read.This book can be found in HECSA Library:
America's Army: Making the All-Volunteer Force
Beth Bailey
UB 323 .B35 2009
