AMERICA'S MILITARY TODAY: The Challenge of Militarism
Ensign, director of the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network, has compiled this primer for potential recruits and concerned citizens. Chapters by various contributors cover tactics used in recruitment and basic training, as well as the intricacies of policies on women and sexual harassment, minorities, "don't ask, don't tell" and exposure to hazardous materials. A 50-page compilation of letters from soldiers now serving in Iraq and their families makes up the book's third chapter of 10; chapters on "Military Justice: An Oxymoron?," a possible draft and the demographics of the infantry round things out. If it all sounds a little disjointed, that is because it is. Perhaps because of its many authors, the book lacks a common analytical thread, and there are far too many instances where Ensign or another contributor offers a litany of facts as if they speak for themselves. As the subtitle makes clear, Ensign sees many current practices as needing reform, and his analysis, when it occurs, is pitched toward mobilizing forces for change. While they may find it a challenge, dedicated readers will be able to use this book in that capacity or as a compendium of aspects of service that are less likely to be discussed by recruiters. (Nov.)
