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The Military Is Already Preparing For The Worst-Case Sequester Scenario
TBI ^ | 1-17-2013 | Paul Szoldra

Posted on 01/17/2013 3:42:17 PM PST by blam

The Military Is Already Preparing For The Worst-Case Sequester Scenario

Paul Szoldra
January 17, 2013

There's plenty of talk about the "fiscal cliff" -- which was avoided by a last-minute deal last month — but that only delayed a huge Pentagon fear: Sequestration.

What happens if the military is slapped with sequestration -- automatic budget cuts to the tune of about $500 billion over ten years?

The Defense Department is the biggest loser in the latest budget battle, and although Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta is hopeful about reaching an agreement, they still need to plan for the possibility, which left unchecked would hit in March.

"Indeed, we are seeing the formation of what I would call a perfect storm of budget uncertainty," Panetta said on Jan. 10. "With a sequester that could happen on March 1st, a continuing resolution that could simply be extended for the rest of this fiscal year, as opposed to having a defense appropriations bill adopted, and, thirdly, a debt ceiling crisis that could create even further turmoil that could impact on our budget and on our economy."

"And the fact is, looking at all three of those, we have no idea what the hell's going to happen."

The guidance from the Pentagon to all service branches is to give specific recommendations on what they can cut by Feb 1st. Here's the broader view from Panetta on what would happen if Congress does not act to avoid the sequester.

(Excerpt) Read more at businessinsider.com ...


TOPICS: News/Current Events
KEYWORDS: budgetcuts; military; sequestration; unemployment
"Civilian contractors would face serious cutbacks. The Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments estimates about 108,000 defense civilian employees could lose their jobs in 2013 if sequestration hits."
1 posted on 01/17/2013 3:42:24 PM PST by blam
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To: blam
So, correct me if I'm in error.

Was not the "sequester" the result of Mister Boehner's foolish gamble a couple of years back?

.

2 posted on 01/17/2013 3:48:54 PM PST by Seaplaner (Never give in. Never give in. Never...except to convictions of honour and good sense. W. Churchill)
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To: blam

Ya know, it might not be such a good idea for him to tick off the guys with the real automatic assault weapons.


3 posted on 01/17/2013 3:54:28 PM PST by bgill (We've passed the point of no return. Welcome to Al Amerika.)
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To: blam

Virtually all training that requires travel has been cancelled by SECAF. I’m hearing rumblings that they may cut annual tours as well.

Hugh and series, indeed...

Colonel, USAFR


4 posted on 01/17/2013 4:09:16 PM PST by jagusafr (the American Trinity (Liberty, In G0D We Trust, E Pluribus Unum))
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To: blam
Just what Obama promised the Chinese - about having more 'flexibility' after re-election.

Gut our military, shut down 95 percent of all defense spending - and presto - a defenseless United States.

BUT LETS KEEP THE MONEY FLOWING TO DEMOCRAT VOTERS ON MULTIPLE FORMS OF WELFARE!

WWIII will be upon us shortly - and this time the US loses - by design.

5 posted on 01/17/2013 4:39:40 PM PST by Ron C.
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To: Ron C.

Well, at least if we’re invaded we’ll have the means to defend ourselves...

Oh wait. I guess they’re trying to take that away from us too. Mehmed II is at the gates of Constantinople and Obama seems to be opening the gates himself so as to say “Come on in!”


6 posted on 01/18/2013 8:05:34 AM PST by MWS
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